Does anal sex hurt? We answer all your anal FAQs

Got burning questions about anal that you’ve always been too afraid to ask? We’ve got you covered with answers to some of your most vexing questions.

What does anal sex feel like?

Got burning questions about anal that you’ve always been too afraid to ask? We’ve got you covered with answers to some of your most vexing questions.

Assuming you have lubed to the max, people often describe the sensation as ‘reverse pooping’ or feeling like they are going to poop. This can happen, although it’s rare and unlikely if you’re properly prepared. If it does, don’t worry! There’s no need to feel embarrassed if you and your partner are on the same page and trust each other.

Our number one tip if you’re curious about anal play is to explore and experiment by yourself first. Use your fingers or small toys to get comfortable with the sensation before you move on to bigger things. 

If you’ve put in a bit of practice, then you should have a pretty good idea of what it feels like before you move on to penetrative sex with a partner. However, a penis may be larger than what you’ve been used to.

Does anal sex hurt?

It shouldn’t hurt, although a little discomfort the first few times is not uncommon. 

The level of pain you might experience will all come down to preparation and communication between you and your partner. 

To avoid pain, ease into anal sex by trying anal masturbation first, warm up with lots of foreplay, use LOTS of lube, and take things slow. Keep up the communication with your partner so if anyone is feeling uncomfortable you can slow down or stop. And remember, this is supposed to be enjoyable, so if it’s not for you, then move on – there are plenty of other fun things you can do in the bedroom. 

Is anal sex safe?

Anal sex is considered to be one of the ‘riskier’ types of sex you can partake in. But anal sex is a perfectly healthy and safe activity, both in the short- and long-term. 

Because the anus is not self-lubricating, it does increase the chances of friction-related tears in and around the anus. These micro-tears can cause bacterial infections to occur because your stool will naturally contain bacteria.

To reduce your risk of a bacterial infection, you should use a water-based lube to help minimise any friction-related problems. And no, there’s no such thing as too much lube. You should also be aware that if you’re switching from anal sex to vaginal sex, you need to be changing condoms to greatly reduce the risk of getting a bacterial infection.

There are a few increased risks when having anal sex, but with good knowledge and preparation, they’re all very manageable.

Should you wear a condom for anal sex?

Similar to the reasons above, the skin has a higher chance of tearing during anal sex than during vaginal sex, so that does mean there is a bigger opportunity to spread STIs. 

The same as when you’re having vaginal sex, you need to be wearing a condom if you want to reduce your risk of transmitting and receiving different STIs.

Can you get pregnant from anal sex?

Well, technically speaking no, you can’t. Anal sex is a good way to avoid pregnancy, actually. But there are some unlikely scenarios from anal sex that could lead to a pregnancy. If semen from anal sex gets on or into the vagina, then technically there does become a chance of pregnancy, even though the actual chance of that occurring is very low.

Can you do anal to yourself?

Yep! Anal masturbation is a super-fun way to get off. The benefits of solo anal are lowered stress, better sleep, improved mood, and of course, pleasure! 

Similarly to anal sex, you want to be in the right mood and make sure you’re comfortable. Using lube, you can explore down there with your fingers by rubbing or penetrating. Toys are also a fun option for when you feel more comfortable with anal masturbation.But, just take your time – begin to explore what you like and what you don’t, and you’ll work it out in no time. You might even find your way to the elusive anal orgasm!

Can you eat before anal sex?

While many people will fast when planning for anal, we don’t recommend it. It’s not healthy, and you’ll want the energy when you’re going at it – trust us. 

If you’re concerned about a messy situation, try avoiding dairy, carbonated beverages or anything else that makes you gassy. Other foods to stay away from include coffee, spicy foods and fruit. 

Really, it all comes down to knowing your own gut, how it works, and what foods could cause a potential upset. It’s a much better idea to eat a healthy diet and go to the bathroom an hour before playtime (or douche) than to stop eating altogether.

Can anal stretch the anus?

A common concern for newbies is the thought that the anus is going to “stretch”. This won’t happen (even if you go really big!). 

The anus is a powerful sphincter, which means it can be comfortably “stretched” to accommodate toys and penises, but will shrink back down to its original size afterwards.

Want more anal info?

Read our ultimate guide to anal play, or check out other articles about anal sex:

• How to Achieve an Anal Orgasm
• Best Anal Sex Positions
• Anal Sex for Beginners
• How to Prepare for Anal
• Foreplay for Anal: A Guide
• The Best Way to Anal Train
• How to Use an Anal Douche in 10 Easy Steps
• Solo Anal: A Guide to Pleasuring Yourself Anally
• What’s the Best Lube for Anal?
• What to do after Anal Sex

Or, if you’re ready to explore playing with anal toys, check out our extensive range, including anal toys for couples, anal stimulators butt plugs, anal beads and more!