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. While anal sex is commonly associated with male homosexuality , research shows that not all gay males engage in anal sex and that it is not uncommon in heterosexual relationships. 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 tissues are delicate and do not provide lubrication like the vagina does , so 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, especially with regard to religious prohibitions. This is commonly due to 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 or 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 inserted penis rubbing or brushing against the prostate through the anal wall. Stimulation from anal sex can additionally be affected by popular perception or portrayals of the activity, such as erotica or pornography. 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. The anal sphincters are usually tighter than the pelvic muscles of the vagina, which can enhance the sexual pleasure for the inserting male during male-to-female anal intercourse because of the pressure applied to the penis.
