An Introduction to Anal Beads
Anal beads are a great way to enjoy anal stimulation. They are used by men and women, gay or straight, alone or with a partner. They can be an addition to a sexual repertoire with a partner, or be a primary source of sexual pleasure. Anal beads are popular, good value for money, and they create sensations that other adult toys can't achieve.
Description
Anal beads consist of a series of round beads that are joined together by a long string or cord. One end of the cord usually has a loop or a handle to facilitate removal of the strand. The beads themselves can be made from a wide variety of materials. Plastic is hard and inflexible; silicone is soft and supple; metal is heavy and rock solid. The beads also range in size -- from small to very large with all sizes in between. The size and type of bead you choose will depend on your level of anal toy experience as well as the kind of sensation you prefer. We suggest that those with little or no anal bead experience start off with smaller beads and, if they enjoy the experience, work their way up to a larger size as their confidence grows.
Choosing anal beads
There’s a lot to choose from! There are small beads, large beads, smooth beads, textured beads, long strands of beads, short strands of beads, plastic, silicone, rubber, Cyberskin and metal beads, vibrating anal beads and non-vibrating anal beads. Each material produces a somewhat different sensation and there are also differences in prices. Silicone is more expensive than plastic, for example. The most important decision is to choose an appropriate bead size. Beginners should start with small, smooth beads. As you get more experience you can try larger, textured beads and heavier materials.
Using anal beads
Anal beads produce pleasure when they're inserted and subsequently removed from the anus. The anal sphincter has many sensitive nerve endings and anal beads work by stimulating the stretch receptors in the anus, creating tingling sensations of pleasure.
Before inserting the beads, relax your body and mind as much as possible. Make sure you use a suitable lubricant as this will produce a much more enjoyable experience. A good quality, water based lubricant is ideal. Add some lubrication to the beads and some to your anus in order to reduce friction, making it easier to insert the beads. Go slowly, inserting the beads one by one. Take time to enjoy the sensation. If you experience any discomfort or pain, stop immediately. Try inserting a finger to loosen up a bit. Many beginners, especially, are a little apprehensive about anal play and the natural reaction is to tighten the sphincter muscle, making it uncomfortable to insert the beads.
Once you’ve inserted the beads move on to the next step. Carefully pull the handle and slowly remove the beads one by one. The timing of extraction is an individual choice. For some people it’s such an intense feeling that they prefer to experience it alone; for others, removing the beads just prior to or during orgasm heightens the sensations and creates a more intense orgasm. Try experimenting, with or without a partner, to find out what works best for you.
Hygiene
To ensure the rectum is clean and fresh, it’s advisable to use an anal douche before inserting a sex toy such as beads. If possible, try and have a bowel movement an hour or so before play. Always clean the beads after use. This can be done with warm water and mild soap or, ideally, with an anti-bacterial toy cleaner. Porous materials such as jelly rubber, silicone and latex require extra attention to cleaning as they can harbour more bacteria. Never switch the beads from the anus to other orifices without cleaning them first. Do not transfer the beads to a partner without cleaning them beforehand.
Looking after anal beads
Anal beads will last a long time if they are kept clean and cared for. Do not use silicone based lubricants with silicone beads as this will cause an interaction that will damage the toy. Similarly, oil based lubricants are harmful to rubber toys so it’s important to make sure you have the right combination. Water based lubes work fine with all types of toys.