Curiosity about butt plugs is completely normal, and you’re in good company if you’ve ever wondered what the interest is about. For many women these small, tapered toys open the door to new sensations, a deeper sense of body awareness, and a playful way to explore intimacy alone or with a partner. If the idea feels a little intimidating, take a breath — it’s only freaky the first time.

As the NHS notes, the anus doesn’t produce its own lubrication, so a good water-based lube is a must.

Butt plugs are smooth, tapered toys designed to be worn in the anus for a comfortable feeling of gentle fullness. Unlike toys meant for active in-and-out motion, they are shaped to stay put once inserted, with a narrow neck and a wide, flared base that keeps them safely in place and easy to remove.

Butt plugs come in a range of styles to suit different comfort levels and interests:

The appeal of butt plugs comes down to sensation and exploration. The area around the anus is rich in nerve endings that sit close to those of the vaginal wall, so a gentle, steady sense of fullness can feel surprisingly pleasurable — especially when combined with other kinds of stimulation.

Women commonly describe a few different draws:

There is no “right” reason to be curious. Whether you are exploring alone or with someone you trust, the experience is entirely yours to define.

The single most important feature to look for is a flared base. The anus, unlike other parts of the body, can draw a small object further in — so a wide base or a retrieval loop is non-negotiable.

It keeps the toy secure and easy to remove. If a plug does not have one, it is not safe to use.

Beyond the base, keep these beginner priorities in mind:

Silicone is flexible and warms to body temperature, which many beginners find reassuring. Glass and stainless steel are firmer and hold temperature, so they can be gently warmed or cooled for a different sensation. All three are excellent, body-safe choices — the best butt plugs for you come down to the feel you prefer.

Lubricant is not optional when you use butt plugs — it is essential. The anus does not produce its own lubrication the way the vagina does, so a generous amount of the right lube makes the whole experience smoother, more comfortable, and safer.

A little preparation goes a long way toward a relaxed, enjoyable first experience. Wash your hands and the plug beforehand, and give yourself unhurried, private time. Many women find it helps to be warmed up and already aroused before inserting a plug, since a relaxed body accepts them far more easily than a tense one.

When you are ready to insert, the golden rule is relax and go slow:

Keep sessions on the shorter side while you are learning what feels good with butt plugs, and simply remove the plug whenever you are ready.

Proper care keeps butt plugs safe to use and long-lasting. Because they are body-safe and non-porous, they clean up easily.

These beginner-friendly, body-safe picks are a great place to start.