Anal sex is a taboo subject, often even between partners. However, every couple has the right to try and explore what they like, and anal sex is a form of intimacy that, for many people, can be pleasurable.

There is no shame or wrong in wanting to try, nor should that desire be judged. But you need to be informed, because anal sex involves some higher risks than vaginal sex. Find out how safe anal sex is and how to protect yourself for the most enjoyable experience.

What is anal sex?

When we talk about sex, we most often mean vaginal sex. But sexual contact is not limited to vaginal penetration. There are dozens of forms of intimacy couples can choose from that can bring pleasure to both partners. One of these forms is sexual contact with anal penetration.

Anal sex, as the name suggests, refers to a sexual activity that involves penetration of the anus with the penis, fingers or sex toys. Due to the large number of nerve endings located at the level of the sphincter, the area is very sensitive and its stimulation can give partners the sensation of pleasure.

Myths about anal sex

Because it is not as intuitive as vaginal sex, and because of the prejudices that many cultures have propagated over time, anal sex is a controversial topic surrounded by much speculation. Many of them are untrue or only partially true, so let's get rid of some of them:

Myth: Only gay people can have anal sex

Anal sex isn't just for same-sex partners. Couples can choose sex with anal penetration regardless of the gender of the partners, with the penis or with sex toys. Yes, even heterosexual couples can have anal sex, and the activity by which the partner penetrates the partner's anus is called "pegging".

Also, not all gay couples have anal sex – some people don't like this form of intimate contact, regardless of sexual orientation.

Myth: You can't get pregnant from anal sex

This is not entirely a myth, but it is only partially true. Indeed, pregnancy cannot be produced only by anal penetration, respectively by ejaculation at the level of the anus. But any form of unprotected sex that involves the presence of seminal fluid near the vagina can lead to pregnancy.

You are less likely to get pregnant after unprotected anal sex. But there is a possibility that the seminal fluid reaches the perineal area and further into the vagina, which can lead to a pregnancy.

Statistics estimate that about 8% of couples who have unprotected anal sex get an unplanned pregnancy.

Myth: It's harder to get sexually transmitted infections through anal sex

On the contrary, anal sex comes with an equally high, or even higher, risk of contacting sexually transmitted diseases . Due to the high risk of anal injuries, because the tissue of the anus is very sensitive, it increases the risk of infections reaching the body. In general, the person being anally penetrated is at a higher risk of infection than the partner.

The risks of anal sex

Anal sex also involves some higher risks than vaginal sex. This doesn't mean you should be scared or that you shouldn't have anal sex because it's dangerous. But it just means that you need to be informed about these risks and how they can be avoided, so that you can protect yourself from them.

Anal fissures

Anal fissures often occur after anal sex. Because the tissue of the anus is very sensitive, inserting any foreign body inside it – even a penis or sex toys – can cause injury. These small cracks or cuts can cause intense pain, itching, irritation and bleeding.

Infections

Because of the risk of anal fissures, anal penetration also increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections. According to specialists, anal sex represents the sexual behavior with the greatest risk of transmitting HIV infection from an infected partner.

It's also easier to transfer bacteria and viruses from the anus to the vagina during anal sex, so you're more likely to develop vaginal infections as well. Gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, e-coli, viral hepatitis B and C, parasitic infections and others can be transmitted.

Perforation of the colon

Although rare, the risk of colon perforation exists. It manifests itself following anal sexual contact through profuse rectal bleeding that persists and abdominal pain, and requires emergency treatment.

Tips for safe anal sex

As I told you above, the fact that there are certain risks associated with anal sex does not mean that you should stop doing it at all or be afraid of this form of intimacy. Practiced safely and with the consent of all partners involved, anal sex can be a source of pleasure and new sensations.

Here are some tips to explore such an experience safely:

• Communicate with your partner. Always make sure you want the same thing and respect your partner's wishes. Just because a person has consented once doesn't mean they want it every time. Always discuss to avoid pressure, confusion and misunderstandings.

• Use the condom. Using a condom gives you protection against sexually transmitted infections. Also, after anal penetration, changing the condom before vaginal penetration decreases the risk of bacterial transmission and vaginal infections.

• Use lubricant. Unlike the vagina, the anus does not naturally lubricate itself. Use a water-based lubricant before penetration to reduce friction and the associated risk of anal fissures.

• Be patient. Like any form of intimacy, anal sex can become more enjoyable as partners gain experience. So be patient and stop when pain or discomfort occurs, or when one partner no longer wants to continue. Progress gradually and resume the activity only when you feel ready.

Complications of anal sex

The risks involved in anal sex in women, but also in men, can turn into complications when ignored. If you experience any of these, see your doctor as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment:

• Irritation and pain following penetration

• Bleeding from anal fissures or hemorrhoids

• Transit problems due to pain sensation

Frequently asked questions about anal sex

We want to speak as openly as possible and leave no unanswered questions. So we've taken the most frequently asked questions about anal sex and answered each dilemma in turn.

Can I orgasm through anal sex?

Like any form of sex, anal sex can bring you pleasure and lead to orgasm. The nerve endings of the clitoris extend to the level of the anus, and therefore anal stimulation can be very pleasant. Keep in mind, however, that whether we're talking about anal or vaginal sex, most women can only orgasm if penetration is accompanied by clitoral stimulation.

Should anal sex hurt?

Not. It is a confusion that comes from the fact that anal sex is considered against the "laws of nature". Sure, you may feel discomfort or an unusual sensation during anal penetration, especially at first. But the truth is, anal sex shouldn't be painful.

Pain is a signal that something is wrong. This may mean that you need lube, that there are anal fissures or irritations, or simply that your rectal muscles are tense and you need to relax.

Do I have to wear a condom?

It is recommended that you always wear a condom when having anal sex to prevent the spread of bacteria and sexually transmitted infections, but also to ensure that there is no risk of unwanted pregnancy.

Is bleeding after anal sex normal?

Light bleeding after sexual contact may indicate injury, while heavy bleeding accompanied by severe pain may even signal perforation of the colon. The fact is that the bleeding is not normal. If it does not stop or is accompanied by other forms of discomfort, go to the doctor urgently.

Can anal sex cause cancer?

Anal sex can increase the risk of contacting the HPV virus, which in turn can support the development of cancer.

Can anal sex cause HIV?

Anal penetration itself does not directly cause HIV. But unprotected anal sex increases the risk of HIV transmission if one of the partners is already infected. It is considered the form of sex with the highest risk of transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus. It is advisable to always protect yourself with a condom to avoid infection.

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