So you’ve heard of butt plugs and are now wondering “Okay, what is a butt plug exactly? What do they do?”

Essentially, a butt plug is a sex toy designed for anal play and/or anal training. (More on this below.)

In this article, we'll explore the role of butt plugs, and why people enjoy using them. Whether you're curious about trying a butt plug for the first time or simply want to learn more about this popular sex toy, read on to discover everything you need to know about butt plugs.

What Is A Butt Plug?

Butt plugs are a type of sex toy that is designed to be inserted into the anus to enhance sexual pleasure. They are typically made of materials such as silicone, glass, or metal, and come in a variety of sizes and shapes to suit different preferences and levels of experience. Some are remote controlled and vibrate like Leo and others don’t.

The basic design of a butt plug is a tapered shape that widens as it moves towards the base, which is flared to prevent the plug from being ‘sucked’ all the way inside the anal cavity, or rectum. The plug is inserted into the anus and left in place for a period of time, which can range from a few minutes to several hours.

The Role of the Butt Plug

Butt plugs are used by people of all sexes and genders to enhance sexual pleasure, like other types of sex toys (vibrators, dildos, etc.), and they are also used for anal training (the gradual process of training anal muscles to stretch to accommodate penetration from a toy or penis).

What Do Butt Plugs Do?

The anus, or butthole, is highly innervated, there are tons of nerve endings in a highly concentrated area. These nerve endings send signals to the brain and tell you when you’re feeling pleasure (or alternatively, discomfort or pain).

For Penis Owners

The only way to stimulate the prostate is through anal play (by way of the anterior wall). The prostate gland is found in the male reproductive system and is frequently called ‘the male g-spot’ because its stimulation can lead to a more intense type of orgasm.

For Vulva Owners

These folks do not have prostates, but that doesn’t mean pleasure can’t be found through the backdoor. For these people, buttholes are just as sensitive as their prostate owning counterparts. Internal anal play (by way of the anterior wall) stimulates the A-spot and the O-spot, a pleasure point for vulva owners.

Anal Training With Butt Plugs

Another benefit of using a butt plug is that it can help to prepare the anus for other types of anal play, such as penetrative anal sex. By gradually stretching and relaxing the muscles in the anal area, a butt plug can make penetration more comfortable and enjoyable. It can also help to train the muscles to relax on their own, making future anal play easier.

Anal training is accomplished gradually, by starting with a small anal plug or beads. As your body learns to accommodate the plug/beads, you can ‘level up’ in size and/or girth. Repeat this process until you reach your goal size.

Don’t rush the process and stop if you experience any discomfort. Discomfort can be a sign that you moved too fast and irritated or damaged the tissues. Small microtears or fissures in the tissues can be quite painful and if you are bleeding or having persistent discomfort or pain, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.  

What Does A Butt Plug Feel Like?

Butt plugs provide sensations of pressure, vibration, weight, and fullness – these feelings of pleasure are highly stimulating and incredibly arousing. 

Not only are butt plugs physically sensual, but they can be psychologically stimulating. The ‘taboo’ or ‘alternative’ nature of anal play adds elements of excitement and eroticism to sexual encounters. 

Since they can be worn for extended periods of time and are for the most part discreet, some people find immense pleasure in wearing their plug during everyday activities or in public.

Butt Plug Safety

It's important to note that using a butt plug does come with some risks, especially if proper precautions are not taken. It's crucial to choose a plug that is the right size and shape for your body and to use plenty of lubrication to prevent tearing or other injuries to the delicate tissues of the anus.

It's also important to clean the plug thoroughly before and after use to prevent the spread of bacteria or infections. Additionally, you should know that STIs can be transmitted by sharing toys.

 Learn More: How To Use A Butt Plug In 6 Steps

Article Summary: What Is A Butt Plug? 

In summary, a butt plug is a type of sex toy that can provide intense pleasure and arousal by stimulating the nerve endings in the anal area.  these toys can provide sensations of pressure, vibration, weight, and fullness, and can be psychologically stimulating as well.  

They can be useful for anal training and can make penetrative anal sex more comfortable and enjoyable. Butt plugs can also add an element of excitement and taboo to sexual experiences. However, it's crucial to use caution when using a butt plug, including selecting the right size and shape for your body, using plenty of lubrication, and cleaning the toy thoroughly before and after use. 

By taking these precautions, you can safely and confidently enjoy all that a butt plug has to offer.