What Is a Butt Plug? What It Does and How to Use One

The anus is full of nerve endings, so a plug creates a feeling of fullness and pressure that many people find pleasurable on its own or during other sex. For people with a prostate, a plug can press on it indirectly; for people with a vagina, it can add a sense of tightness during vaginal sex or with a vibrator. Some people also use graduated plug sets to get comfortable with larger toys over time.

The rectum can draw objects inward. A flared base, wider than the plug itself, keeps the toy from slipping in all the way. Never use anything for anal play that does not have one. Small vibrators, eggs and household objects are not safe substitutes.

• Size: the widest diameter matters most. For a first plug, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) or less at the widest point is a common starting size.
• Neck: a thin neck is more comfortable to wear for longer.
• Material: body-safe silicone is soft and slightly flexible; glass and stainless steel are firm, smooth and can be warmed or cooled. All three are non-porous and easy to clean.
• Base: a T-shaped or curved base is comfortable between the cheeks if you want to wear it while moving around.

Compare diameters, insertable length and materials in butt plugs.

• Go to the bathroom first if it helps you relax, and trim fingernails if you use your fingers.
• Use plenty of lube on the plug and the anus. Thicker water-based gels work well; use water-based lube with silicone plugs.
• Relax and breathe. Press the tip gently against the opening and let your body open up rather than pushing hard.
• Insert slowly until the widest part passes and the neck settles in. A little pressure is normal; pain is a sign to stop or go smaller.
• Start with short sessions. To remove, relax, breathe out and pull slowly by the base.
• Never move a toy from anal to vaginal use without washing it or changing the condom on it first.

Wash the plug with warm water and mild unscented soap or a toy cleaner after every use and let it dry fully. Silicone, glass and steel plugs without electronics can usually be boiled for a few minutes; check the maker's instructions first. See how to clean sex toys.