Beginner’s Guide to Anal Play: The (Literal) Back Door to Pleasure
Let’s be honest, anal play still carries a bit of a taboo.
For some, it’s mysterious and exciting. For others, it’s a hard no (pun fully intended). And for many, it sits somewhere in the middle - curious, but cautious.
If you’ve ever felt curious but unsure, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, a lot of people’s first experiences weren’t exactly… great. Sometimes they rushed into it, weren’t ready, or did it for the wrong reason, often to please a partner rather than because they genuinely wanted to explore it.
Let’s clear the air (and the stigma) a little. Anal play can be incredible - but only when it’s done slowly, safely, and on your terms.
First things first: why you want to try it matters
There’s no gold star for trying everything.
You don’t owe anyone anal play. Not a partner, not curiosity, not the internet.
If you’re doing it, do it because you want to know how it feels.
Because you’re exploring your own pleasure, not performing someone else’s fantasy.
When the curiosity is your own, it’s a completely different experience, you’re in control, you set the pace, and your body will tell you exactly what’s working.
How to make it better (like, way better)
A few golden rules before you even think about it:
💧 Use lots of lube.
Like… more than you think. Anal play without lube is a recipe for discomfort. Silicone-based lubes work beautifully for longer sessions, but water-based ones are easier to clean. Either way, use plenty, reapply often.
🧘♀️ Relax. Seriously.
If you’re tense, your muscles will be too. Take your time. Focus on breathing. Try a vibe on or around your clit at the same time - it can make your body relax and make the sensations feel way more enjoyable.
📏 Start small.
And I mean really small. You don’t have to start with anything ambitious. In fact, smaller is better when you’re new - which is exactly why we designed our Gleam plugs the way we did.
Meet Gleam: your gentle intro to anal play
Our Gleam plugs are smooth, petite, and beginner-friendly - made from sleek aluminium alloy that warms (or cools) beautifully with your body.
They come in XS and S sizes (smaller than most plugs you’ll find elsewhere) so you can take your time and see if you actually like the sensations before going any further.
And here’s the thing: you don’t ever have to “move up.” You can absolutely stay at the size that feels good. Pleasure isn’t a competition, and this definitely isn’t about “training” for anyone else.
Bottom line (literally)
Anal play can be a whole lot of fun, but only in the right way, and for the right reasons.
Go slow. Use lube. Stay relaxed. Start small. And remember: it’s about what feels good to you.
So whether you’re simply curious or ready to explore, do it on your terms. ✨