Somewhere along the line, anal sex got associated with specific genders and/or sexual orientations. But anal play is for all genders, all sexual orientations, and all humans who want to explore this super sensitive and pleasurable area of the body. And what better time to dive deep into anal play than August, aka Anal Sex Month?

Anal play refers to sexual stimulation of the anus and rectum. It can include external stimulation with toys, a mouth, through anal fingering; or penetration with a body part or toy. The area has so many nerve endings—both externally and internally—making anal play not just for those with prostates. In fact, folks who have a clitoris can indirectly stimulate the clitoris and/or the G-spot with anal penetration.

Here’s the thing, though: Anal sex requires some knowledge and care. The skin is so sensitive, the muscles are often tense and tight, and there’s no natural lubrication. You need a lot of lube for anal play to feel good. It’s also still essential to be turned on and aroused to help relax the muscles around your booty hole. Some people might also need to train anally—aka getting the muscles and skin in and around your anus used to penetration. (Think of it like stretching before a workout.)

While our body parts are lovely for anal play (tongues, fingers, genitals, etc.), sometimes we need toys, tools, or aids to help assist us with anal play or anal sex. Below are a few of my favorites that I like to recommend.

8 of the best anal sex toys for all genders, according to a sex therapist

1. Lovers Anal Plug 3-Piece Training Set

Lovers Anal Plug Training Set — $39.00

Experience Level: Beginner & Intermediate

If you’re just starting anal training or want to up your game a little bit, this smooth silicone set from Lovers is a favorite because of the wide bases. This set comes with three plugs, graduating in sizes, and the handles have little flexibility so that it can move with your body—this makes it easier for you to focus entirely on your pleasure and sensations.

2. Blush Anal Adventures Matrix Wavy Bling Plug

Blush Anal Adventures Matrix Wavy Bling Plug — $29.00

Experience Level: Beginner

This plug is perfect for anyone wanting to explore anal play alone or with a partner. This wavy bling plug has a tapered head for easy insertion in any position. It’s made of platinum-cured silicone, which is super soft and smooth and free of phthalates, paraffin, fragrance, and latex. The insertable length is 4,” and it’s 1.5” wide. It’s great for play or anal training and wearable, even with the bling at the bottom!

3. Future Method Explorer Kit

Future Method Explorer Kit — $90.00

Experience Level: All

Nervous about the prep and care that is required for anal sex? Enter Future Method. Created by anal surgeon Evan Goldstein, DO, this full-care kit has everything you’ll need as the human receiving penetration. It includes a two-pack of the brand’s disposable rectal wash, a pH-balanced solution that will help you clean inside your booty without worrying about the harsh chemicals and minerals in tap water. You’ll also get a butt and body scrub, a gentle exfoliating cleanser that smells like heaven and helps clean your booty hole and cheeks for sex, along with a moisturizing cream that soothes delicate anal skin.

4. OhNut Classic Stackable Rings

OhNut Classic Stackable Rings — $85.00

Experience Level: All

When you’re first exploring anal sex, the penetration depth is really intense, so having more control over that without putting that entirely on the person penetrating is terrific. Enter OhNut, which uses four stackable rings to help you control penetration so it feels good, not overwhelming or painful. Also, they’re super soft (feel like skin), incredibly stretchy, and condom-compatible.

5. Foria Intimacy Melts With CBD

Foria Intimacy Melts With CBD — $20.00

Experience Level: All

These CBD suppositories can be used vaginally or anally to help relax your muscles and sex more comfortable. They’re super small, easy to insert, and will help relax blood vessels and muscle tissue internally. They’re made with organic-certified fair trade cocoa butter and 100 mg of broad-spectrum CBD. Note: Because there are some all-natural oils in these suppositories, use condoms without latex to ensure you’re fully protected.

6. Crystal Delights Glass Dilator Set

Crystal Delights Glass Dilator Set — $211.00

Experience Level: All

These glass dilators—designed by a plastic surgeon—are safe, effective, and comfortable and can be used vaginally or anally. The dilators are handmade in the U.S. from medical-grade borosilicate glass and are available in multiple different widths to help you gradually get used to anal play.

7. b-Vibe Anal Education Set: mASSters Degree Edition

b-Vibe Anal Education Set: Masster’s Degree Edition — $300.00

Experience Level: Advanced

This set is for anyone who is a bit more experienced with anal sex and wants to take their play to the next level. It includes a Snug Plug 6 (a little over a pound!), Rimming Plug XL with a remote, large graduated anal beads, a hollow cone to “graduate your gape,” with numbered measurements along the side, nitrile gloves (allergen-free and lube-receptive), a deep wash enema kit, and a mASSter’s Collection Guide to help you learn how to use everything.

8. Bedroom Kandi Booty Call Anal Plug

Bedroom Kandi Booty Call Anal Plug — $30.00

Experience Level: Beginners

If you’re new to getting some backdoor play, this small anal plug is a great way to get comfortable playing the game. Made of body-safe silicone, this smooth little toy comes with a security ring for easy retrieval and maximizing pleasure. Add some water-based lube and saddle up for a good time.

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