The idea of anal play is exciting for many people, and with good reason. The anus and rectum are rich with nerve endings, making them sensitive areas. Men also have the added benefit of having the prostate gland, which responds pleasurably to stimulation.
If you find the idea of anal play erotic, but aren't ready or don't care to try anal intercourse, you can still enjoy this highly sexual form of play. Many people don't realize that anal intercourse is actually the least practiced form of anal play. Gentle stimulation with fingers, tongues and toys is far more common.

Before You Begin

Unlike the vagina, the anus doesn't produce any kind of natural lubricant, so make sure to use lots of lubricant for any kind of anal play. Anal lube is thicker and more emollient than regular lube, and some contain densensitizing agents, which make anal play a little easier for beginners and those who are extra sensitive.

Follow the Rule

Always remember the most important rule about any kind of anal play: only insert objects with a larger or flanged base so that toys don't become lost in your rectum or bowels. All those stories about people going to the emergency room to have things removed from their backsides are based in fact! Only use sex toys that were designed for anal play.

Keep it Clean

If you are worried about fecal matter, an enema or anal douche before and/or after anal sex will alleviate your concerns. Stay clean during anal play by using condoms when you insert anything. If you and your partner will engaging in oral-anal contact, keep a box of sex wipes on hand for quick cleanup just before the oral act.

Take it Slow

If you and your partner are new to anal play, it?s important that you start slow. The sensations of anal stimulation and penetration are very different from vaginal penetration and stimulation to the penis and clitoris, and can take some getting used to before yielding pleasure. As you and your partner progress with your anal adventures, make sure to communicate about what you like and what makes you uncomfortable.

Finger Play

Begin with soft touching. Fondle your partner's buttocks, gently spreading them to expose the anus. The lightest of touches can create intense pleasure when applied to the rim of the anus and the area around it. Many people enjoy having one or more fingers slowly inserted into their anus; be sure to use lube. In addition to gently moving your fingers back and forth inside the anus, try a twirling motion just below the rim of the anal sphincter.

Rimming

Analingus, or oral-anal contact, is known by a number of euphemisms, rimming probably the most common. Although rimming doesn't appeal to everyone, the sensation of having your lover's tongue lick and caress your anus is extremely pleasurable, very similar in sensation to cunnilingus and fellatio.
If you are rimming your partner for the first time, take it slow, as you would with any form of anal play. Stroke, fondle and kiss your partner's buttocks and thighs as you work your way to the anus. When your partner is in a state of high arousal, kiss the anus and run your tongue around the edge of it. Insert the tip of your tongue and wiggle it around, moving it in and out of the anus. Experiment to see what appeals most to you and your partner: kissing, licking and tonguing can produce different sensations.

Anal Sex Toys

A wide variety of anal toys means that there is probably an anal toy for everyone, no matter what your preferences. Why not try?

• Anal Beads: Similar to ben wa balls and vaginal play, anal beads are inserted one at a time into the rectum, and then slowly pulled out.



• Anal Bullets: Any kind of vibrator can be used for anal play. Vibration around and just inside the anus feels very erotic. However, never insert a bullet all the way inside the rectum, lest the cord break and the small object become lost inside you or your partner.



• Anal Plugs: Available in a wide range of colors, sizes and styles, anal plugs are similar to dildos, but have been designed with a flared base. Anal plugs create a sensation of fullness that many people find exciting.
  
• Anal Probes: Designed for thrusting, anal probes also work well as prostate stimulators. Probes look similar to dildos, except they usually have a long handle.


• Vibrating Plugs & Probes: Whether you enjoy fullness or thrusting (or both!), a vibrating anal plug or probe provides intense waves of sensation. Look for single or multi-speed vibrators in a variety of colors, sizes and shapes.

To keep bacteria from getting you sick or ruining your toys, always be sure to thoroughly clean anal toys after every use.

Health & Safety Concerns

Anal play is perfectly healthy and safe. However, the anus and rectum contain bacteria that are unhealthy for the vagina, so if you and your partner interchange toys between vaginal and anal use, always use a condom and change it before using the toy vaginally. Also use a condom if you and your partner share anal toys.