Anal sex involves inserting the penis in the anus of your sex partner. This sexual practice is now becoming increasingly popular, and many couples actually prefer to have sex in this position rather than simply through vaginal intercourse. Learn more about anal sex and some of its pros and cons.

The rising popularity of anal sex

Every year we see new sex myths being demystified and demolished. Sexual practices that were once considered to be taboo are now openly discussed in the media. In the good old days, people used to talk about blow jobs in hushed whispers, now you wouldn’t stop and listen if they were shouting about it from the rooftops. Anal sex has now joined the bandwagon of open bedroom secrets, as researchers report that this sexual practice is gradually getting to be a regular feature in the sex lives of both straight and gay couples. Surveys have shown that the number of men and women engaging in anal sex has grown phenomenally in the last decade.

Things to take care of while indulging in anal sex

• Anal sex can be uncomfortable and painful, but these tips can help improve your experience, particularly if you are a first timer.
• Try and defecate as much as possible the first thing in the morning.
• Increase your fluid intake but there is no need to starve yourself.
• Take an enema and flush everything out of your rectum, as far as you can. This is especially true if you have had a lot to drink in the last couple of days.
• Lubrication is a must with anal sex, regardless of what your favourite porn stars do. A silicone based lubricant works better than a water based one because it lasts longer. You only need to use a small amount. Silicone based lubes tend to get messy but last longer and give more lubrication.
• If you have never done anal sex before, you need to go slowly and gently the first time. Your anus is much tighter than your vagina, so you need to be physically relaxed and comfortable before making a move. If your pectoral muscles get tight, no amount of lubrication is going to make the slightest difference.

Sex toys to aid in anal pleasure

Sex toys help you learn and master the nuances of anal sex, whether you use them by yourself or with a partner. Butt plugs, for instance, are basic anal toys that can be used by men as well as women. Anal beads contract your sphincter muscles in order to produce an orgasm. Anal dildos along with a strap on work well for beginners and you can use them for masturbation as well as for intercourse.

Anal pleasure vs. conventional vaginal pleasure

Anal pleasure adds some much-needed variety to your sex life; most couples using this technique because they were bored with conventional vaginal sex. But on the flip side, sexually transmitted diseases spread far more easily through anal sex than through vaginal intercourse. Another point against anal sex is that you run the risk of tearing the anus and causing yourself an injury. Unlike the vagina, the anus does not have any natural lubrication, so you need to use generous amounts of artificial lubes to reduce the discomfort. It is possible to enjoy both vaginal pleasure and anal pleasure at the same time, provided your partner wears a condom all the time.

The pros and cons of anal pleasure

Pro – Many people find anal sex pleasurable – some people achieve orgasm more easily with anal sex.
Con – Others find it uncomfortable and downright painful.

Pro – Anal sex is considered to be an effective way to preserve female virginity since it does not rupture the hymen.
Con – It is considered to be one of the most risky sexual practices, particularly if you aren’t wearing any protection.

Pro – Men are more likely to enjoy anal sex because the anus is tighter than the vagina.
Con – Women have diverse viewpoints about this, with some preferring it over vaginal sex and others opposing it for the pain and discomfort it causes.