A dildo is a sex toy , often explicitly phallic in appearance, intended for sexual penetration or other sexual activity during masturbation or with sex partners. Dildos can be made from a number of materials and shaped similarly to an erect human penis. They are typically about the average length of an erect penis , 4β6 inches 10β15 cm , but some may be longer. A dildo's circumference is typically 4β5 inches 10β13 cm. A dildo is an object usually designed for sexual penetration of the vagina , mouth, or anus , and is usually solid and phallic in shape.
Penis prosthetic aids, known as "extensions", are not considered dildos. Some include penis-shaped items clearly designed for vaginal penetration , even if they are not true approximations of a penis. An anal dildo is intended for repeated anal penetration, to be distinguished from a butt plug which is flanged with the intent of remaining in place. People of all genders and sexual orientations use these devices for masturbation or other sexual activity.
Phallus-shaped vegetables and fruits, such as bananas or zucchini or other food items, such as hot dogs or other types of sausages, have been used as dildos in a form of food play. Any object of sufficient firmness and shape can be used like a dildo. Conventionally, many dildos are shaped like a human penis with varying degrees of detail, while others are made to resemble the phallus of animals. Not all, however, are fashioned to reproduce the male anatomy meticulously, and dildos come in a wide variety of shapes.
They may resemble figures, or simply be practical creations which stimulate more easily than conventional designs. In Japan , many dildos are created to resemble animals or cartoon characters, such as Hello Kitty , so that they may be sold as conventional toys, thus avoiding obscenity laws. Some dildos have textured surfaces to enhance sexual pleasure, and others have macrophallic dimensions including over 12 inches In research was published into the average size that a sample of women preferred for their partner's penis.
The research used 3D-printed plastic penises of various sizes rather than commercially sold dildos. The average result was around 6. Starting in , 3D models of dildos became available for printing by individuals. The advantage of printing at home was not only personalization but also discretion. This, however, did not take off at that time, in part due to the porosity issue of the materials used which is mainly a problem if no condom is used over the dildo.
