Anal Safety: The Complete, Unembarrassed Guide

Anal play is increasingly popular, yet most people never received any real education about it. The result: unnecessary anxiety and avoidable mistakes. Here is the honest guide.

The Golden Rules

• Go slow -- Always start smaller than you think. A finger or small plug before anything larger.
• Use lots of lube -- Generous, generous, generous. The anus never produces its own lubrication.
• Relax the sphincter -- Tensing up is the #1 reason anal hurts. Warm up with external massage first. Breathe.
• Never go from anal to vaginal play without changing the condom -- Bacteria in the rectum can cause serious vaginal infections.
• Stop if it hurts -- Pain is a signal. Unlike vaginal play, discomfort here is almost always a sign something needs adjustment.

Start with Butt Plugs

Look for: tapered tips for easy insertion, a narrower neck so the sphincter can hold the toy in place, and a flared base for safety. Silicone is the best material.