Fact Sheet - Anal Play For many people, anal stimulation can be a great turn-on. The anus and rectum of both sexes are packed with sensitive nerve endings. As a result this may be your most highly charged erogenous zone. This Fact Sheet explores the many kinds of sex toy that are available for anal stimulation in men and women. It is not a guide to anal sex, although we start with a few basic recommendations. How to Enjoy Anal Stimulation • Do use lubrication - The anus does not, unlike the vagina, produce lots of lubrication naturally. Therefore we strongly recommend that all anal play includes liberal application of a sexual lubricant. Thick water-based or pure silicone lubricants are ideal. If using condoms, make sure the lubricant is condom-compatible. • Do relax completely – The sphincter, the muscle surrounding the anus, is usually quite tight. To gain maximum enjoyment from anal stimulation you will need to be completely relaxed. • Do wash thoroughly – Even consider using an anal douche. Cleanliness is important and being 'sparkly clean' is both preferable from a hygienic perspective and probably more enjoyable. • Don't mix vaginal and anal play - It is easy to transfer bacteria from one to the other so we recommend that you keep anal and vaginal play to separate sessions. • Do stop if you feel uncomfortable - The anus is very sensitive and if you feel discomfort or pain stop right away. Most likely it will be due to lack of lubrication or not being relaxed. • Do clean toys carefully - The anal area is more likely to harbor bacteria and therefore we recommend that you use a toy cleaner that includes anti-bacterial protection. Choosing an Anal Toy The guide below will help you understand what choices are available and how to use the toys. If you are just starting with anal toys we recommend that you purchase a small, nonvibrating anal plug and some anal beads. If you enjoy the experience - start to experiment. Don't forget the lubricant! Anal Beads Used for thousands of years, anal beads are used to intensify your orgasm. There are many varieties, but all include a number of 'beads' attached to a string or plastic stalk. The beads may be graduated in size or similar sized. Anal beads are carefully inserted into the anus prior to intercourse, and then pulled out at the moment of orgasm. Many people report a heightened and more intense orgasmic experience. Anal Plugs (also called Butt Plugs) Anal plugs are designed to be inserted into the anus and left there for a period of time often during regular intercourse. Anal plugs come in all shapes and sizes and both vibrating and non-vibrating varieties. You can also find inflatable plugs that a be inserted and then 'pumped up' to the desired size. Most anal plugs are made of rubber or silicone, but you can also purchase plugs in acrylic, glass and stainless steel! All good anal plugs have a narrow neck and a flange base. This ensures that the sphincter muscle sits around the base and the plug will not be 'lost' inside the anus. Prostate Stimulation Men may find that stimulation of the prostate gland – just inside the anus towards the front of the body - is sexually exciting. Some anal plugs have a deliberate curve to ensure that the prostate gland is massaged as the body moves. Dildos and Vibrators Most regular dildos and vibrators can be used for anal use. You may find that on standard models the 'head' is too wide for easy insertion. Until you have more experience, look for dildos and vibrators that are specially designed with thinner heads for progressive insertion. Acrylic and glass dildos are being produced in many wonderful designs that are particularly suited to anal play. Anal dildos and vibrators are generally used with a thrusting action to simulate insertion of a penis. They are a more 'active' toy than an anal plug which is often inserted and then left in place. Double Penetrators If you enjoy vaginal and anal stimulation at the same time then choose a double penetrator. These usually vibrate for added pleasure. Other anal toys Toys manufacturers are creative and have developed many other toys for anal stimulation. This includes anal vibrating wands, vibrating beaded rods, anal skewers and more.