Why more and more women are discovering butt plugs

For some, still exciting territory, for others a steady favorite in the bedroom. What was once considered a niche, is increasingly moving to mainstream. And to be fair: that’s not without reason. This little toy can add a whole new dimension to your sexual experience, both solo and with a partner. But what is it that makes butt plugs so interesting? And more importantly: how do you find out if it’s for you?

What exactly is a butt plug?

A butt plug is an anal toy designed to be inserted comfortably and stay in place. It often has a narrow neck and a wider base, so it can be used safely. Unlike a dildo, for example, it’s not about movement, but about the sensation of fullness and pressure. And it’s precisely that sensation which can be surprisingly intense.

Why it can be so exciting

The body is full of nerve endings, also around and inside the anus. When you stimulate these in a calm and relaxed way, this can lead to heightened sensitivity throughout your entire body. Many women experience that other touches become more intense, simply because their body is already “on”.

So it’s not about one specific point, but about the overall feeling. The combination of tension, relaxation and curiosity.

As is often the case with sexuality: it’s just as much in your head as in your body. Fantasy, expectation and sexual triggers play a major role in how you experience something.

Choice stress? Keep it simple

If you start, you want to make things as easy as possible for yourself. Go for a small size with a smooth finish. Silicone often works best, because it feels soft and flexible and moves better with your body.

Always pay attention to the basics. A butt plug should have a clear stopper, so that it stays in place securely. This isn’t an extra, but a necessity. A good stopper prevents your evening from ending up in an ER room.

Lubricant is just as important. The anus doesn’t produce its own moisture, so without lubricant it quickly becomes rough and uncomfortable. Preferably choose water-based lubricant, especially in combination with silicone toys, as it ensures a smooth and safe experience.

Plug it right: how to get started

If you are curious about butt plugs, it’s crucial to start small. Literally. Choose a small size and take the time to discover what feels comfortable.

Relaxation is essential. If you are tense, your body automatically tenses up too and so does your anus. This doesn’t only make insertion more difficult, but it can hurt too. And pain is counterproductive. For most people, your body blocks as soon as pain occurs and the experience is no longer pleasant.

Do you notice that it’s not going smoothly or that it’s becoming sensitive? Then that’s not the time to push through, but to stop. Just let it go and try again another time, when your body is relaxed.

Did you know this about butt plugs?

• Anal toys are among the fastest-growing sex toy category worldwide. Curiosity is increasingly winning out over taboo.

• Silicone is the most popular material. Not because it sounds exciting, but simply because it’s the most comfortable and safe.

• In countries like the US, thousands of people are treated in the ER every year for stuck objects. In a majority of cases this is related to toys without a proper stopper.

• Closer to home, people also talk openly about this. For example, writer Lale Gül also shared that she once ended up in the emergency room after using a sex toy. Remarkable, how her openness generated so many negative reactions, which we think was completely unjustified.

Solo or together?

Using it alone gives you the space to calmly discover what you like. You get to learn your own body and set your own pace. Using it together adds an extra dimension. It can be playful, exciting or intimate. Think of wearing it during foreplay or as a subtle addition during penetrative sex. 

As with anything new: talking helps. Discuss what you want to try and what your limits are.

Is it something for you?

Do you hate the idea? Then just stay away from it for now. Are you actually curious or does the idea excite you? Then the time’s right to give it a try.