Anal Sex

Back to Basics: What is Anal Sex?

Anal sex is quite basically having sex with anal penetration (most commonly with a penis). Anyone can try an anal sex position, having a penis isn't even necessary, as many couples also enjoy using a dildo or strap-on. The important thing to remember is that while anal sex can be fun and incredibly pleasurable, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure it's the best it can be for you and your partner.

Where do you begin when it comes to anal sex?

It's important to start small and err on the side of caution. Here are some key tips:

• No matter how confident someone is, the tightness of the anus muscle varies from person to person. So starting off too enthusiastically may actually cause pain.
• Consider using a finger or small toy to begin with – but make sure it is one that has a flared base, so there is no risk of losing the toy. Another way to start off gentle is with rimming, or stimulating the area with your tongue. This will get the area relaxed and more comfortable with contact, which is especially important for complete beginners.
• Working your way up towards a butt plug or larger toy is an important step to not only stretching the ring of muscle at the anus, but also to help adjust to the sense of fullness anal penetration can create.

There's no fixed timeline on when you should be ready for a penis or dildo, it really comes down to each individual and what they are comfortable with. Additionally, there's really no point in rushing the process, as this might lead to hurting yourself and that will set you back to the beginning, or worse, require medical care.

What are the best anal sex positions?

While there are the classic positions like on all fours or lying on your stomach, it's also just as enjoyable to be on top during anal sex. In a similar way to the cowgirl position, being penetrated while on top during anal sex can offer a sense of control over the depth and speed of penetration.

Shit happens – How to prepare for anal sex

It's the first time anal sex is on the menu? While porn and movies can make anal sex seem easy and mess-free, the reality can be quite different. That's no reason to avoid it, instead it just means some preparation is necessary.

There's no need to fast or starve yourself before getting intimate, it's unlikely that fecal matter will be an issue – so long as there is no diarrhea or urgent need to hit the bathroom. And is it so bad if things do get messy? One partner might feel embarrassed if anything does appear, so make an effort to be relaxed and even humorous about it – after all, shit happens!

Anal sex toys - Vibrators, plugs, oh my!

When it comes to toys for anal play, there are a few you should add to your collection ASAP.

1. Plugs: Whether they're vibrating or keeping it more simple, plugs are a great way to relax the anal area and liven up foreplay.
2. Vibes: Vibrators can send stimulating pulses through the sensitive anal area and help get your partner in the mood too. Just remember, a flared base is necessary to ensure nothing gets stuck!
3. Body massagers: While it's nice to focus on the anus and tense anal muscles, an all-over massager can help relax things and set the mood with some fun pampering in the neighboring zones.