Let’s start our Anal Adventure with anal anatomy.

Anal Anatomy

The anus is the opening that connects to the rectum, which connects to the colon.

There are 2 sphincter muscles: an external sphincter muscle and an internal sphincter muscle, which can feel like a muscular ring.

The exterior of the anal opening has millions of ultra-sensitive nerve endings that can provide pleasing sensations when stimulated.

It’s important to know—the rectum is NOT self-lubricating, which makes it imperative to use lubrication when enjoying anal sex. Anal sex, or anal intercourse, is usually the insertion of a penis, sex toy or finger into a person’s anus, or anus and rectum, for sexual pleasure.

A Brief History of Anal Sex

The practice of anal sex can be traced back to ancient Greece, although it’s believed to have been enjoyed for over 4,000 years.

By the Middle Ages, the practice of anal sex was considered taboo and condemned by many religions. And many of those old-fashioned beliefs still have an influence on society today.

But recent research has shown that anal play has been making a comeback!

Recent surveys indicate that 72% of surveyed Americans have received OR given anal sex and 26% have done both!

17% have tried pegging…53% have tried anal toys or fingers on themselves… and 49% have tried anal toys and fingers on someone else.

And, according to The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 94% of women who received anal sex reported having an orgasm.

Safe Practices

Once again, the rectum is not self-lubricating and that means anal lubrication is necessary to minimize friction and possible tears in order to avoid pain and infection.

The wall of the rectum can be tender – especially for those unaccustomed to anal play. So, moving at a slow, relaxed pace when enjoying anal sex is recommended.

ALL pleasure products used for anal penetration should have a flared, curved, or large base. This is because there is a lot of vacuum suction in the rectum and a flared base can prevent a sex toy from being sucked inside.

Tips for Anal Sex Beginners

1. Try a spooning position where the receiver backs up onto the penis or dildo. This position allows the large muscles in the area of the buttocks to be the most relaxed and allows the receiver to control the pace of insertion and thrusts.
2. As mentioned twice before because it’s THAT important, the rectum is not self-lubricating, so a good lubricant is always needed. Jelly or gel formulas typically last longer and provide extra “cushion”. Silicone lubricant is ultra-slick and needs to be reapplied less often than water-based formulas. And it’s good to remember that oil-based lubricants can cause latex condoms to break so this combination of products is not recommended.
3. And my third tip is foreplay, foreplay, foreplay! This can help to get a beginner comfortable with what anal stimulation and insertion feels like.
4. Communicating about what feels good - or what may not feel the best - is the key to a better anal experience for both partners.

Also, lubricant created specifically for anal play is something to consider. And flavored lubricants can add another element of fun for analingus or rimming.

Recommended Anal Lubes

Whatever lube you choose, reapply as often as you desire to keep anal play comfortable.

• Silicone lubricant is a good place to start. Check out Swiss Navy Premium Silicone Lubricant.
• Flavored lubricants are great if oral anal play is on your agenda. See Swiss Navy's delicious options here.
• Anal lube should always be considered. The active ingredient in Swiss Navy’s Premium Anal Lubricant is clove oil.

Clove oil has traditionally been used for a variety of purposes, including:

• as an antimicrobial, to help kill bacteria, which is important since medical research has found this particularly helpful for those who participate in anal sex.
• as a pain reliever for conditions such as muscle pain.

Clove oil is also a great natural remedy for moisturizing dry skin.

Within Swiss Navy’s Premium Anal Lubricant formula, clove oil contains the active ingredient eugenol, which is a natural anesthetic to help numb and reduce pain. It’s these thoughtful ingredient additions that make the Swiss Navy brand stand out among other personal lubricants.

Healthy Anal Sex is something to Celebrate!

Remember that as long as you know your anal anatomy, how to keep anal play safe, and what lubricants are right for you… there is no reason why you shouldn’t be celebrating well into the future!

Swiss Navy is Always Here to Help

Ready to explore superpower potions? Visit The Secret Benefits of Arousal Potions.

To let lube inspire your next date night, visit Lube: Your Date Night Inspiration.

For more information on how warming and cooling lubricants can provide extra sensations, visit 3 Ways to Enjoy your Hot Summer Nights.

Please remember to check back often as new blogs are posted with lots of helpful information and wellness tips addressing your own intimate concerns.