All about anal sex

Today, we’re talking about sexual activity that involves your butt. 

Anal play can be enjoyed by anyone of any gender or orientation and can be:

• Putting fingers or a tongue (rimming) around/inside someone’s butt
• Putting a dildo or other sex toy inside someone’s butt
• Putting a penis inside someone’s butt

There are a few things that you need to know before exploring anal sex

• Make sure you ask your partner what they are comfortable to try. Talk to them about what you want to do. And keep checking that you’re both happy and enjoying it throughout
• Lube, Lube, Lube! Don’t start without a good water-based lube – you can get it wherever you get your condoms
• Start gently, the anus is very sensitive and can tear easily
• If something doesn’t feel right or makes you uncomfortable let your partner know. Anal play shouldn’t hurt if you are gentle and use heaps of lube
• If you’re not sure about anal play, try by yourself first to work out what feels good for you
• If you are using toys, buy good quality and always remember to use a condom on the toy. Start small and then work your way up
• When switching between playing with the anus and genitals, make sure you get a fresh condom (on your penis or the toy), and wash your hands – hygiene is super important!
• Even if there’s no penetration with the penis, you can still get STIs like herpes, chlamydia and gonorrhoea from anal play. Protect yourself by using a condom on shared toys or dam when rimming
• Oh, and there could be a little bit of poop or unusual sounds! That’s perfectly normal and laughing about it will help take away the embarrassment. Taking a shower before or during will help keep things fresh

Most importantly, sex is meant to be enjoyable for everyone involved.  Keeping yourself safe shows that you care about yourself and your partner

Remember to always use a condom, talk first and know when you need to get a sexual health check-up.

If you want to know more you can ring 1800 451 624 between 9:00am and 5:30pm Monday to Friday to talk with a sexual health nurse. It’s confidential and free if you call from a landline.