Anal Sex 101: What You Need to Know
Working in the adult industry, I often receive questions from customers, friends, and even family about having anal sex for the first time. Whether you're eager to try it or feeling apprehensive, this blog is dedicated to addressing your concerns and providing the essential information you need.
Anal sex is not a new fad; it's been practiced for centuries across all sexual orientations. Despite its history, it still carries a stigma or taboo in many cultures, and in some places, it's even legally forbidden. Before you embark on this journey, it's important to reflect on your own feelings and ensure you're entering into this activity willingly and with the right mindset.
Once you've decided to proceed, you can relax knowing there are steps you can take and products available to make the experience enjoyable. With adequate preparation, mutual respect, clear communication about expectations and boundaries, and good hygiene, you're well on your way to becoming an anal enthusiast!
This blog focuses on the most important aspect of a comfortable and safe experience: good hygiene.
Tip 1 – Get Clean
Preparation is key when it comes to anal sex. While it's rare, sometimes anal sex can get a bit messy. To avoid any embarrassment and to ensure a pleasant experience, it's crucial to be as clean as possible.
You don't need fancy equipment to get clean. Some people prefer to use water and clean themselves in the shower with a warm, soapy finger. Others might use an anal douche a day before, and again 1-2 hours before engaging in anal activities. Whether you choose to clean yourself or use a douche, both methods are effective.
To use a douche, fill the reservoir with warm water (cold water can cause cramping, and hot water can cause internal tissue damage). If you have filtered water, use it; otherwise, drinkable tap water is fine. Lubricate the douche nozzle with a good anal lubricant, insert, and squeeze the bulb for 10-20 seconds, then release. Remember, you only need to clean the first 5-8 cm, so don't overfill the anal cavity.
Expect some mess as the contents of your lower colon are released with the water. You might want to use the douche in the shower or over the toilet. Ensure you allow several hours for any trapped water and air to come out before engaging in anal play.
Tip 2 – Put Down a Sheet or Towel
For peace of mind, lay a sheet or towel across the bed or chosen area before engaging in anal activities. This protects against accidents or squirting, helping you to relax and enjoy the experience.
Tip 3 – No Double Dipping
E. coli bacteria live naturally in the gut and can cause infections if transferred to the urethra. This is more common in women due to their shorter urethra. Avoid "double dipping" (switching from anal to vaginal play without cleaning) to prevent the risk of bacterial infections. Using an antibacterial lubricant can help, but the best practice is to wash thoroughly after anal sex before engaging in vaginal activities.
Tip 4 – Try Gloves
Using gloves during anal play can enhance cleanliness and comfort. Gloves minimize the risk of cuts from nails, prevent bacteria transfer, and can make the experience more pleasant with ample lubricant. They are also useful for switching from anal to vaginal play—simply remove the gloves and continue. Non-latex alternatives are available for those with latex allergies.
Tip 5 – Keep Calm, Clean Up, and Continue On
If an accident happens, stay calm and reassure each other. Clean up promptly and take a shower to feel refreshed. Restart the activities by playing a kinky sex game, using sex toys, or changing into new lingerie to reignite the passion.
The Next Phase
Once you're comfortable with anal sex, you might want to experiment with anal sex toys like butt plugs and anal beads. Bondage kits are popular and offer a way to explore restraint, control games, and various sex toys, including anal toys. Always use ample lubricant and let your imagination guide you to new places of intimacy and sexual exploration.
Have fun and enjoy the wonderful sensations that anal sex has to offer!
