Caution: To minimize the risks of contracting STDs, use a condom in all sexual situations.

Anal sex is still considered taboo in many societies. It is usually labeled a gay practice, and is widely associated with sexually transmitted diseases. However, anal eroticism is probably the oldest manifestation of human sexuality and a very misunderstood sexual practice.
Statistics
For example, in ancient Peruvian cultures, at least half of all married couples indulged in anal intercourse in their lovemaking experiences. In addition, a more recent survey of 5000 married couples in rural Brazil found that in 40% of households, anal sex is regularly included in the lovemaking experience.

Furthermore, in Rio de Janeiro, the figure is even higher at around 50%. These figures are high mostly because the couples want to avoid pregnancy, contact with menstrual blood, and rupturing the hymen before marriage. But there is surely more to anal sex than issues of contraception and chastity. Today, with modern and efficient contraceptive tools and early sexual experiences, anal sex is practiced for pleasure. In North America, Redbook Magazine surveyed 100,000 married women on their anal sex practices. Here is what the survey said:

- 43% of married women have tried anal intercourse.
- Of these, 40% found it somewhat or very enjoyable.
- 49% didn't like it.
- And 10% had no particular feelings one-way or the other (no pun intended).
Things To Consider
So anal sex isn't a rare practice amongst North American couples; it is something many men and women have tried.

There are a few things to consider before engaging in anal sex with your partner. Both partners have to consent to the experience; it must be done in a smooth and delicate manner; and proper protection is required.
Consenting
In general, men are willing to try intercourse from behind (in her behind, relax), but they will usually have to talk their girlfriends into it because the thought of it may initially seem repulsive to her; not to mention painful.
Techniques
So how do you do it? It is recommended to build up to anal sex by trying anal stimulation prior to full penetration. For most people, the anal area is an important erogenous zone, as it is believed that stimulation of that area can be very pleasurable. However, the rectum is also very delicate and must be approached with care.

The easiest way to stimulate the anus is by rubbing your partner there during intercourse or whilst performing oral sex. Slowly massage the area with your cleansed and nail-trimmed fingers and see how your partner reacts. If she seems comfortable with the idea, then explore a little further (and deeper).Lubricate
Before experimenting, make sure your fingers are well lubricated (use ample saliva or special lubricants.) Little by little, slowly slide your whole finger in. Make sure you do not force it, and read her body language to ensure that she is comfortable every step of the way.

Once these preliminary steps have been followed and both partners are ready for anal sex, heavily lubricate your penis and insert it slowly. Remember that the first times might be difficult and that you might only be able to penetrate partially. However, once both partners become comfortable and relaxed, penetration will become both easier and deeper. Please note that at no time should the movement be forced because it can lead to serious injuries.
Relaxed
Insert the head of your penis, and slowly and rhythmically slide it in and out. While she's relaxed, you can begin to thrust a little deeper with the same slow and gentle rhythm, as your partner's comfort level rises. When finishing up, do not withdraw quickly because it can result in pain.
HIV & STDs
Protecting yourself during anal sex is very important. There are big misconceptions that anal sex causes AIDS and other STDs. As a matter of fact, if neither partner is infected with any infection or disease, there is no risk of getting infected. However, if one of the partners is infected with some sexually transmitted ailment, the likelihood of contracting it increases much more via anal sex. That's because rectal tissues are more easily torn and viruses penetrate faster than from vaginal tissues.
Hygiene
It is also not hygienic for a penis or a finger to enter the vagina after withdrawal from the rectum. Therefore, it is recommended to wash both your hands and genitals before entering the vagina. Finally, if you are not completely sure about your partner's sexual history, or even if you are, condoms are compulsory in every sexual situation.