Anal sex
Hear this word Anal sex
Also known as: Butt play, rimming (oral)
Image description: Two figures representing sexual partners having anal sex.
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An Example
Farrah and Bentin sometimes have anal sex. They use condoms and they use lubricant to protect the sensitive skin around the anus. They prefer to put some lubricant on the outside and inside of condoms. The lubricant helps both of them to feel more comfortable.
Placing a few drops of lubricant inside and outside of an internal condom
What to Know
Every glossary word connects to different parts of the Sexuality Wheel. Explore the information below to learn more.
- Some people enjoy anal sex, and some people do not enjoy anal sex. Some people never want to try anal sex, and some people want to try anal sex one day.
- Sexual partners should communicate about what they like, dislike, and their boundaries before doing any sexual activities together, including anal sex.
- Make sure there is consent between partners before and during all sexual activities, including anal sex.
- Some people use lubricant during anal sex to be more comfortable and for a more slippery feel.
- Use a water-based lubricant, when using internal or external condoms during anal sex.
- If a sex toy is inserted into the anus, part of the toy should stay outside of the body for easy removal. Sometimes sex toys made for the anus have a wider end that stays outside of the body.
Think about
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If people want to try a new sexual activity, what could they talk about first with their partner?
- Getting tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Safer sex methods such as condoms, dental dams, and latex gloves.
- Making sure there is consent before and during the activity.
If people do not want to do the same types of sexual activities, what should the partners do?
- They should avoid pressuring their partner to do that activity.
- They can come up with other activities to do with their partner.
- They can keep the other ideas in mind for fantasy or masturbation.
- They can think about whether the relationship should continue or whether they should find new partners.