Also known as rimming, a rim-job and tossing the salad, anilingus is the act of using the mouth to stimulate the anus (no, not your own – not unless you’re a contortionist, anyway).
Although anilingus is one of those subjects that rarely spoken about, from speaking to friends and listening to other swingers, it seems that it’s far more popular than most of us would imagine. I don’t mean EVERYBODY’S at it, but probably more people enjoy rimming than we’re given to believe. It certainly appears to be far more popular than full penetrative anal sex.
Unfortunately, because of the bacteria, viruses and parasites present in and around the anus, there are some health risks involved in anilingus and it isn’t unusual for both sexes to pick up a urinary tract infection when the mouth is applied to the genitals immediately after being used in the anal area. Obviously, any kind of unprotected oral sex also carries the risk of STDs, especially genital herpes.
So what can be done to minimise the risk? After all, if you enjoy something, you don’t want to give it up, do you?
Giving the area a thorough wash can reduce the risk of transmitting diseases but by far the best solution is to place a sheet of plastic wrap over the anus before using the mouth to stimulate it. Admittedly, some of the sensation is removed but it does protect from bacterial infection and I know what I’d prefer!
Sadie xx
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