QOTM: What is the difference between butt plugs and prostate massagers?

You asked, we answer. So what is the difference between the two? Even though they are used in the same general area, they have different form and function and distinct differences.

Butt Plugs

• Have a flared end
  They come in many different colors, shapes and sizes, but are usually shaped more or less like a tear drop, have a thinner connecting piece to allow the sphincter to close a bit and then a flared end (*) to stay in place and not get inserted too deep (or get lost in here somewhere, which is s trip to the ER you really want to not have to deal with).
• Generally stay in place for a long time
  Once they are inserted they tend to stay were they are and not move around too much. Butt Plugs can be combined with all kinds of sexual play, and stay in place for a long time no matter what. And some people like to wear them for extended periods of time (including in public).
• Can vibrate
  there are vibrating options, if desired.
• Can be enjoyed by all genders
  (i.e. you do not have to have a prostate to enjoy them). There are many sensitive nerve endings in the rectum, so anyone can enjoy or benefit from the use of a butt plug during sexual play and they can make other kinds of stimulations more intense.

Prostate Massagers

• Have specific shapes to stimulate a specific spot (and sometimes the perineum as well)
  The prostate is located forward of the rectum about 3 inches in. There are many different types and shapes (so you might have to experiment a bit and find the right one), but generally speaking they have a slight bend or curve in them, similar to a G-Spot Stimulator to hit the right spot. Some include additional bits or “appendages” to stimulate the perineum. There is usually a handle or grip of sorts to allow yourself or your partner to move or manipulate it while it is inserted.
• Function by getting moved around
  Prostate massagers need to be moved or rocked around to stimulate the prostate, the penis can be stimulated at the same time.
• Can vibrate
  there are vibrating options available. These tend to not need much movement to achieve stimulation
• Have health benefits
  Using prostate massage regularly can enhance sexual enjoyment and improve erections, support prostate health and help with its functions, reduce pain and discomfort from inflamed prostates and help prevent prostate cancer.

(*) There are types of butt plugs with a ring instead of a flared end, but some people have reported that they can get “sucked in” during extended play, so be careful with those.