Let’s talk about sexual stimulation of the anus - a universally owned, sensitive and pleasurable part of our bodies, yet often underappreciated and hidden behind taboos. When you think about it... does it even get to be called a genital? We all (with very few exceptions) have a body part which is or at least has the potential to be an amazing source of sexual pleasure, yet, we are so anal about it...

No matter where you are at - either an experienced anal sex enthusiast or a shy anus-curious beginner, let’s see what are the basic tips to keep in mind before engaging in anal games. The goal is to gain knowledge, do everything in adequate steps, minimize or completely avoid the discomfort and maximize the pleasure from it. No idea if Freud suggested any particular type of anal stimulation for those who are ‘anally fixated’, but I can definitely guarantee you this - the anxiety about anal sex will definitely diminish, if you follow our tips.

Communication

Enthusiastic consent should be the basic normal about whatever sexual act, but it is especially true about anything related to our asses. Please never ever try to surprise your partner by an unexpected insert, unless you know for sure that they consent to being anally stimulated. Some people generally do not mind, but as you know, the state of rectum varies throughout the day, so it may still be a good idea to check in with your partner whether they are up for this type of play at this particular moment.

Anal games, gender stereotypes and sexual orientation

Let’s agree once and for all to consider anal stimulation just to be one of sex techniques, like kissing - without any gender stereotypes, sexual orientation connotations or power dynamics attached. We all have anuses and if any of us want to experience this, let this be. Unfortunately for many heterosexual couples the idea of anal stimulation when the receptive partner is the man causes somewhat tension, questions about masculinity or doubts about sexual orientation. Anal stimulation is just anal stimulation - a pleasurable activity to receive and give. It does not by itself give provide information on someone’s level of masculinity or femininity, sexual orientation, or whatever else. So if you are a woman and your man is asking for you to insert that finger or put a strap-on, then please see this just as an idea of an additional sex technique in your repertoire. And then make the decision if you are up for this or not. Simple just like that, no need to overthink.

Anal sex toys

If you feel like spicing up your anal games, then the sex toys need to be specifically designed for anal sex, meaning they must have big enough flared bases. Such a shape is created for safety reasons - it prevents the sex toys from being pulled into the intestines. That is very important to keep in mind - if something gets deep enough inside the ass, it will get pulled deeper into the intestines and then the only way to remove such an object will be a surgery. So never risk it, choose sex toys with big enough bases. The mere reason that something is produced for anus, does not guarantee its safety. For that reason be cautious - for example, those cute anal plugs with shiny gems or other small decorative bases may look amazing but can also be easily pushed inside during an intensive vaginal penetration from backwards. Learn to evaluate the safety of sex toys yourself. Don’t experiment with tying up strings or other objects. This is honestly too dangerous to risk.

Hygiene

2x2 rule - if you pooped less than 2 hours ago or more than 2 days ago, most probably this is not a good idea to be the receptive partner. However, these are just general guidelines and individuals should get to know and feel their bodies better. Some people choose to do anal douching before the anal sex attempt. If this option sounds appealing, consider trying it out way in advance - just to understand how your body reacts to this. Do not try it for the first time right before the date. We are all unique, and it may take time to learn what is the best hygiene routine in...