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C-Spot: C-Spot is an erotic review written and produced by Columbia University students.

It is a platform for students to apply the intellectual, academic, and creative to the erotic.

It was founded on the grounds that the student community needs a space for uncensored and unrestricted sexual expression.

Thus C-Spot is not a sponsored Columbia student group, rather it functions as an independent entity that exercises the greatest possible freedom in its operations.

We want to begin throwing C-Spot events such as burlesque and drag shows, lingerie parties, and speed dating, thus we are looking for students interested in organizing or helping out in any way.

Some might say Ivy League students are generally “uptight” or that we “have sticks up our asses.” To that I say: there are much better things we can insert than sticks…

Anal sex is certainly a taboo. We are socially conditioned to consider the “back door” as a place for exit, not entry, so to speak.

I decided to consult a couple on campus about utilizing this alternative space, and find out how others can ease themselves into it, in a way that makes it fun for everyone!

The two would like to be called Anthony and Tamar. Anthony is the stereotypical guy who would love to access his girlfriend’s back door. His major obstacle however, is making his girlfriend, Tamar, comfortable enough to let him.

Since the most obvious obstacle derives out of fear of the unfamiliar, I figured anal masturbation would be the best first step to trying anal sex. For those of you who agree, ditch my article and instead start reading Babeland’s online exposé “How to Have Butt Sex: A Beginner’s Guide.”

If that suggestion doesn’t jive with you, then you’re not alone. Tamar admits that she once “stuck [her] finger up there. But it felt like nothing.”

She however gave a very insightful response as to why she thinks her solo trial failed:

“Most women don’t explore that part of their bodies alone. So they’re going to need a bit of coaxing. I’m not sure what I would need.”

In light of Tamar’s words of wisdom, I decided to direct my discussion towards those women who need the support of a partner in order to explore their kinkier side.

Neither Tamar nor Anthony thinks anal sex is immoral. Tamar’s biggest concern is that Anthony will find some unpleasant surprises once he’s inside. So how does the receiver quell any fears about involuntary farts or pooh during anal sex?

The most obvious solution would be to use an enema (an injection of fluid into the anus). Tamar however, objects to using one, “I hear those hurt a lot and I don’t want any water up my ass!”

I also considered that frequent enemas must be unhealthy. Once faced with this conundrum, I did what any Columbia student would do–I did some homework.

A great source, recommended by Babeland and Ask Alice, is Tristan Taormino’s The Ultimate Guide to Anal Sex for Women.

I accessed this book at the New York Public Library (after filling out a series of forms, applying for a research card, being instructed to read it under “supervision” in a designated room, and hopefully not ending up on some sort of FBI watch list).

Taormino explains that feces are actually stored in the colon; only trace amounts of feces remain in the rectum after you defecate. So the great news is that you don’t need an enema!

The solution to clearing the rectum is to have a bowel movement beforehand, and then following it up with a warm shower.

Most importantly, Taormino cautions that you should make sure your anus is feeling healthy enough for visitors.

If you’re experiencing diarrhea, constipation, or any other discomfort, then it’s not the right time to try anal anything.

So once you make potty, a natural transition can be some partner play in the shower. Taormino advises that “shaving your partner's anal area can be very erotic” and to go about it slowly, using a gentle shaving cream with a disposable razor.

But, save any further anal play for another day! Unperceivable scratches and nicks will increase the risk of transmitting infection during anal sex. Also, use a mild lotion to stop the itch once the hairs start to grow back.

Another strategy for developing comfort and trust is to finger your partner in the shower. You two can overcome your fears about unwanted secretions because it all comes out in the wash!

So next time you have an eco-friendly shower, try inserting a finger, then two, just inside of your partner’s anus.

If your fingers meet resistance, Babeland’s online article “Getting Started with Anal Sex!” suggests that you insert a finger while your partner pushes out as if she/he has to go to the bathroom.

However, you may be like Tamar and not like having sex in the shower because it’s uncomfortable having to stand.

I also considered that the close-quarters of the grimy showers on campus aren’t exactly sexy. So the next hurdle for Tamar and Anthony is making the bedroom a comfortable place for a potentially messy play date.

Tamar agreed that she would let Anthony insert a finger or two if they were covered with a latex glove and lubricant. Using a condom, even for fingering, can ease your partner’s fears about getting crud on you.

If you decide to try this, Taormino says to make sure everyone’s nails are short & filed smooth, even if you plan on wearing latex gloves. Also note that choosing the right lubricant is crucial.

All of my sources stress this fact because the anus in NOT self-lubricating. Ask Alice prescribes against using oil-based lubricant for any sexual activity.

“The oil can leave a coating on the rectum or vagina that can lead to bacterial or other infections.” So water-based lubes are pricier but more effective; Anthony and Tamar swear by JO H2O anal lubricant.

Other great intermediate steps:

Rimming (a.k.a. ass to mouth). You two can gradually let your tongues drift south as you go down on each other.

Missionary positions. Unlike doggy style, facing your partner can increase comfort and trust.

Concurrent clitoral stimulation. It’s familiar and guaranteed pleasure for her while he’s navigating the backwaters.

Using toys. Dildos can help get her ass accustomed to penetration.

Leading by example. Anthony confidently discloses that he enjoys “French tickling” around his anus during blowjobs.

Men: if you’re even more of a man than Anthony, you can volunteer to receive full-on anal action on the condition that you both take turns.

tags: anal sex  anal  taboo  frisson  

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