Are There Really Any Benefits of Anal Sex?

Curious about anal play but feeling a little hesitant? It’s totally understandable! We’re often taught to think of the backdoor as, well, just that — an exit, not an entrance. Add in some outdated myths about discomfort and mess, and it’s easy to feel a bit intimidated. But here’s the thing: anal pleasure is something many women enjoy and find incredibly fulfilling. It’s about exploring new sensations, expanding your sexual horizons, and deepening intimacy with your partner (or yourself!).

With the right approach, communication, and a whole lot of lube, anal play can be a safe, pleasurable, and even mind-blowing experience. Still suspicious? Here are eight benefits of anal sex that might make you want to give it a try. 

Heightened Sensitivity, Heightened Pleasure

The anal area is replete with pleasure-producing sensory receptors that you may be neglecting. 

“There’s a high concentration of nerve endings there which can cause intense sensations and, in some women, orgasms,” Sexual Alpha’s Aliyah Moore, PhD, tells FemmeFunn. 

Therefore, indulging in a little anal play can tap into sensations you may not have even known your body is capable of, whether you tackle this through rimming, penetration, or a toy that’s built for the butt. 

“It’s important to keep in mind that these benefits are highly personalized, and not every woman will experience them in the same manner,” Moore points out. So don’t be disappointed if your first attempt at anal isn’t unforgettably great. Great things can take time.

A Path to Self-Love & Sexual Confidence

Sometimes, exploring activities that may have previously felt daunting or taboo can level up your confidence. When it comes to anal sex, you may also discover an avenue to fall in love with a part of your body that isn’t normally considered, well, loveable. 

“For many women, choosing to engage in anal sex can be a way of reclaiming their sexual autonomy and challenging societal taboos,” says SQL’s Isabel Mioch, who has spent the past five years as a Sexuality Coach. “This sense of empowerment can have positive psychological effects, enhancing confidence and self-esteem.”

Vulnerability, Trust, and a Hotter Connection

Anal sex isn’t just about physical pleasure; it’s a shared experience that requires deep trust and communication. This vulnerability can lead to a profound sense of connection and emotional closeness.

“Engaging in anal sex requires a high level of surrender, trust, and communication between partners,” Mioch tells FemmeFunn. “When approached with mutual respect and understanding, it can even deepen the love for or the feeling of closeness with the other person.” 

Many women actually claim that anal is more intimate for them than vaginal sex, creating a special layer of emotional thrill.

An Expanded Sexual Playbook

Adding variety to sexual experiences can reignite passion, especially if you’ve been with your partner for the long haul. By incorporating anal play into your intimate experiences, you get the opportunity to investigate your sexual relationship on another wavelength, perhaps even digging into new power dynamics between you and a play partner. 

“For some women, being in a submissive role during anal sex can lead to a heightened sense of trust and surrender, which can be deeply intimate and pleasurable,” Mioch suggests. “Conversely, taking a more dominant role can be empowering and affirming for women.”

Why not try both?

“This exploration can help couples better understand and communicate their desires, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling sexual relationship,” says Mioch.

Mind-Body Connection

You might be surprised to learn how many women find anal to be a deeply relaxing and fulfilling experience.

“Relaxation is essential during anal sex, as any tension can lead to discomfort. It’s key for the recipient to consciously focus on relaxing her body, particularly the pelvic floor muscles, and ease into the experience,” Mioch explains. 

Because stress relief is such a core tenet of anal pleasure, it makes sense that many women prioritize relaxation throughout and come away feeling at ease. You may even want to try achieving orgasm before diving in through the backdoor to further increase those sensations of calm.

“Being in a vulnerable position like this can evoke a range of emotions to the surface,” Mioch says. “Letting go of everything that causes stress, distraction or anxiety requires a calm state of mind, which makes the experience even more powerful and fosters a deeper mind-body connection.”

Self-Discovery and Sensual Awakening

As aforementioned, your anal area is an erogenous pleasure center that plenty of women never know. If you’re curious about physical discovery or seeking to get to know your body in new ways, anal play can heighten awareness of your own senses.

“By fostering the mind-body connection, it can heighten the state of arousal,” Mioch explains. “The slower, more deliberate pace of anal penetration can lead to an increased focus on subtle sensations, making the experience more intense and pleasurable.”

Anal play can be incredibly pleasurable, and exploring on your own allows you to discover what feels best for you. Plus, it’s a great way to build confidence and communicate your desires with a partner later on.

If you want to try things solo first, find a comfortable and private space where you feel safe and relaxed. Then, reach for a beginner-friendly anal toy (we love the Pyra vibrating butt plug for this) or a small dildo with a flared base. Remember, lube is your best friend here! Take things slow, listen to your body, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different sensations and pressures.

An Exciting Break in Routine

Your sexual relationship can reach volcanic heights once you’re ready to try anal.

“The novelty of anal sex may heighten arousal and anticipation, making sexual encounters more thrilling,” says Moore. “It also provides an opportunity for partners to communicate openly about their desires and fantasies, leading to more fulfillment and adventure.”

There’s no time like the present to break out of your routine and seek out different forms of pleasure, especially if it contributes to a more dynamic and satisfying sex life.

Squirting Orgasms

Did you know that women can squirt during anal sex? According to Mioch, this happens due to indirect stimulation of the G-spot or other sensitive areas through the vaginal wall. 

“When combined with other forms of stimulation, like clitoral or vaginal play, this can be incredibly pleasurable and even lead to squirting orgasms,” she explains. For those who enjoy squirting, anal might become your new favorite pastime.

The Bottom Line

The benefits of anal sex prove that this hot and spicy act goes way beyond penetration. It’s about opening yourself up to new experiences and deepening your connection with a partner. From enhancing your sense of adventure to discovering unexpected sensations, going in with a relaxed and open mindset could transform your intimacy in tantalizing new ways. So, if you’ve ever wondered: “Is anal good?” — take a cue from our experts, give it a try, and find out.