Anal sex can be a pleasurable experience when done right. But it’s important to communicate with your partner about what feels good and what doesn’t.
Unlike the vagina, the anus does not self-lubricate. Without sufficient lubrication, backdoor penetration with a finger or sex toy can cause painful friction that can lead to tiny tears in the delicate tissue.
Lubrication
It’s no secret that anal sex can be messy, but with some thoughtful planning it doesn’t have to be. It’s important to have a clean, comfortable place to play, as well as the right lube and toys for anal penetration. This can reduce friction and help make for a smooth, orgasmic experience.
The anus doesn’t have as much natural lubrication as the penis, so a little extra help is key for making anal sex feel good. It’s a good idea to apply lube liberally during foreplay and prior to anal penetration, as well as throughout anal intercourse to keep things smooth. When it comes to lube, the more you use, the better, but it’s also important to choose a high-quality anal lube such as silicone, which is the safest choice for erotic play because it’s thicker and longer lasting than most other types of lubrication.
It’s also a good idea to start slowly when exploring anal sex with a new partner to reduce the risk of injury and discomfort. It’s also a great idea to communicate with your partner about what feels good and what doesn’t, as well as talk about how you both want to protect yourself from STIs (and make sure you’re on the same page about using condoms, oral sex, or barrier methods like dental dams). If anal sex is painful, it’s not pleasurable and should be stopped.
Fissures
Fissures near the anus can cause pain and a burning sensation during anal sex. The pain may be due to the friction of anal penetration or a hernia. It may also be a sign of a sexually transmitted infection, such as anal warts or chlamydia. The pain and bleeding can be relieved by using lubricants or anti-itch ointments. Taking anal sex slowly can reduce the risk of injury and help make it more pleasurable.
Fissions can also result from trauma to the area. This includes childbirth, anal sex and passing large or hard stools. Some anal fissures heal on their own. But others become chronic and need treatment.
Anal fissures can be diagnosed by a physical exam and a medical history. Your doctor may insert a lubricated gloved finger into your anus to feel for tenderness or muscle spasms. Your doctor may also use an internal rectal exam or an anoscope to see the area.
Fissures can be prevented by having a healthy diet that includes plenty of fiber. It’s also important to avoid constipation. Avoiding anal sex during constipation and wearing loose underwear can prevent irritation of the anus. If an anal fissure is painful or does not heal, your doctor can treat it with medicines or surgery. A surgical procedure called a sphincterotomy can cut the muscles that hold the anus closed. Another surgery, anal advancement flaps, involves removing healthy skin from around the anus and using it to patch the anal opening.
Stress
Especially for first-timers, anal sex can be nerve-wracking. If you’re already feeling uncomfortable, the last thing you want is to tense up and make the pain worse. That’s why it’s a good idea to communicate with your partner throughout the process. Tell them what feels right and wrong, so they can adjust the angle of penetration and speed of penetration to make it more comfortable for you.
It’s also important to make sure that you and your partner are on the same page about what you want from the anal sex experience. You may want to try different positions, toys, or lubes to see what works for you. And, of course, don’t be afraid to stop if you’re no longer enjoying it.
Finally, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for a little bit of mess after anal sex. You can keep some wipes nearby to clean up any poop that gets on your fingers or sex toys. Just be careful not to wipe too hard or you could damage your anus.
Overall, anal sex is safe and fun when it’s done correctly. Just remember to use plenty of lube, go slowly, and talk about your expectations beforehand. If you’re worried about burning or any other issue, ask a healthcare professional for advice. And don’t forget to use condoms to protect yourself from STIs like HIV.
Infections
Some anal sex can be painful, especially if someone isn’t used to it. Using plenty of lubricant, starting slow with fingers or small sex toys, and communicating with a partner can make anal penetration more comfortable. Some people can even find it pleasurable, and using a condom helps prevent STIs and other infections.
A common reason that anal sex hurts is from irritation or infection. This can be from fecal matter that gets stuck under the skin or from trauma caused by wiping after bowel movements. It can also be from sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and anal warts. Some individuals are allergic to lubricants or condoms, which can cause pain and burning.
It’s important to remember that not everyone will enjoy anal sex, and it’s okay to stop if it hurts. However, with a gentle approach and plenty of lube, anal sex can feel great for many people. Having anal sex is one of the most intimate things that a person can do with another person, and it should always be done with enthusiastic consent. No sex should ever be painful, and if you’re experiencing pain during anal sex, it’s important to seek medical assistance as soon as possible. Your healthcare provider can help you figure out what’s causing the discomfort and recommend treatment options.
