Anal sex is when one person places the erect penis, finger or object into the anus of another person to give and receive sexual pleasure. Many people enjoy anal stimulation. Some people, though, don�t like anal sex and that�s normal, too.

Unlike the vagina, the anus is a tighter opening that doesn�t have its own lubrication. The anus also has a very strong muscle that is designed to keep things out of the rectum. That�s why most people have to �prepare� the anus for intercourse by gently inserting a gloved and lubricated finger into the anus to train this muscle to relax.  It�s also a must to use lubrication on anything going into the anus to avoid tearing or irritating the lining of the anus.

When inserting something into the anus, go slowly and stop if there�s pain or resistance. It�s best if a person empties the bowels (goes to the bathroom) before anal intercourse and washes well before and after anal sex or oral anal contact. Bacteria in fecal matter can spread to other body areas if someone touches your anus and then other parts of your body. A lot of anal sex can cause the muscle in the anus to loosen so that it may have a harder time holding in feces.