Anal sex doesn’t have to be something reserved for partnered play. In fact, exploring anal stimulation during solo play can be one of the most powerful ways to get familiar with your body, understand what feels good, and learn how to relax into new kinds of pleasure, judgment-free and completely on your terms.
Yes, we’re out here normalizing anal self-pleasure. Because it’s rarely talked about in sex guides, especially for people with vulvas. And yet, solo anal exploration can unlock surprising sensations, deepen orgasm intensity, and boost body confidence; all while being completely safe and satisfying.
Why is anal stimulation pleasurable? A Quick look at anal anatomy.
The anus is rich with a network of nerve endings, making it one of the most sensitive areas on the body. For people with a prostate, anal stimulation can directly target the P-spot and lead to deep, full-body orgasms. For people with vulvas, anal stimulation can also feel incredible. That’s because the back wall of the vagina is close to the rectum. So anal pressure or penetration can indirectly stimulate vaginal nerves. And when paired with clitoral stimulation? It is a great way to achieve orgasm.
A 2022 study published in the National Library of Medicine from insights found in OMGYes.com's national pleasure report backs this up:
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40% of women enjoy touch on and around the anus.
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35% find shallow anal penetration pleasurable.
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40% say anal stimulation enhances clitoral or vaginal pleasure.
So yes, we'd say the butt is worth exploring.
Is it normal to explore anal play during masturbation?
Absolutely. Solo anal stimulation is a valid, natural part of sexual exploration - no matter your body or experience level. And exploring alone comes with major benefits:
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You control the pace.
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You learn what feels good (or doesn’t).
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There’s no pressure or expectation.
Good sex education helps break the shame that still lingers around anal pleasure. Sex is sex; solo, partnered, penetrative, or outercourse. Take the same approach with anal play, and you might discover a whole new layer of pleasure.
"Definitely a good intro plug for easing into anal play without pressure."
Types of solo anal stimulation to explore.
There’s no one “right” way to enjoy anal pleasure. Here are a few techniques to inspire, depending on your comfort level.
External stimulation.
Remember, butt play isn't all about penetration! Use your fingers or a toy to gently touch the anus and surrounding area. A soft stroke between the cheeks, rimming with a fingertip, or vibrating around the rim can feel amazing.
Shallow insertion.
When you’re aroused and relaxed, try inserting a well-lubricated finger or slim toy just past the sphincter (all toys used for butt play must have a stopper). Focus on slow movements, not depth.
Anal plugs or vibrating toys.
A beginner-friendly butt plug (like The Neighbor) can create a satisfying feeling of fullness. Some plugs vibrate, which adds even more sensation.
Combo play.
Many people love to “double up”: keeping a plug inserted while using a vaginal or clitoral vibrator. The contrast in sensations can seriously intensify pleasure.
How to add anal play to your masturbation routine.
One of the easiest ways to explore is to build anal touch into what you're already doing. For example:
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Add gentle strokes between the butt cheeks during clit play
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Try inserting a small plug while you use your favorite vibe
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Experiment with anal touch during orgasm to see how it shifts the experience
Just like with vaginal penetration, clitoral stimulation often boosts pleasure and increases the chances of orgasm. There’s no rule that says anal has to be the main event, sometimes it’s just the perfect extra.
Beginner-friendly anal play tips.
1. Use lube. Then use more.
The anus doesn’t self-lubricate, so a good lube is essential. Choose a body-safe water-based or silicone-based formula.
2. Start small and go slow.
A pinky or slim plug is plenty to start. You can build up as your comfort and curiosity grow.
3. Choose toys with a flared base.
Any anal toy should have a base or handle to prevent it from slipping in too far.
4. Relax and set the mood.
The more at ease you feel, the better it will be. Light a candle, play music, or do whatever helps you unwind.
5. Keep wipes nearby.
Intimate wipes are handy for cleaning up excess lube or for a refreshing sensation after anal play.
Solo anal play for people with vulvas.
If you’ve ever thought “Is anal pleasure for me?”, the answer might be yes. For people with vulvas, anal play can be an amazing way to heighten clitoral or vaginal stimulation and discover different orgasmic sensations. But it can also just feel good on its own.
Anal touch doesn’t have to mean deep penetration or anything dramatic. It can be soft, subtle, or rhythmic. As with any kind of sexual exploration, the key is listening to your body, and giving yourself full permission to explore without pressure.
Anal pleasure is about discovery, not obligation.
You don’t have to enjoy anal play, and you absolutely won’t if you force yourself to do it. That’s why solo play is such a powerful place to start. It’s just you, your curiosity, and your body. No rush. No rules.
Whether you end up loving it, liking it occasionally, or deciding it’s not for you, your experience is valid. Because the point of pleasure isn’t performance, it’s connection!
Ready to explore?
Meet The Neighbor: a cute, beginner-friendly vibrating plug we can all get behind. Dependable, body-safe, and anything but intimidating — it’s designed to bring just the right amount of spice to solo or partnered play.
💬 What people are saying about anal play.
"Tried the Smile Makers butt plug as a first timer and was honestly surprised by how approachable it felt. The silicone is super smooth and flexible, and the size didn’t feel overwhelming at all. I really liked that the shape was tapered it made it easier to relax and take my time. It didn’t feel clinical or intimidating, which helped a lot. Definitely a good intro plug for easing into anal play without pressure."
"I am surprised and amazed with this device. This is the first time I owned and used something like this and I realized I should have started sooner."
"This is the first time I’ve had/used a plug, and it has changed my sex life entirely! Was obviously very nervous at first, but what I really love about Smile Makers Collection is how educated and informative they are about this on their website. This made the entire process so much more enjoyable & relaxing."
