Things You Need To Know About Anal Sex

1 out of 3 women does it, but hardly anybody talks about it. We’d love to fill you in.

It may become a taboo less and less, but it still isn’t a subject people casual talk about: anal sex. When I wanted to know more about doing it the Greek way I waited until my gay BFF was so drunk he would share all his secrets (‘Alotttofffluuuuuube’). After that I tried to get some info from my casual sex buddy who just couldn’t stop talking about his South American ex-girlfriend who was into ANYthing. Ten years later I am in a serious relationship with a guy I can talk to about everything. But with friends, some of them I’ve known much longer than my guy, the subject is still not on the table. And at least one of us is doing it: according to a survey published in a 2015 issue of the Journal of Sexual Medicine more than 1 in 3 women ages 19 to 44 has tried it at least once.

So talking about it still makes us uncomfortable, but the subject is mainstream enough to be researched and written about. We read all the advice the professionals have given on the subject and gathered the best info for you to know about anal sex.

1. It shouldn’t hurt.
It may feel like an odd sensation, but done correctly, anal sex should not be painful. Skip experimenting if you have hemorrhoids or are having digestive issues, and use plenty of lube. Unlike the vagina, the anus doesn’t create its own lubrication during arousal. Try silicone-based lube; it’s thicker and won’t dry out the way water-based lubes can.

2. Start slowly.
Relax! Try it out after you’ve already climaxed, when your body is relaxed. Or take a shower together, and allow your partner to gently massage the area with a soapy finger. Experimenting in the tub or shower can also make you feel “clean” ( yes, I’m talking about the poop) although if you’ve had a recent bowel movement, you shouldn’t worry about your partner hitting any fecal matter. Any trace remains will be removed through washing. Experts say you can skip an enema. A recent toilet visit and soap and water is all you need. An enema can be unnecessarily complicated and may irritate your anus and intestinal lining, say experts.

3. Try a toy.
Toys can be a great way to explore anal play. Make sure you find a toy suited for anal sex that has a base that flares out. Unlike the vaginal canal, which is closed, the anal canal is open and a toy get stuck in your body. We all heard the stories, we even saw the pictures. Trying a small anal plug can get your body used to the sensation of fullness and let you determine whether or not it’s pleasurable for you.

4. Use condoms.
Even if you’re in a monogamous relationship, condoms are a good idea when it comes to anal sex. Why? For one, they reduce friction to provide a smoother entry. Second, since anal tissue is fragile and susceptible to microscopic tears, having anal sex without a condom could cause the bacteria already in your anal canal to enter your bloodstream. And of course: use a separate condom for each sex act slash hole. Just be sure not to use an oil-based lube with a condom, since the oil could degrade the latex and cause the condom to break.

And not unimportant :

5. It may cause an orgasm.
For some women, the act can feel incredibly sensual. The anus has a rich nerve supply, which can make things feel very intense and, for some women, result in an orgasm. Some last advice: Aren’t into it? Don’t do it. Although plenty of women find it pleasurable, it’s not an essential to cross off your sex bucket list. Sex is supposed to be fun, and if the idea doesn’t turn you on, it’s totally fine to stick to your repertoire of what works. And there is lots more to experiment right?