Anal beads are some of the most popular anal toys. These toys, which can be both soft and firm-textured, normally consist of five or six spheres connected with a piece of nylon cord. Another popular variant involves a series of plastic or rubber spheres connected by the same material, effectively making a 'stick' of anal beads. The SpectraGel Anal Beads are a soft, resilient string of jelly-type beads, positioned smallest to largest for the most natural feel.  Whichever model you choose, they are a perfect toy if you're interested in exploring anal stimulation but feel hesitant to begin with something as obtrusive as a butt plug.

Anal beads are enjoyed by those who experience intense anal stimulation in the area surrounding the outer sphincter. Both males and females can find these sensations to be pleasurable because of the sensitive nerves contained in the rectum and sphincter. Some find that larger beads produce a greater stimulation and request beads as large as golf balls. Those who are trying anal beads for the first time should start small and gradually find the size best for them.

How does one use anal beads?

Anal beads are a simple sex toy to use. They are inserted into the anus slowly bead by bead. Some find that the removal of the anal beads at the point of orgasm to be most delightful, while others may find that this stimulation is simply too intense. You will have to explore on your own to determine how anal beads best fit into your sex life.

If you have never used anal toys before, you may want to take a warm bath first to relax your sphincter. Relaxation and lubrication are two of the most important things to remember when using anal beads. Relaxation of the sphincter is a true skill, which some can master quickly and others cannot master at all. Relaxation of the sphincter will mean that the anal beads can be inserted with no pain at all. Lubrication is the other ingredient to satisfying anal-bead play. The rectal lining is thin and can be damaged by rough or dry objects, making lubrication necessary for safe usage.

Some concerns about anal beads

Following these simple guidelines will make your anal play both satisfying and safe:

The adult novelty industry is rife with cheaply manufactured products and therefore you should keep you eyes open for the following problems to avoid any mishaps.

• The first problem is normally found with hard plastic anal beads. These anal beads are molded from two half spheres which are then fused together. When the anal beads are fused together, hard plastic edges can result in the middle of each bead. If you buy anal beads from any store make sure that you file any edges down with an emery board. Never place anything in your rectum with a sharp edge on it.

• Make sure that you always check the strength of the nylon cord that connects the beads. This cord must be strong so that you can pull the beads out of the anus with no difficulty. Always check this cord and make sure that all the anal beads are connected securely.

• Finally, you should use a condom with your anal beads made out of soft rubber. The jelly material most often used in these models is quite porous and can house some of the bacteria found in the rectum. By placing a condom over the beads with each use you will keep you beads clean, making them safe to share with your partner.