| Exploring Anal Sex Anal play can be incredibly pleasurable -- the anal opening is full of sensitive nerve endings that respond pleasurably to stimulation. In women, the clitoral legs beneath the skin's surface reach all the way to the anus, heightening pleasure. In men, the prostate gland resides just inside the anal opening, toward the front of the body, and many men say that orgasms that include prostate stimulation are powerful and focused. The notion of anal stimulation brings up fears and taboos for many people. Pain is at the top of the list, and we're here to assure you that anal penetration, when done correctly, is not painful and feels delightful. To minimize discomfort, always go very slow and take the time to relax your sphincter. It helps if you're already aroused when you begin. With whatever you use for penetration, start small, and always use plenty of lubricant. If you experience pain, then either a) you're going too fast, b) you need more lube, c) you're not relaxed or turned on enough, or d) you may still be feeling unsure. Learn the facts about anal sex myths in the Ten Rules of Anal Sex. Another big issue is cleanliness, which can be addressed by a warm bath or shower before sex, and the incorporation of safer sex supplies. Latex or non-latex gloves make cleanup a snap, help keep sex safe, and create a smooth surface that feels fantastic to the person you're touching. Finger cots are little finger condoms that are great for when you want to use one finger, and are easy to take on and off. For now, finger cots only come in latex. Safety is extremely important. Anything you insert should be smooth and free of rough edges, including toys and fingernails. Never insert something into the anus that doesn't have a flared base to keep it from going all the way in. The sphincter muscles squeeze and release involuntarily, so they push and pull things in and out of the anus without your control. Lubed-up sex toys will slip in and get "lost" which can result in a trip to the doctor's office. This rule is especially true with egg-shaped vibrators -- they cannot be pulled out by the cord; the cord will yank out of the egg. Only use toys safe for anal use. Also, never transfer toys from anus to vagina. Begin at the end! 
Lubes
 Anal pleasure necessitates lubricant, and the best kind to use are thick, water-based or silicone gels. These are our favorite picks.
Plugs
Start small and work your way up!
Vibrators
Vibration feels delicious on the sensitive anal opening.
Dildos
The flared base of a harness-compatible dildo makes a perfect anal toy, with or without the harness.
Books
Erotica, How-Tos, and Kinky reads that include hot anal sections. Learn how from the pros, and pick up the details to make your anal exploits sizzle.
Videos
Watch and learn, or just watch and get off.
Anal Beads
Some people love the feeling of slowly inserting one bead at a time as their arousal builds, then pulling the string out right before (or during) orgasm.
Kits
Get all your needs met with one lovely bundle. |  | |
