Posted by TooTimid Staff on 6/11/2008 to Info on Sex Toys

What are anal toys?
In the most basic form, anal toys are adult toys that are used to stimulate the nerve endings that are associated with the anus and rectum. These toys are commonly referred to as butt plugs, anal beads, anal dildos, and anal vibrators. Anal toys give us the opportunity to explore the high concentration of nerve endings in the rectum as well as the prostate. Many of us were raised with the belief that the anus is a dirty and taboo environment, but few of us were taught that the anus is also an erogenous zone for both women and men.

How do I use anal toys?
Most importantly you want to use a toy that has some sort of handle or base that will not allow the toy to completely penetrate your anus. Never use any sharp objects in and or around your anus. Then you will need to relax and make sure that you use plenty of lubricant. The most popular lubricants that we have are here. Be sure to take it slow and easy while trying to follow the natural path of your rectum as you insert the toys. If there is pain beyond what you would expect, remove the object and try again later when you can relax more. Finally, if you are going to be sharing the toys with other people be sure to place a condom over the toy and change the condom when switching it between people.

What are anal beads?
The most basic way I can explain what anal beads are is to have you think of marbles that are attached to a string. Typical anal beads will have anywhere from 5 to 12 beads that are all connected via a string or a rubber cord. The diameter of the beads normally range from 1/8th of an inch up to a full inch. To get a better understanding of what anal beads look like, take a peek at the Crystal Beads. When using anal beads, be sure to lubricate both the beads and the anus. One by one insert the beads into your anus. Once you have inserted them all, or as many as you are comfortable with, remove one or two beads or the entire strand by pulling on the handle. This feeling of removing the beads will produce an intense and pleasurable sensation.

What are anal dildos?
Anal dildos are dildos that are designed specifically for the anus. While any dildo could be inserted into the anus, anal dildos are generally a little bit more slim, thus enabling greater comfort. In addition to being a bit more slim, they will often have some sort of handle or wide base to prevent them from completely entering the anus. A very popular anal dildo that vibrates as well is the Anal Ecstasy. If you are interested in something a little more basic, you should take a look at the Puregel Plunger. As with anal beads, if you are going to be sharing your anal dildo with others, be sure to place a condom over the dildos and change the condom when exchanging it between partners.

What is a butt plug?
A butt plug is typically made out of a rubber or jelly-like material. Normally these plugs are 3-6 inches long and ½ of an inch to 2 inches in width. To get a basic idea of the design and shape of a butt plug take a look at this soft, pliable plug. Your basic butt plug is non-vibrating and made of rubber. For those of you that are looking for a plug that is more appealing to the eyes, you should look at the jelly butt plugs. If you want to take it to the next level to add lots of excitement to anal play, I would highly recommend the vibrating butt plugs.

What sort of anal toys should I shop for?
The most important factor to remember when shopping for a sex toy is to select something that is a realistic size for inserting into your anus. Do not buy something huge. Secondly, you want to select a toy that meets your needs. Are you looking for something that will give you the sensation of being full? Are you looking for something that you know is there, but it is slim and un-intrusive? Are you looking for something that gives you multiple entry and exit sensations? Whatever you choose, especially if you are a beginner, be sure to select something that is not hard, spiked, or the size of a fist. You do want to look for anal toys that have handles or large bases to ensure that they do not get lodged in the rectum, toys that are pliable and soft to the touch, and finally toys that are sturdy (not hard) so that they can be easily inserted.

View our complete anal toys section here.