A dildo is a sex toy that can be inserted into the mouth, anus, or vagina. They often look like penises, but they can also be made of other materials and in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some are curved to stimulate the prostate or g-spot. Some dildos have more realistic coloring and features, such as veins and heads, while others are just smooth and simple. Some dildos are even made of silicone, which allows them to subvert obscenity laws in countries and states where they are illegal to sell for sexual purposes.
In the past, dildos were seen as substitute or supplementary penises for women, but now they are widely used by both sexes. In fact, they are so popular that there are dildo-like objects in archaeological sites dating back thousands of years. They have been carved from stone, jade, glass, pottery, rubber, horn, and more. They have also been used for sexual gratification since ancient times, and the earliest evidence of this was found in the Hohle Fels cave in Germany and dates from 28,000 to 11,000 BC. This prehistoric phallic decoration includes dots and lines that were likely created by our ancestors for some ritual purpose, although it is not clear whether the objects were actually dildos or penises.
The word dildo is thought to come from an Old English term meaning “a doll,” but the etymology is disputed. It could be related to a word meaning “to soothe,” as in a doll that is meant to comfort a child, or it might be a diminutive of an earlier word for penis, such as the Saxon word dill.
Today, there are many different types of dildos to choose from, and each one is meant for a different type of pleasure. Choosing the right one requires weighing an array of factors, including material, size, shape, anal-safety, and whether you’re looking for a single- or double-ended model. It’s also important to consider anal hygiene and the lubrication needed for your dildo experience.
Most experts agree that silicone is the best dildo material for beginners because it is soft and heat-resistant. Silicone also helps reduce friction, which can lead to an uncomfortable feel. It’s also a good idea to start with a small dildo and work your way up to a larger size if you want to increase the sensation of penetration.
It’s also a good idea to always use lube with a dildo, as this reduces the risk of infection. The anus doesn’t self-lubricate, so it’s important to have a little bit on hand at all times. And, as with any other sex toy, the dildo needs to be cleaned thoroughly after each use to avoid bacteria build-up. This is especially true if you’re using the dildo in the mouth or anal canal, where bacteria can be more dangerous. Fortunately, cleaning a dildo is a relatively easy process. Just make sure you use a clean cloth or towel to wipe it, and don’t attempt to remove it with force.