Anal beads

Go slowly and use plenty of anal lubricant. Relax, insert one bead at a time, and stop whenever it feels like enough – there's no requirement to use the full string. Keep hold of the retrieval ring, and remove the beads slowly and gently rather than pulling quickly. A beginner set with small beads is the best starting point, and you can graduate to larger sizes as you get comfortable.

A seamless, one-piece silicone design is the best choice for most people: body-safe, flexible, and easy to clean because there's no cord for bacteria to hide in. Traditional corded beads should be cleaned meticulously or used with a condom. Whatever the material, make sure the toy has a proper retrieval ring or flared end, and wash it before and after use with a toy cleaner.

Movement. Butt plugs are designed to be inserted and worn, giving a constant feeling of fullness, while anal beads are all about the in-and-out sensation of each bead passing the muscle. Beads suit people who enjoy active stimulation and a build-up they control; plugs suit those who like sustained pressure, often while doing something else. Many people happily keep both in the drawer.