Anal sex or
anal intercourse is a commonly practiced form of human sexual behavior
in some
cultures. It involves the anus and possibly the rectum, especially,
but not limited to, the
insertion of the erect penis into the rectum through the anus.
The use of sex toys and other activities involving the anus and rectum
may be considered
anal sex as well. Anal sex can be pleasurable for both the insertive
partner and the
receptive partner, as the anus contains many of the same kinds of
nerves as the penis or
clitoris.
For women, pleasure is derived from anal intercourse because
the rectum shares a wall with
the vagina and therefore shares some of the nerve endings associated
with sexual pleasure.
The anus itself also contains a number of nerves which can react
pleasurably when excited.
For males, the tightness of the anus is often said to be a
source of pleasure for the
"active" partner in penetrative anal sex, while the presence of the
prostate gland near the
rectal wall is a source of pleasure during receptive anal intercourse.
A sexual climax for
the recipient (referred to colloquially as an anal orgasm) can occur
through anal sex.
Tip: Men can experience the anal orgasm without
engaging in anal sex. An anal sex toy may be used or a woman can stimulate
the prostate gland with her fingers. To do this, begin with some lube
and one finger. When your partner is comfortable insert another finger
and if they desire, three fingers. Hook your fingers up and gently
stroke the prostate gland. The anal orgasm is extremely intense for
males and has nothing at all to do with his sexual orientation.
The vagina normally produces its own lubrication during sex; the
rectum does not, so a
store-bought personal lubricant is recommended by most sexologists for
an enjoyable anal sex
experience. According to the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention and the World Health
Organization, unprotected anal sex carries more risk of STI
transmission than vaginal or
oral sex. To reduce the risk of transmitting STIs such as HIV, proper
use of a latex condom
is recommended for all sexual contact which could result in transfer
of bodily fluids,
including anal sex.
Note: If you are new to anal sex, remember to move slowly and
gently. If it becomes painful,
stop. It is possible to cause damage by too vigorous movement and
moving too quickly. Always use lube! If you want to stop, make it
clear to your partner that stop means stop
beforehand. Never penetrate deeper than 8 inches.
Both men and women find pleasure from anal stimulation. Men in
particular will enjoy the
anal orgasm so don't be put off exploring this area of your sexuality.
Approach it correctly
and enjoy!