Pegging explained: how to do it safely
Pegging starts with the right preparation. Pegging requires a giver (with a strap-on dildo) and a receiver (who receives the dildo in their anus).
Using a strap-on harness with a suitably sized dildo is essential. Beginners should choose a diameter of no more than 3 centimeters to let the anus adjust. Always use a water-based lubricant to reduce friction and make insertion comfortable.
Hygiene plays a key role: clean the dildo before and after use with warm water and an antibacterial toy cleaner. Communicate continuously during play about what feels good and what doesn't. Build up penetration slowly to give the muscles and nerves time to relax. Safe pegging also means using condoms on the dildo when it's used anally, especially when switching partners or moving from anal to vaginal play.
Pegging is an extension of BDSM and falls under the category of femdom; the power play is similar to CFNM or cuckolding, in which the man is subordinate to the woman.
Why some men enjoy anal stimulation
The male body contains the prostate, often described as the “male G-spot.” This gland is located a few centimeters inside the anus and responds extremely sensitively to targeted pressure. Prostate stimulation can lead to more intense orgasms than are possible through the penis alone.
(source: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12128925/figure/f4/)
Many men also find the psychological aspect of pegging exciting: breaking traditional power dynamics, embracing vulnerability, and exploring a new dimension of sexual pleasure. In a 2023 survey of 466 men, 39% reported that prostate stimulation led to more intense orgasms and longer-lasting afterglow. (1)
The combination of a new stimulus (anal stimulation) and power dynamics (the giver has power over the receiver) makes pegging so interesting for couples.
Risks of pegging
When pegging, it is important to watch out for the most common mistakes. Pegging requires preparation to ensure that the receiving partner does not sustain any physical injuries.
So always make sure to practice pegging carefully, let the anus get used to the size of the dildo being used, and openly agree on a signal to let each other know if either of you no longer feels comfortable.
Pegging for lesbians
For women who are attracted to other women, pegging is a suitable way to have penetrative sex without using a penis. The strap-on dildo does not need to be held, and this technique leaves your hands free to stimulate, for example, the breasts or clitoris.
Accessibility
Pegging is accessible to and can be practiced by people of all sexual orientations, including heterosexual couples, gay men and lesbians. This versatile fetish allows for greater exploration of anal stimulation using a strap-on dildo.
Alternative to pegging
An alternative to pegging, where one partner is penetrated with a dildo, is to use a sex machine.
The controlling partner can decide how deep, how fast and how intensely the penetration is performed by turning the sex machine's controls.
You can also use a sex machine for double penetration, with oral sex and anal stimulation taking place at the same time.
References
- Zaliznyak, M., Walton, A. B., Stelmar, J., Isaacson, D., Gaither, T. W., Knudson, G., & Garcia, M. M. (2025). Anal sex practices and rectal erogenous zone maps among men and women of diverse sexual orientations: an anatomic-map based questionnaire study. Sexual Medicine, 13(3), qfaf037. Accessed on 26/11/2025 at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12128925/
