anal sex

The term anal sex is a generic term that describes a variety of sexual acts, including acts between homosexual men, lesbian women and heterosexual partners. Anal sex between heterosexual partners can include the male inserting his penis into the woman's anus, and the woman inserting a strap-on dildo into the man's anus. This sexual act is known as pegging and is often combined with some form of bondage to restrain the male partner.

Anal sex usually refers to anal intercourse: the insertion of a penis into the rectum of either a man or a woman - called the receiver. Men enjoy giving anal sex because the anal passage is very tight. This creates a lot of friction. There are also strong psychological and cultural taboos against anal sex. This can add to the level of arousal experienced. The receiver can gain physical pleasure from the stretching of the anal passage. Men have the additional advantage of the prostrate gland. Stimulation of the prostrate gland can result in orgasm without the need for stimulation of the penis and always contributes to the overall pleasure of the sexual act. Threesomes combine anal sex with oral sex giving simultaneous stimulation of the prostrate gland and the penis glans.

Anal sex is not without risk, as the rectal tissues are very vulnerable to damage and there are obvious hygiene issues. The physical damage takes the form of ano-rectal trauma such as anal fissure and rectal prolapse. Some people believe that anal sex also causes hemorrhoids, although this is open to debate. Anal sex will certainly inflame existing hemorrhoids and great care needs to be taken if you suffer from this condition. The simplest way to reduce the risk of physical damage is to ensure the use of sufficient sexual lubricant. Lubrication comes in two forms: water based, and oil based. If using latex condoms or latex anal toys, it is important to use a water based lubrication. Oil based lubricants can chemically attack latex rubber. There have also been fears that anal sex increases the risk of incontinence. However, recent research has found no link between anal sex and incontinence.

Infectious disease is a major problem with anal sex. The infectious nature of fecal matter is a cause for concern, in addition to sexually transmitted disease. It is important that the anus and penis are thoroughly cleaned both before and after anal sex. Anal toys should also be carefully cleaned. Many people also use an enema prior to anal sex in an attempt to reduce the risk of contact between the penis and any fecal matter that might remain in the rectum.