Editor Tip: This temperature-play-friendly toy can also be used for a stimulating massage on any and all of your erogenous zones.
Product specs: Borosilicate glass-based dildo, handle for easy manageability, curvy design, tapered tip, seven inches of insertable length, two-inch circumference at the widest point.
What is a dildo?
Chances are, you already know what a dildo is. But, in case you don’t, it’s essentially any phallic-shaped sex toy. “They can be used for sexual penetration purposes but also masturbation,” says New York City-based American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists-certified sex and couples therapist Lee Phillips, LCSW. “They can be inserted into the vulva, anus, or the mouth.”
Many dildos used to have a lifelike look to represent a real penis, but times have changed, and so have our preferences in dildo aesthetics. Now, there are many dildos with sleek designs that aren’t intensely vulgar, and you have way more than the average silicone dildo to choose from. “Dildos can be made from different materials, like silicone, rubber, plastic, stainless steel, or break-resistant glass,” says Lee.
How do dildos differ from vibrators?
The main difference between the two is that vibrators, well, vibrate, and dildos usually don’t. That doesn’t mean vibrating dildos don’t exist (there’s actually one on this list), but overall, dildos focus more on penetration while vibrators provide more of an all-around stimulating experience, especially for those with vulvas. “Vibrators can be dual-acting, therefore they provide internal and clitoral stimulation,” says Lee. Dildos also tend to have a phallic shape, while vibrating options like bullet vibrators can come in different shapes and sizes to provide internal and/or external stimulation.
What are some of the benefits of using a dildo?
The main reason anyone should get a dildo is for penetrative sex, and there’s not a single definition for that. Dildos can be used for vaginal stimulation and many can be used for anal play, also known as pegging. “Pegging is when a person wears a strap-on dildo, particularly a vulva owner, and penetrates a penis owner’s anus,” says Lee. “But this is not about gender; two vulva owners can get it on with pegging. If you are a cisgender man with the fantasy of having your partner penetrate you and hit your prostate, pegging is also for you.”
If you’re testing the waters of vaginal penetration, Lee suggests grabbing a short-length dildo, “which nudges the G-spot well,” he says. As for anal sex, whether you’re playing with the idea of pegging with a partner or just enjoy the feel of P-spot stimulation on your own, dildos are a great place to start. With that being said, Lee recommends using a smaller-sized dildo or butt plug with lots of lube for a smooth glide. “Dildos with a curved bulbous tip are great for prostate stimulation,” he adds.
What are the best type of dildos to use during anal sex?
First thing’s first: what not to use as an anal dildo. Not every dildo can be used anally, so make sure to read the instructions — if they say vaginal penetration only, put the dildo down. It also helps to grab an anal dildo with a flared base so the toy doesn’t get stuck (hey, it happens). For prostate stimulation, Lee says a pick with a curved shaft and bulbous head will hit the right spot. But, no matter which anal toy you use, always remember: lube is your best friend.
