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Anal sex 101: Your ultimate guide to having safe and pleasurable anal sex

While sex is a taboo in itself, anal sex is an even bigger taboo and people often shy away from talking about it. But knowing about safe practices can help you avoid any health risks.
health problems you should never ignore
Trying a new door? Keep these safety measures in mind. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Published by Shreya Gupta
Published On: 16 Jan 2021, 03:25 pm IST
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We might be in 2021, but anything about sex is still spoken about in hushed tones, and because of lack of knowledge, you might just end up having unsafe sex. Just like vaginal sex, anal sex too comes with its set of risks. If you have started exploring anal sex recently, then it’s important to know the risks, so that you can avoid them as much as possible. 

When it comes to anal sex, it doesn’t necessarily mean the penetration has to be with a penis, it can also be performed with fingers or sex toys. So, if you are here to know how to enjoy action safely, keep on reading!

1. It lacks lubrication

Unlike your vagina, the anus doesn’t lubricate itself, even when you are turned on. This can make the penetration painful, uncomfortable and cause bleeding in some cases. This means it is necessary to use a lubricant to provide comfort, so that the penetration isn’t painful and it doesn’t tear the delicate anus tissue.

2. The risk of STDs is higher

Just like vaginal sex, anal sex, too, can transmit STIs and STDs such as HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and herpes. In fact, according to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anal sex is the riskiest, when it comes to transmitting sexually transmitted diseases.

3. Anus has bacteria

While having anal sex, it’s not just STIs that cause concern, but if the bacteria living around the anus, gets contaminated either through condom or poor hygiene, it can lead to the spread of bacteria, such as hepatitis A and E. coli. This spread of bacteria can also lead to vaginal or urinary tract infections.

anal sex
Is anal intercourse worth the pain and risk? Image courtesy: Shutterstock
4. Take it slow

Unlike vaginal sex, you can never rush into anal sex. Relax and take it slow to reduce the risks of any tissue tear. Not only it will reduce the chances of any injury to your tissue, but it will also make the experience pleasurable.

Also, read: Is anal sex safe? Here are 8 things you need to know about anal intercourse

5. Practice hygiene

Maintaining proper hygiene while having anal sex is really important, and missing out on that can end you up with infections or irritation. So, pay attention to the hygiene, keep your hands clean, don’t use the same sex toys that you use for vaginal sex, and make sure to change the condom before and after having anal sex.

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About The Author
Shreya Gupta
Shreya Gupta

Finding nirvana in good food, Shreya also loves reading books and is a die-hard Potterhead. Confident and motivated she's fun to be with. Plus food. Always.

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