Myths, Preparation & Expert Safety Tips
Anal sex has been tagged a taboo for so long that there are waves of myths surrounding the act. Thankfully, health practitioners and the adult entertainment industry have helped prove it as normal, safe, and with better orgasms.
Despite this, improper education still fuels some of these myths, which need to be put to rest. If you’re a beginner and are looking for the ultimate guide on what anal sex truly entails, this is the article for you.
We’ve researched the most common myths surrounding the act, and we’re bringing you hard facts to dispel them. You also get practical techniques to ease you into the experience and the most important precautions to take before you begin!
The Four Most Common Myths And The Truth Behind Them
Anal sex myths are rampant and dangerous if left unchecked. The truth is not far-fetched with proper research, but we’ll simplify it for everyone who wants to embrace this pleasurable act. Anyone who has tried to venture into analplay has heard at least one of the following myths:
Myth 1: Anal sex is always painful
Truth: No, it is not always painful. You’ll feel pain when you’re tense and haven’t properly relaxed or prepared. Lack of preparation means not using lubrication, failure to prepare yourself mentally, and forgetting to massage your perineum before easing into penetration. If you find relaxation hard, try breathing exercises and meditation to get you in the mood. Once you’re relaxed and ready, the next thing is to get a high-quality lube to minimize any discomfort.
Myth 2: It causes permanent damage
Truth: Unless there’s use of excessive force without preparation, no permanent damage will be done to your anus. Just like every muscle in the body, the anus can stretch, accomodate a finger or a huge dildo, and return to normal. However, before you get ahead of yourself, always start small and gradually work up to avoid tears.
Myth 3: Only certain people engage in anal sex
Truth: It’s believed that gay people are the only ones who engage in this act. On the contrary, all genders and sexual orientations engage in the act. The anus is full of nerve endings that can give mind-blowing orgasms, regardless of the gender. Heterosexuals indulge almost as much as queer people, according to studies.
Myth 4: You don’t need preparation or lube
Truth: The most important factor to analplay of any form is the use of lube. No matter what the media has portrayed, you need high-quality lube before you begin anything. Get lube and prepare adequately.
Techniques And Tips To Enhance The Experience
Your favorite pornstars might make it look easy, but it also took them practice with the right techniques and tips to get there.
Some of the most important techniques you’ll need for a better experience include the following:
Always prepare and start slow
The importance of preparation cannot be over-emphasized. An awful experience will begin with you being tense and uncomfortable in the first place. So, you must breathe deeply and relax all your muscles. If you can, meditate.
To ease you into it, you can start foreplay by massaging your perineum and other external erogenous spots to get you in the mood. If you’re going solo, lubricate one finger and insert very gently. Start with circular motions that’ll help relax and stretch your sphincter. Then, you can add more fingers or try small toys (with flared bases and tapered shapes).
Communication is crucial to having a good experience with a partner. If necessary, use safe words or gestures to get your partner to slow down or stop. Pace yourself and find the most comfortable positions to begin.
Lubrication – The Key Factor
Lubrication is never too much with anal sex. Apply it to the anus, your fingers, toys, and partner’s penis before penetration. You also want to use water-based, silicone-based, or oil-based lube. Do not use petroleum-based lubrication. To many experts, silicone-based lubricants are the best as they last longer and give a smoother experience. However, it can’t be used with silicone toys.
Avoid making these mistakes
A common mistake made out of excitement is forceful penetration without preparation. This means no lube, no relaxation, or even cleaning before sex. Doing these can cause injuries and put you at risk of infections. Also, use high-quality lubricants, and do not ever substitute that for saliva. If you’re with a partner, pay attention to their body language.
The Golden Rules Of Safe Practice
It’s important to take precautions and inculcate safe practices before and during anal sex. Some of the golden rules you should know include the following.
Always use lube:
While this may sound repetitive at this point, it should be the foremost safety practice. If you have high-quality lubrication, you’ll avoid discomfort, pain, and injuries.
Hygiene and protection:
It’s important to clean the anus before any form of analplay. Douching is the best method to ensure you’re properly cleaned. Remember to be gentle so you don’t have bruises before you start. Also, use condoms to avoid infections.
Do not alternate between vaginal and anal without cleaning:
It may look hot in porn videos, but it should never be done in practice. You’ll increase you and your partner’s risk of infection if you alternate without first cleaning properly. If you’re wearing a condom, discard it first and clean yourself before alternating.
Take it slow and communicate:
Anal sex requires patience and getting used to for it to be pleasurable. Hence, you should take it slow and gradually take it up a notch. Listening to your body is crucial to avoiding pain and injuries.
Know when to stop:
If you feel any discomfort or pain, you should stop with penetration. An early indication of a bad experience is when your muscles become tense. So, stop when necessary and try again when you’re better prepared.
Conclusion
With these common myths debunked, you can embrace your fantasies and step into a world of unlimited pleasure.
Remember, whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or expert, lube is crucial to having the best experience possible. Be sure to practice proper hygiene for better penetration and reduced risks of infection.
Anal sex remains a personal journey and you must approach it with an open mind. If you have a partner involved, be sure to be on the same level of communication before you start analplay.
