Contrary to popular belief, sex toys aren’t just about dildos and vibrators. They are as much for men as they are women, which is why there are many men’s sex toys out there just waiting to be discovered.

If it’s your first time using men’s sex toys however, it’s important to understand what each does – otherwise you could be in for a painful awakening! Here’s a quick low-down on some of the male sex toys on the market.

Butt plugs
These are designed to provide anal and prostate stimulation. They are not for the faint-hearted, but for those who are really into anal play, can provide hours of pleasure. Coming in all different shapes, sizes and textures, there really is a butt plug for everyone! Just be sure to use lots of lube before getting going, especially if you are a beginner.

Cock rings/straps
These sound painful, but they aren’t – unless you want them to be! These basically put extra pressure on an erect penis; making sex last longer and ultimately, be more pleasurable. They come again in a variety of sizes, designs and materials, so you can choose what works best for you. Some are even studded in order to provide pleasure for your partner. Some extend through the whole shaft of the penis; however these can prove painful for the larger man.

Pumps
These do what they say on the tin – pump up your penis. This makes it bigger and induces blood flow; making your erection last for longer. They are more a tool than a toy, but for some, provide a sensation that just can’t be matched.

These are just a few of the products available to you, but should provide a good starting point. If you find you don’t like one, why not try something different rather than giving up altogether? You might find something you really love, so it’s important to keep trying.