Does Anal Sex Hurt?

Anal sex is a sexual practice in which the penis penetrates the anus of a sexual partner for pleasure.

Written and verified by the philosopher Isbelia Esther Farías López.

Last update: 01 August, 2022

Anal sex is a sexual practice that’s been taboo for centuries. So much so that people are still afraid to even hear about it. Mainly given the lack of information they have about it and, above all, the idea that it’s too painful.

However, there are couples who enjoy this practice and it isn’t painful. Ok so, how do they do it? It’s all very simple if you keep a few things in mind and exercise some care.

Next, let’s find out if anal sex is a pleasant activity and how can you do it safely to enjoy a pleasant sexual encounter. Also, we will review what risks you expose yourself to when you don’t take a few measures into account.

Can anal sex be pleasant?

Anal penetration can be very pleasant as long as you keep a few things in mind. In this regard, the Institute of Human Sexuality of the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo indicates the following:

• You must include foreplay and stimulation so that the anus progressively dilates. Usually, masturbation is used to excite your sexual partner and, in turn, help relax their muscles.
• Use appropriate lubricants for the area (water-based) to facilitate penetration. Note that the application of the lubricant can also serve as foreplay. Don’t use saliva at all.
• Choose an appropriate penetration angle (that is, a comfortable posture, such as the doggy-style).
• Always use a condom!
• Gently and slowly insert the penis into the anus.
• Don’t make any sudden movements.

In regard to hygiene

• Of course,hygiene is essential at all times: before, during, and after sex.
  • Try to empty your bowels before practicing anal sex.
  • Your partner’s anus must be clean. Washing it with soap and water is sufficient.
  • If fingers will be used for anal stimulation, these should not only be clean but also well-groomed and manicured to avoid scratches and other possible injuries when handling this delicate area during stimulation.
• Don’t penetrate the vagina during anal sex or afterward (unless you properly clean the penis first).
• There are certain practices you should avoid since they also pose a high risk of infection:
  • Fisting: This is an extreme practice in which people seek pleasure by dilating the anus by inserting all their fingers, then the hand, and, finally, the fist.
  • Creampie: This means ejaculating in the anus.
  • Anilingus: Colloquially known as ” the black kiss,” this is about stimulating the anus with the lips and tongue.

Anal sex is only painful when not done carefully

If you have anal sex without prior stimulation and you’re being too rough or going too fast, the muscles won’t relax and the friction will be painful. The sphincter will remain tight. Therefore, it’s recommended to do some foreplay before trying to proceed with anal penetration delicately.

Clearly, the anus doesn’t produce natural lubrication for sexual intercourse, as the vagina does. Hence the importance of using a suitable lubricant for this area. In addition, you must penetrate slowly and carefully, without forceful thrusts or sudden movements in general.

For some couples, the ideal complement for anal sex is masturbation. This way, pleasure intensifies, the muscles relax, and, of course, it promotes anal dilation.

Once again, remember that anal sex can be painful and lead to health problems if done wrong. It can bring consequences such as anal fissures, tears, hemorrhages, and the spread of STDs. Therefore, whoever wants to enjoy anal sex must do it with caution.

There’s nothing wrong if your partner isn’t comfortable with anal sex. You can always talk about it on another occasion to see if they’re willing to try it one more time. If they’re clearly not interested, you can look for other ways to spice things up together in bed. Anal sex should never be an obligation.