Safety Concerns When Using Anal Toys
Anal play can carry some risks, including injury and infection. Preparing correctly for anal play is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Consider the following safety tips:
Use Body-Safe Materials
As mentioned, choose a toy made from body-safe materials to avoid infections and other health issues. Toys made from non-porous materials like silicone, glass, or stainless steel are less likely to harbor bacteria and can be easily cleaned and sterilized. On the other hand, toys made from porous materials like jelly or rubber can absorb bacteria and other substances, increasing the risk of infection and other health issues.
Clean The Area
Before using an anal toy, thoroughly cleaning the area around the anus is essential. You can use warm water, mild soap, or a specially-formulated anal cleansing product. Some people also like to use an enema or anal douche to clean the area further and reduce the risk of fecal matter or bacteria.
Don’t Share Toys
It’s crucial to remember not to share your anal toys with anyone else. Sharing toys, even if both parties are clean, can increase the risk of infection as it can introduce bacteria. It’s also important to note that you can’t wholly sterilize some anal toys, so sharing can pose a health risk.
Always Use Plenty Of Lube
Lubrication is essential when it comes to anal play. The anus doesn’t naturally produce its lubricant like the vagina, so it’s necessary to use plenty of water-based lubricants to reduce friction and prevent tearing or injury. Make sure to apply plenty of lube to the toy and the anus, and consider reapplying as needed throughout the session. Avoid using oil-based or silicone-based lubricants, as they can break down the toy’s material and increase the risk of infection.
Gradually Work Your Size Up
It’s important to start small when experimenting with anal toys, especially if you’re new to anal play. Begin with a small toy, like a finger-sized butt plug, and gradually move to more sizeable toys. Starting with a smaller anal toy allows your body to adjust to the sensations and helps prevent discomfort or injury. There are some perfect anal trainer kits you can try, like the Frisky Pleasure 3 Piece Sexy Butt Plug Kit.
Use Toys with A Flared Base
Anal toys should always have a flared base to prevent getting lost inside the rectum, for example like the Nexus Ace Remote Vibrating Butt Plug. The rectum is a vacuum-like space, and toys without a flared base can easily get sucked up inside, leading to an embarrassing and potentially dangerous situation.
Take Your Time
Anal play requires preparation, so it’s essential to take the time to get aroused and relaxed. You should never rush anal play. Take your time and go slow to prevent injury and discomfort. Always listen to your body, and don’t push yourself beyond your comfort level. If something feels uncomfortable or painful, stop immediately and remove the toy.
Use Protection
If you’re engaging in partnered play, use protection such as a condom to reduce the risk of STIs and bacterial infections. Using protection is especially important if you switch between anal and vaginal penetration.
Communicate with Your Partner
Communication is vital to a safe and pleasurable anal play experience. If you’re engaging in anal play with a partner, it’s essential to communicate openly and honestly about your needs and desires. Discuss what feels good and doesn’t, and use safe words or signals if something is uncomfortable or painful.
Overall, preparing correctly for anal play can reduce the risk of injury, infection, or discomfort and lead to a more enjoyable and satisfying experience. Don’t rush the process, listen to your body, and always prioritize safety and communication.