Rimming can provide some lubrication and helps the anus relax before sex. If you decide to use one, make sure that you’re careful that the wide base does not tear anal muscle fibers. I don’t recommend butt plugs that get wider at the base. Opt for softer latex toys that are much less likely to cause trauma than ones made with more rigid materials. Be careful, too, that the toy is not larger than your partner’s penis or strap-on - and if you’re new to anal, start small and work your way up. Passing them back and forth between partners without thoroughly washing them can spread STIs. Toys present an excellent way to prepare and relax before intercourse, but they can easily cause trauma if used incorrectly, and even spread infections if shared. That’s why it’s important to relax your anus before penetration using various foreplay techniques and to keep your anus relaxed and well-lubricated while bottoming.
If your anus is too tightly contracted when you are first penetrated, you’ll run the risk of tearing skin or damaging your sphincter.
This can fill the rectum with liquid stool, running the risk that you will have a messy experience. The human colon is 5 feet long and you don’t have to clean the stool out of the entire colon! If you try to clean high up, the water will mix with the stool. Most importantly, only use a small volume of water (you can try the little bulbs that are sold in drug stores to clean out your ears). Ensure that there is no soap in the enema, as this can cause more irritation. Make sure to use warm water so that your sphincters don’t tighten, but don’t make it so hot that you will burn yourself (I’ve seen several patients burn their rectum from hot enemas!). Therefore, it’s important to choose an enema that has a smooth nozzle to prevent cuts and nicks. Second, keep in mind that after the enema is about 1.5 inches inside, you won’t feel sharp pain - that’s because your rectum doesn’t have this type of pain receptor. First, it’s important to lube up so that you don’t damage the anal wall. If you just read this paragraph, rolled your eyes, and still plan to use enemas, there are steps you can take to mitigate the risks.
If you don’t feel like you need to go to the bathroom (we’re talking number two here, people), the rectum is likely empty, and you will be ready for anal sex. Additionally, among subjects who performed 50 or more enemas in their lifetime, there is a trend for increased risk of anal dysplasia (which can lead to anal warts and anal cancer). In fact, rectal biopsies have found that individuals who performed enemas with tap water or soap suds show deterioration in their intestinal lining, resulting in increased susceptibility to pathogens. Enemas increase your risk of acquiring infections, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, hepatitis and even HIV. While enemas may seem like a logical way to avoid an embarrassing interaction, I strongly advise against them. In general, men should consume 30-40 grams of fiber per day, and women should consume 25-30 grams of fiber per day.ĭue to the common fear of excrement rubbing off on one’s partner, many people perform enemas (whereby they inject liquid into the rectum) before engaging in anal sex. Fiber helps bulk up stool and decreases liquidity, further minimizing the chance of a mess. It’s also helpful to consistently eat a high fiber diet that includes foods such as whole grains, broccoli, and beans - as this regulates bowel movements and decreases the likelihood of soiling during sex. So forget the harsh scents and chemicals - before sex, simply clean the outside of the anus well in the shower or bath with plain water or a very gentle soap. In fact, chemical wipes and over wiping are the most common causes of anal itch (if you haven’t experienced this…trust me, you don’t want to). This causes the skin around the anus to become inflamed, leading to thickening and ultimately itching or discomfort with sex. Common mistakes I see patients make include using chemical wipes (the perfumes and preservatives make them irritating) and wiping too much (friction can lead to abrasions). While maintaining anal hygiene is important, people tend to be too fastidious when it comes to cleaning up before anal intercourse.
Check out his expert advice on how to make anal sex more pleasurable: How To Prepare for Bottoming (Along With Some Common Mistakes) Joseph Terlizzi, a New York-based colon and rectal surgeon, for the lowdown on how gay and bi men can prepare, how to do the deed, and how to stay safe post-coital.
When it comes to having safe and pleasurable anal sex, it’s important to know all the facts. Everything you wanted to know about bottoming but were too afraid to ask.