Wellness

How to Use Anal Beads: 6 Tips for Trying Anal Beads

Written by MasterClass

Last updated: Jun 7, 2021 • 3 min read

If you’re interested in exploring new sensations during sex, consider incorporating anal play into your sex life. Anal beads are a great option for beginners.

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What Are Anal Beads?

Anal beads are a sex toy with spheres that run in a series along a cord. They are designed to stimulate the sensitive nerve endings inside the anus. The best anal beads are typically made with a non-porous material like silicone, glass, or stainless steel, and they have a handle like a flared base or a loop to ensure that the toy doesn’t accidentally slip inside your rectum.

6 Tips for Using Anal Beads

Consider these tips before trying anal beads:

  1. 1. Choose the right anal beads for you. Anal beads come in different materials, shapes, and sizes. Do your research to find the set of anal beads that suits your preferences. Silicone toys with softer spheres are usually best for beginners. Start by using a smaller set with beads that increase in size along the string. Some anal beads include a vibration setting.
  2. 2. Maintain good hygiene practices. Attention to hygiene is especially important with any form of anal play. Without proper care, bacteria that naturally live inside your colon can spread to your genitalia or your mouth, causing an infection. Wash your anal beads before and after each use with warm water and mild soap or sex toy cleaner.
  3. 3. Use plenty of lube. Your anus does not naturally produce lubrication, so lots of lube is a must for anal play. Use your finger to apply a generous amount of lubricant around and inside your anus. Carefully rub lube onto every bead. Re-apply regularly. Choose a type of lubricant that works for you. Water-based lubricants are safe for use with silicone and latex toys. Silicone-based lube lasts longer, but avoid using silicone lube with silicone sex toys, as it may cause the sex toy to deteriorate.
  4. 4. Try anal beads during masturbation. Get comfortable with your new anal beads by using them during a masturbation session. This allows you to go slow and experiment with sensations that feel good to your body. After applying lots of lube, gently insert the beads into your anus one by one. Your sphincter muscles may tighten at first, so give yourself a moment to relax after the insertion of each bead. Try doing deep breathing exercises for additional relaxation. Once the anal beads are fully inserted, focus on your other erogenous zones. If your masturbation session builds to a climax, try pulling out the anal beads right as you orgasm for a series of pleasurable sensations. Unlike butt plugs and dildos, anal beads are specifically designed to stimulate your nerves upon removal.
  5. 5. Combine anal beads with other sexual acitivites. Once you are comfortable with your anal beads, explore using them with a partner. Experiment with different positions. For vulva-owners, anal beads can create the feeling of double penetration. Try using your anal beads with other sex toys like bullet vibrators or dildos for additional stimulation. Remember that the sensation of anal beads is enhanced by removal during orgasm.
  6. 6. Communicate clearly. When using anal beads with a partner, be sure to communicate what feels good and what doesn’t. Keep in mind that you can stop at any time. You need consent for any form of sexual activity with a partner, including anal bead play. Remember that using anal beads does not mean that anal sex is on the table. Each individual sex act requires consent.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your masturbation sessions or try something new with your partner, anal beads are a fun and accessible introduction into anal stimulation. If you are new to anal toys, you might also consider other kinds of anal sex toys like butt plugs, dildos, and prostate massagers.

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