Anal starter - anal probe by Doc Johnson - review by So Long Ya Doofuses!

This was the first dildo (or even remotely penis-shaped item) I ever purchased and used. As a virgin who had no experience with vaginal penetration other than my own fingers and a condom-covered taper candle, I had bought this with the intent of satisfying my vagina's curiosity without having to rely on anyone other than myself.

If smell is a primary concern of yours when it comes to selecting a toy, this one could very well be a deal-breaker. The flexible PVC material gives off the usual lightly-fruity scent that is typical of most toys made of similar material. Personally, I do not mind the smell, and in fact it is a turn-on for me. Those who do not feel the same could be in for disappointment. It usually does not linger on the skin, though. When it comes to storage, I find that wrapping this dildo in an old, clean shirt and putting it in a box under my bed keeps it out of sight, and out of mind. Cleaning it is simple, although you need to be extra thorough if you have used it anally without a condom.

For about the first six months, I only used this dildo vaginally, sometimes with a condom and sometimes without (more on that later). Even though I personally do not get a proverbial kick out of vaginal penetration, I can feel and appreciate the detailed shaping and texturing that made it seem (as far as my little virgin self knows) more like a real penis. After about six months, I finally decided to use this dildo for its intended purpose (although I made the mistake of letting it be the first thing other than my own fingers that I ever used anally, and that was a bit painful). From that day forward, I had to make sure this dildo remained anal-only, in order to avoid cross-contamination from the anus to the vagina. I no longer use it vaginally, even though I have washed it thoroughly with antibacterial dish soap in hot water.

With plenty of water-based lube, this dildo slides in and out quite easily, though the sensation can be disconcerting at times if one is not used to it. The insertable length of 4.5 inches and 3.25 inch circumference is much more ideal for those new to the world of sex toys, as I was when I bought it. That being said, it is not the type of dildo one should rely on for practicing condom use. A standard condom will unroll over the entire length and still have an inch or two to spare, and it will not fill out the condom either. The visual result is not unlike sticking a thin candle into a tube sock. It will, however, make cleanup much easier, and it'll get a person into the habit of protecting their toys.

The toy's flared base not only gives an added sense of security when inserted into the orifice of choice, but it also has a type of suction cup on bottom that works surprisingly well with a little bit of water. I have stuck it onto tile walls, inclined bathtub sides, and toilet lids with a good deal of success. The base does not, however, have a lot of grabbing room when the entire dildo is inserted, and this can take a bit of getting used to when used anally. The shaft tapers a bit before flaring, and thus the anus is able to keep a good grip on it, even if it feels like it is going to pop out. I simultaneously love and hate this aspect of the toy.

For the price, this is a great first toy for those who might feel intimidated by the longer and thicker dildos, especially if you are just getting started with anal penetration.

After some soul-searching (and a bit of probing), I have decided to retire my first love not too long after our two year anniversary. This site helped me realize just how low its material safety rating was, and because standard condoms fit on this dildo like a paper sack on a carrot, I was using it anally without a condom most of the time (it has not gone back in my vagina since the last review, don't worry). The texturing makes it hard to clean thoroughly, especially under the rim of the glans. I suppose I have become spoiled by higher quality materials because the "sex toy smell" I had thought was standard is now a turn-off for me. Even as I type, I can still smell the plasticky scent on my fingers. Once I find a way to dispose of this toy without my parents seeing or smelling it, I plan to move on to something much safer and easier to clean.