Anal speculums

Steel anal spreader or a spreading plug?

• Anal speculum a stainless steel instrument with blades. The Barr Rectal Speculum Small and the Sims Rectal Speculum from Mr. Steel are two examples. The Pratt Rectal Spreader opens in a different way, so read the description carefully. More clinical instruments are in our BDSM speculums.
• Spreading plug the Spreader 4-Way Plug from Hidden Desire is made of silicone and goes in like a plug. It’s a good option if you prefer a softer material.

How does an anal speculum open?

An anal speculum goes in closed, and only then do you open the blades with the handles or a screw mechanism. That way you decide exactly how far the anus opens, and you can go back at any moment. Some models lock in position, while with others you keep hold of the handle yourself. This step-by-step opening is what makes a speculum suited to clinical play, where watching and control are at the heart of the scene. The spreading plug works differently, because it goes in like an ordinary plug and mainly gives a full, stretching feeling.

Which size should you start with?

For a first time, a compact model such as the Barr Rectal Speculum Small is the logical choice. Check the description for the blade length and the width when closed, since those decide how insertion feels. If you’re already used to a medium-sized plug, the step up to a speculum is smaller. For many people, the silicone plug from Hidden Desire is a gentler stepping stone towards steel. If you notice that you keep tensing up as it opens, go back to a smaller plug for a while.

How do you use an anal spreader safely?

An anal spreader is a toy for experienced players. If you have little experience, build up first with a butt plug training kit in increasing sizes. Agree on a safe word, use plenty of anal lube and open in small steps. Insert the instrument closed, and close it fully again before you take it out. Stop straight away if you feel sharp pain or see blood, and see your GP if it stays sore afterwards. Wash steel with warm water and mild soap, paying close attention to hinges and screw threads.

What should you agree on before clinical play?

Medical fetish is often a role play in which one person examines and the other surrenders. Talk beforehand about what you both do and don’t want, and agree that whoever holds the speculum describes each step out loud. Rinsing with an anal douche is a good way to prepare, so you can start the scene relaxed and without worries. Lay out towels, lube and a small lamp, so you don’t have to search for anything mid-scene. If you’d like to dress up the scenario, you’ll find outfits and props under role play. Once dry, store a steel instrument in a pouch or cloth to keep it clean and free of scratches.

A spreader bar is something else entirely, as it keeps the ankles or knees apart. You’ll find those among the spreader bars, and there’s plenty more kinky play in our BDSM toys.

Frequently asked questions about anal spreaders