What pegging means
Pegging is when a woman penetrates a man anally using a strap-on: a dildo worn in a harness. The word was chosen by readers of an American sex advice column in 2001 and quickly caught on.
Some couples see it as a role reversal or part of a dominant and submissive dynamic; for others it is simply about physical pleasure. It is common, legal between consenting adults and says nothing about anyone's sexuality.
Why people enjoy it
The prostate, a small gland a few centimetres inside the rectum, is very sensitive, and many men find stimulating it intensely pleasurable. Partners often enjoy the closeness, trust and novelty, and the chance to swap their usual roles.
What you need
A comfortable harness and a dildo with a flared base made for anal use, starting small and smooth. Use plenty of good lubricant: water-based works with all toys, silicone-based lasts longer but should not be used with silicone toys. Condoms on the toy make cleaning easier.
Adult shops sell starter kits, and staff are used to these questions. See our guide to adult shops in person and online and choosing and cleaning toys.
Starting safely
Talk about it first, outside the bedroom: what each of you is curious about and what is off limits. Agree a word that stops everything.
Go slowly. Start with fingers or a small toy, use lots of lube, let the receiving partner control the pace and stop if anything hurts; pain is a signal to slow down, not push through. Wash toys after use and never move a toy from anal to vaginal use without cleaning it or changing the condom. More on consent and boundaries.
Your questions, answered
What does pegging mean?
Pegging means a woman penetrating a man anally with a strap-on dildo.
Does pegging hurt?
It should not. Go slowly, use plenty of lubricant, start small and stop if anything hurts.
Does enjoying pegging mean you are gay?
No. Enjoying prostate stimulation says nothing about who you are attracted to.