While dildos and vibrators are increasing in popularity amongst the sex-toy-curious, anal toys continue to face stigma and/or confusion amongst all demographics. The truth is, butt play is accessible pleasure for people of all genders. And anal beads in particular are an ideal starter toy, because, according to POPSUGAR’s A Beginner’s Guide to Anal Beads, “they’re flexible, simple, and intuitive to use.”
Quoting sexologist, Megwyn White, director of education at Satisfyer, POPSUGAR recommends that users think of anal beads as “supporting role” for other sex or masturbation acts.
“In other words, anal beads are best when used in an ensemble of other sexual sensations, like clitoral stimulation, oral sex, or internal vaginal sex,” says POPSUGAR.
“The anus is a storehouse of pleasure and a primal resource for a deep release,” White affirms. “Getting acquainted with its pleasure can open up a whole new dimension of sensual intimacy.”
What are anal beads?
Anal beads are a string of beads fitted to a flexible cord. Usually, the smallest beads are at the bottom of the cord, so that the user can increase in size as they take more of the cord. Most beads are perfectly round, but they can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including some oval shapes, which can provide “more ease upon insertion,” according to therapist and sexologist Joy Berkheimer, LMFT.
Anal beads can be made of any sex-safe material, such as glass or metal, but the most popular by far is silicone, Berkheimer says. All three provide unique sensations, according to POPSUGAR: “Silicone is the most flexible, but glass and metal are more rigid, which some prefer. Additionally, if you enjoy the coolness of metal or glass, you might prefer those options over silicone. From a safety standpoint, all three materials are nonporous and very easy to keep clean.”
As with butt plugs, the only non-negotionable feature of anal beads is that there is a stopper bead or ring, which prevents the device from being lost in the anal cavity.
“The anus has a natural suction effect, and if an object is inserted, and it does not have a flared base, it can easily slip inside and get stuck. This can be dangerous and cause injury to the body,” says White.
But unlike butt plugs, which station inside the anus, the unique pleasure of anal beads is they’re being pulled and pushed inside the body.
“Just as popping bubbles is a satisfying experience, removing each bead can create a pleasurable ‘pop’ or subtle stretching sensation that builds up toward a satisfying climax,” White says.
As you or your partner are approaching orgasm, Berkheimer suggests that “Strategically pulling the beads out at the right time intensifies the possibilities of some of the most pleasurable sensations you’ve experienced.”
If you do intend to try anal beads with a partner, be sure to communicate with them ahead of time and consider the use of safe words to determine how deep the beads should go in the moment.
As POPSUGAR says, “Ultimately, make sure you and your partner are on the same page about trying anal beads, and never feel any pressure to try butt play if it’s not exciting to you.”
After communication is established, Berkheimer says that the next most important thing you can do is relax. Ease into anal play by starting with foreplay. When you’re ready, begin the anal play with a finger and massage the inside of the cavity.
Then, lube!!!! Any lube is fine, but silicone-based lubes are generally recommended for anal play, as they “provide a thicker and smoother barrier,” Berkheimer says. That is, unless your toy is made out of silicone, in which case, choose a water-based lube, because silicone-based lube can have the adverse effect of breaking down the silicone toy.
Next, “apply lubricant liberally on the tip and down the length of the toy, as well as on the anal opening itself,” Berkheimer says. Insert slowly and to the desired length.
POPSUGAR says: “When you’ve found a comfortable stopping point (remember, you don’t have to insert the full length of beads!), try gentle motions with the anal beads, either up and down or in and out. If you prefer no motion, that’s perfectly OK too.”
If at any point you feel discomfort, STOP.
“Then, take some deep breaths, move to another activity, and wait until you are fully comfortable to try and use them again. Anal penetration should never hurt. The point is pleasure, so stop and check in with your partner if that’s what’s occurring,” Berkheimer says.
A note of caution from POPSUGAR: “When combining anal and vaginal play, always make sure to avoid exposing the vagina to the anus’s bacteria,” says POPSUGAR. “As a standard rule, never touch the vulva with your hands or a toy after it’s come in contact with the anus. Likewise, you should never share your anal beads with multiple partners, says White. Best practice means you’ll have a set of anal beads for your personal use and your partner’s personal use.”
And remember to clean your toys after every use! Berkheimer recommends boiling your beads in water for up to five minutes.
Read POPSUGAR’s full guide here.
