Many people shy away from the idea of anal sex. Maybe they think that only gay men enjoy anal sex and use anal sex toys. Maybe they've never considered the anus as an erotic area, or they feel it's somehow icky. Or maybe they just have no idea how to actually do it. Whatever the case, rest assured that anyone - that means whether they're straight, gay, men, women or couples - can enjoy anal sex. All you need is the desire to do it. In fact, anal sex can be a wonderful way to spice things up in the bedroom. In fact, those who practice this sex act will tell that you that it feels great ... at least once you get past your initial reservations. Why? This area of the body is rich with sensory nerve endings and pleasure points, which can lead to incredible orgasms.

Interested in testing out the back door? Here are some tips on toys that'll help you get started - and get the most out of your experience. 

Why Anal?

In a man, penetration stimulates the prostate, which can result in deeper, more intense and longer-lasting orgasms.

For women, some of the 8,000 or so sensory nerve endings found in the clitoris reach as far as the anus. In addition to the shared connection of sensory nerves, a thin membrane is all that separates the vaginal cavity from the rectal cavity. Therefore, some women find that touching the anal area or using an anal toy is highly erotic and leads to a more intense orgasm. 

The Rules of Anal Play

There are a few general rules about anal sex toys that you should always follow:

• Relax your body
• Go slow
• If using an anal toy with your partner, COMMUNICATE!
• Use (thicker) anal lubricant
• Listen to your body
• Listen to your partner
• Clean toys thoroughly with soap and water or a sex toy cleaner
• NEVER switch an anal toy from the anus to the vagina