Analingus: The Curious Lovers’ Guide to Oral-Anal Contact

Not everyone instantly warms up to the idea of licking or kissing a lover’s anus, or having theirs explored. Some people feel shy about it, some feel turned off, and a whole lot of people feel quietly curious.

The truth is, many lovers wonder about oral-anal play, also known as analingus and casually called rimming. Plenty are surprised by how intrigued they feel, and many who decide to try it end up enjoying it a lot more than they expected.

Some couples stumble into analingus by accident. During cunnilingus, the anus is close enough that a tongue can wander a little lower than planned. One unexpected lick, one unexpected jolt of pleasure, and suddenly the idea of rimming does not seem so strange.

Others arrive there through anal play. Sphincter massage, fingering, anal plugs, and penetration can all open the door to curiosity about using the mouth and tongue. When someone begins to enjoy the sensations of anal stimulation in general, adding lips and tongue can feel like a natural next step.

Another Way To Play

There is nothing abnormal about rimming. It is simply one more sensual option, like oral sex or manual play. Not that long ago, oral sex itself was labeled “perverted” and illegal in many places. Now it is one of the most common and beloved forms of sexual activity.

Rimming may never be as mainstream as oral sex, but as people grow more comfortable with sexual exploration, especially anal play, it is no surprise that more heterosexual and queer couples are adding analingus to their erotic menu.

Why Analingus Can Feel So Erotic

The anus and the skin around it are packed with nerve endings that respond intensely to gentle, loving touch. The lips and tongue are also extremely sensitive. Put those two areas together and you get an unusual combination of warmth, softness, pressure, and wetness that can be powerfully erotic.

The pelvic floor muscles add another layer. These internal muscles contract during orgasm and play a big role in arousal. When a finger, toy, or tongue stimulates the anus, it can indirectly engage these muscles, heightening overall sensation.

There is also an emotional piece. Many people feel self-conscious about their anus. When a partner not only accepts that part of them but actively desires it, that can feel incredibly intimate and validating. For some couples, rimming becomes a way of saying:

“I love all of you. Nothing about your body turns me off.”
“I trust you completely. You can explore every part of me.”

That kind of mutual acceptance can be a very hot turn-on all by itself.

How To Bring It Up

If you are curious about rimming, talk about it before you dive in. Some couples like to discuss new ideas outside the bedroom. Others feel more comfortable bringing it up during foreplay.

You might say directly that you are interested in trying analingus. Or you might take a softer approach, such as mentioning an article you read on MyPleasure and asking what your partner thinks.

If your partner grimaces or gives a hard “no,” respect that. Never pressure someone into a type of play they do not want.

If they respond with curiosity, even if it comes with concerns about hygiene or safety, that is a good opening to talk more, share information, and decide together what feels comfortable.

Also clarify roles. Some people are only interested in giving. Some only in receiving. Some are open to both. Talking that through beforehand avoids awkward surprises later.

The Big Fear: Fecal Contact

Because the anus is involved in bowel movements, it is natural to worry about feces. Even after careful wiping, small traces can remain on the skin.

The good news is that proper hygiene makes a big difference. Most of the time, when you do not feel the urge to go, only tiny amounts of stool remain in the anal canal and around the opening. Gentle washing with warm water and mild soap removes most of it.

Some people feel more confident using a small enema beforehand to rinse the rectum. Over-the-counter disposable enemas are easy to use and can be followed by a shower together, which doubles as sensual foreplay and a chance to make sure everything feels fresh.

The Infection Connection

The digestive tract naturally contains bacteria and other organisms that help with digestion. Those same organisms can sometimes cause infections if they travel where they do not belong.

Examples include:

digestive bacteria that can lead to urinary tract infections or vaginal infections if they reach the urethra or vulva
intestinal bacteria that can cause food-poisoning-type illness
parasites and some viruses that can spread through contact with contaminated stool

Rimming can also be a potential route of transmission for certain infections, including some sexually transmitted infections. The risk can be higher if there are open sores, bleeding gums, hemorrhoids, or other sources of blood.

Because of this, many sexual health educators recommend:

avoiding oral-anal contact if either partner has active GI illness, sores, or bleeding
not moving directly from anal play to vaginal or urethral contact without washing and changing gloves or condoms
considering barrier protection such as a dental dam or a cut-open condom placed over the area for added safety

For monogamous couples who know each other’s health status, practice careful anal hygiene, and are not dealing with active infections, the risk of serious illness from analingus is usually low, but not zero. Each couple should weigh their comfort level, talk honestly, and choose the precautions that feel right for them.

Nothing here replaces medical advice, so if you have questions about your specific situation, it is always wise to talk with a health professional.

Fun With Less Fear: Hygiene Tips

If you decide to play, here are some common sense steps that help many people feel more relaxed:

Wash thoroughly around the anus with warm water and mild soap before play
Consider showering together and working the area into your sexy “prep” routine
If you want extra reassurance, use a small enema before showering
After oral-anal contact without a barrier, rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash

These habits help reduce exposure to bacteria and can make both partners feel much more at ease.

Positions For Analingus

Certain positions make rimming easier and more comfortable.

Knees and elbows
The receiver is on hands and knees or elbows and knees, while the giver kneels or sits behind and gently spreads the cheeks.
Standing bent over
The receiver stands and bends forward at the waist, while the giver kneels, sits, or squats behind.
Lying on the back
The receiver lies on their back with knees bent and drawn up or apart. A pillow under the hips lifts the pelvis and gives the giver better access.
Sixty nine
Mutual analingus requires more flexibility and body awareness, but some couples enjoy it as part of a longer session of oral play.

As always, comfort, clear communication, and the ability to adjust matter more than any specific position.

Technique Tips

Once you are both ready and in position, slow and attentive usually wins.

Try:

starting with kisses, strokes, and gentle massage on the lower back, hips, and thighs
kissing the cheeks, then the area around the anus
using the flat of your tongue for broad, warm strokes
using the tip of your tongue for light pressure or shallow penetration
experimenting with circles, up-and-down motions, and teasing rhythms

Check in often. Some people like very light touch. Some like more focused pressure. Let your partner’s sounds and body language guide you.

From Rimming To Other Forms Of Anal Play

For some couples, analingus is a playful addition to an already varied sex life. For others, it becomes a doorway into a broader world of anal pleasure, such as fingers, plugs, or penetration.

Whatever you choose, the real gift is the conversation you have along the way. Talking about fantasies, curiosities, limits, and fears helps couples understand one another more deeply. That level of honesty builds trust, and trust is one of the sexiest things in the world.

Whether analingus becomes a regular part of your lovemaking, an occasional treat, or something you simply decide is not for you, exploring it thoughtfully can still bring you closer.

With Pleasure,
MyPleasure