Does Anal Sex Have Any Benefits?

Anal sex can produce more powerful orgasms for some people and removes the possibility of pregnancy. Trying it can introduce variety into your sex life and deepen intimacy. That said, it’s not for everyone, and nobody should feel coerced into participating.

If you’ve been curious about anal sex but haven’t committed yet, here are some reasons to consider giving it a try—bum first.

You might be more likely to reach orgasm

A 2010 paper in the Journal of Sexual Medicine reported that of the 31 percent of women who’d had anal sex during their most recent sexual encounter, 94 percent experienced an orgasm.

Those are some notably encouraging statistics!

And anal orgasms can be extremely powerful

Indeed—anal orgasms can be intense because the anus contains many sensitive nerve endings, some linked to the genital area. There’s more to it than that.

For cis men and people assigned male at birth, anal stimulation can reach the prostate and trigger orgasmic responses. Prostate-driven orgasms can send intense waves of pleasure through the entire body.

For cis women and people assigned female at birth, anal penetration can indirectly stimulate two erogenous zones: the G-spot and the A-spot, both along the vaginal wall.

Like prostate stimulation, activating these areas may produce whole-body orgasms. With the right stimulation, some people may even experience squirting or what’s commonly called “female ejaculation.” Yes, please!

Some still view it as taboo, which can heighten excitement

Although anal sex is more common than in the past, it retains just enough taboo to add a sense of naughtiness that can boost arousal.

Forbidden or off-limits sexual fantasies are common. The idea of doing something seen as “unusual” or “forbidden” can be intensely arousing.

Of course, anal sex isn’t inherently wrong, but if it’s not part of your usual routine or if you grew up with certain attitudes about it, it can feel thrilling.

Plus, it lets you explore a new part of your body

You may not realize how pleasurable a body part can be until you explore it. Anal sex offers sensations different from other forms of sex.

Branching out from habitual sexual patterns is a great way to keep things fresh in the bedroom, whether you’re with a partner or alone.

It can help you explore your sexual desires

Curious about kinkier interests? Opening yourself up to new experiences can make you more sexually adventurous.

There’s a freeing feeling in taking control of your own pleasure.

Exploring the back roads could spark a wanderlust for pleasure that leads to new, exciting sexual pathways.

And it can introduce new sex toys into your play

Speaking of new pleasure paths—sex toys let anyone be the giver or receiver of behind-the-scenes pleasure.

Anal-specific toys are a gentle way to start and are often recommended before diving into full-on penetration.

You might try a small butt plug to get a sense of it, or use an anal training set to gradually work up to a penis, full-sized dildo, or strap-on.

If both partners want penetration, you can share toys—provided you use separate toys or thoroughly sanitize them between uses.

All of which can increase intimacy with a partner

It’s hard to get closer than sharing such snug space with someone you care about.

Anal sex takes clear communication and time trying different angles and positions to discover what’s enjoyable for both people.

That conversation and experimentation can significantly deepen closeness between partners.

There are some health perks, too

Yes—sexual activity of any kind has health benefits, including:

• penetrative sex
• oral sex
• masturbation

Sex has been associated with:

• reduced risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke
• improved sleep, with its own set of benefits
• a stronger immune response
• headache relief
• heightened libido
• eased menstrual cramps
• better mood

Butt play has additional potential benefits.

For example, prostate stimulation may help prevent or treat erectile dysfunction (ED), prostatitis, and painful ejaculation.

If you orgasm during anal sex—or any orgasm—you can also gain benefits such as:

• stress reduction
• decreased inflammation
• pain relief
• improved circulation
• healthier skin

And if you usually have penis-in-vagina sex, anal removes pregnancy risk

It’s nice to enjoy pleasurable penetration without the concern of pregnancy. That said, don’t ditch barrier methods entirely.

STIs remain a risk, so discuss safer sex with your partner

Penis-in-anus sex carries a higher STI risk, particularly for the receptive partner, because the rectal lining is thin and prone to tears.

Anal intercourse is considered the highest-risk sexual activity for HIV transmission.

You can also contract other STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes. There’s also the possibility of infections transmitted through contact with fecal matter.

Don’t cringe—poop happens. Some contact is likely whether you can see it or not.

Practicing safer anal sex is the best protection against HIV, STIs, and other infections.

For safer anal play, use condoms or other barriers and plenty of lubricant. Seriously—use ample lube. Not enough increases the chance of painful skin tears and infection.

Never go from penis or toy in the anus to the vagina without cleaning up and changing condoms first.

You don’t want fecal bacteria entering the urethra and causing urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Same warning applies to oral sex after anal—doing so can introduce bacteria and parasites into the mouth.

Ultimately, the greatest benefit is being able to express your preferences

Variety is the spice of life, and the more options you have for sexual pleasure, the better. Anal sex adds another form of enjoyment to choose from, if and when you want it.

Mix in toys and alternate roles—whatever satisfies your bottom.

The choice is yours alone

Your body, your choice. Decide what you consent to and with whom. Don’t let anyone pressure you into anal sex—or any sexual activity—if you’re not fully comfortable.

As wonderful as anal pleasure can be, it’s not essential for a fulfilling sex life, partnered or solo. Plenty of other ways exist to experience pleasure if you prefer to keep your backdoor closed.