Anal sex or anal intercourse is generally the insertion and thrusting of the erect penis into a person's anus , or anus and rectum , for sexual pleasure. Although anal sex most commonly means penileβanal penetration, [ 3 ] [ 4 ] [ 6 ] sources sometimes use anal intercourse to exclusively denote penileβanal penetration, and anal sex to denote any form of anal sexual activity , especially between pairings as opposed to anal masturbation. Most homosexual men report engaging in anal sex, [ 8 ] though other types of sexual behaviour are more frequently practised in this group.
As with most forms of sexual activity, anal sex participants risk contracting sexually transmitted infections STIs. Anal sex is considered a high-risk sexual practice because of the vulnerability of the anus and rectum.
The anal and rectal tissue are delicate and do not, unlike the vagina, provide lubrication. They can easily tear and permit disease transmission, especially if a personal lubricant is not used. Strong views are often expressed about anal sex. It is controversial in various cultures, often because of religious prohibitions against anal sex among males or teachings about the procreative purpose of sexual activity. The abundance of nerve endings in the anal region and rectum can make anal sex pleasurable for men and women.
Research indicates that anal sex occurs significantly less frequently than other sexual behaviors, [ 1 ] but its association with dominance and submission , as well as taboo , makes it an appealing stimulus to people of all sexual orientations. In a male receptive partner , being anally penetrated can produce a pleasurable sensation due to the object of insertion rubbing or brushing against the prostate through the anal wall.
In pornography, anal sex is commonly portrayed as a desirable, painless routine that does not require personal lubricant ; this can result in couples performing anal sex without care, and men and women believing that it is unusual for women, as receptive partners, to find discomfort or pain instead of pleasure from the activity. Researchers say adequate application of a personal lubricant, relaxation, and communication between sexual partners are crucial to avoid pain or damage to the anus or rectum.
