An Overview of Pegging
Pegging is the act of one person (of any gender) penetrating another person’s anus, typically using a strap-on dildo.
Traditionally, the term came from heterosexual contexts (e.g., a woman using a strap-on with a man) but that framing is outdated. Pegging can be for any gender pairing, and it’s less about who’s doing what to whom, and more about what the act offers in terms of sensation, intimacy, and sometimes power play.
What Pegging Is (And Isn’t)
For some people, pegging is purely about the physical sensation of prostate stimulation (for those who have one) or deep anal play (for those who don’t). For others, it’s also about exploring sexual dynamics such as role reversal, dominance/submission, or breaking from societal expectations of who penetrates whom.
What pegging isn’t:
A guaranteed sign someone’s queer (sexual acts ≠ sexual orientation).
Automatically degrading or emasculating (unless that’s the agreed fantasy).
Something you have to be “into anal” already to try.
Why Do People Like Pegging?
The appeal of pegging can be physical, psychological (or both) but the reasons for exploring are pretty varied.
Physical pleasure
For people with a prostate, pegging can create intense stimulation that’s difficult to replicate in other ways. For those without a prostate, the pleasure can come from the fullness, pressure, and nerve endings in the anal canal.
Power dynamics
There’s a lot of cultural baggage around who penetrates and who gets penetrated. It’s important to note that if you’re a sub and your Dominant wants to be pegged, the dynamic can still be at play if the pegging is something that your Dom(me) tells you to do to them. But regardless of whether your Dominant is the one doing or receiving the pegging, the experience can be empowering, taboo, or hot in a way that’s uniquely tied to the act.
Emotional intimacy
Because pegging often requires communication, preparation, and trust, it can create a deeper sense of connection between partners. It’s a vulnerable act for the receiver, and it’s a skill-based act for the giver. Both roles build closeness.
Curiosity and exploration
For some, pegging is simply about expanding their sexual menu. It’s a “let’s see what this is like” activity. Who doesn’t like a little exploration now and then?
Regardless of whether you’re just exploring pegging for the first time, or have done it many times before, we have a few safety considerations to keep in mind while you enjoy this sensual activity.
Safety Considerations for Pegging
Anal play requires a bit more preparation than other kinds of penetration. The anus doesn’t self-lubricate, and the tissue is more delicate than vaginal tissue, so care matters.
Go slow. If it’s your first time (or your partner’s), start with fingers or smaller toys before moving to a strap-on. You can always size up later, but rushing can cause pain or injury.
Use lube. Lots of lube. Silicone-based or thick water-based lubricants are best for anal play. Reapply as needed. And if you’re using a silicone dildo, skip the silicone lube (it can damage the toy).
Clean everything. Wash toys before and after use with warm water and mild soap (or a toy cleaner). If switching between anal and vaginal play, change condoms on the toy or clean it in between to avoid bacterial transfer.
Positioning matters. Choose a position where the receiver feels relaxed and in control. Positions can include spooning, missionary with legs up, or bent over a bed can all work. Communication about angle and depth is key.
Safe words aren’t just for impact play. Agree on a way to pause or stop if something feels uncomfortable or painful.
Check in about health and protection. Condoms on the toy can make cleanup easier and add a barrier for STI prevention if you’re not fluid-bonded with your partner.
Pegging Tips for Receivers and Givers
Whether you’re the giver or receiver, there’s more to pegging than just strapping on and going for it. Communication before, during, and after is essential. Share fantasies, limits, and what you want to get out of the experience.
If you’re the receiver:
Relaxation is your best friend. A warm bath, a little solo anal play, or deep breathing can help.
Control the pace at first. Guide your partner’s movements so they know what feels good.
Don’t skip aftercare. Even if it’s just a cuddle or decompressing together, that connection helps.
If you’re the giver:
Practice wearing the strap-on before your first pegging session. Get comfortable with how it moves on your body.
Pay attention to body language. The receiver’s verbal and non-verbal cues matter more than your rhythm.
Remember that pegging is not just “thrusting.” Experiment with grinding, shallow strokes, or holding still for the receiver to move.
The beauty of pegging is that it’s endlessly customizable. You can keep it light, exploratory, and purely physical, or you can build entire scenes around it—mixing in power play, costumes, role reversal, or dirty talk.
If you’re curious but hesitant, you don’t have to commit to a full strap-on setup right away. Start small: try fingering, butt plugs, or dildos used without a harness. See how you feel, then decide if you want to go bigger.
Whatever your approach, remember that consent, communication, and lubricants are essential to having a good time.
