Anal Oral Sex, Eating Ass?
Many people are curious about rimming but don’t quite know how to start. There’s a taboo around rimming, also called anilingus, while for many it can be a surprisingly intimate and pleasurable form of oral sex. Rimming should be fun for everyone involved and always happen with mutual consent. Still, some people feel embarrassed to talk about or try rimming. Unfortunately, there are also many misconceptions and incomplete information about this practice.
In this article, you’ll get an honest and practical guide: what exactly is rimming, how to prepare, what risks there are, how to do it well, and how to discuss it with your partner. Personal beliefs and religion can either reinforce or reduce the taboo around rimming, depending on the situation. With these tips, you can make rimming a safe, enjoyable, and connecting experience — whether you’re the one initiating or the one opening up the topic.
“For those who dare to explore, rimming opens the door to surprisingly intimate pleasure.”

What Exactly Is Rimming or Anilingus?
Rimming (in English: rimming or anilingus) is stimulating a partner’s anus with the mouth and tongue. Other forms of oral sex include cunnilingus, which stimulates the vulva, while rimming focuses on anal stimulation. It’s also referred to as “eating ass” or “licking ass” in more informal conversations about sexual acts. It can be part of foreplay or a source of pleasure on its own. Although still considered taboo in some cultures, it’s a cherished form of intimacy in many sexual relationships — regardless of orientation.
How Does It Feel for the Receiver?
This varies from person to person. The anus is rich in nerve endings and can therefore be very sensitive to touch. Some people find it intensely arousing, while others need to learn to relax first. It’s important to know that some may feel pain if the anus is stimulated too quickly or too intensely. Trust, comfort, and safety play a major role. During anal stimulation, the anus can stretch; always be careful and listen to your body. It’s always okay to say no if it doesn’t feel good.
Benefits of Rimming – Why Try It?
Rimming, also known as anal oral sex or “eating ass,” is an intimate act that can enrich your sex life in many ways. Many people discover that this form of oral sex is not only exciting but also creates a deeper connection with their partner. Trying something new together, whether giving or receiving, often builds a sense of trust and openness that can strengthen your relationship.
One of the biggest benefits is the unique stimulation of the anus. This area is packed with nerve endings, making touches with the tongue or mouth feel very intense. For some, this stimulation can even lead to orgasm or add another dimension of pleasure during sex. It can be a surprisingly delicious experience, especially if you’re open to new sensations and allow your body to relax.
Rimming can also help break the routine in your sex life. Whether you’ve been together for years or are just starting to explore what you enjoy, trying new things like rimming can bring fresh energy and more fun in bed. It doesn’t matter if you’re straight, gay, bi, or pan — anyone can enjoy this intimate act, as long as you both feel comfortable.
Good hygiene is, of course, important. Taking a shower and cleaning the area around the anus thoroughly helps you feel fresh and removes concerns about odour or taste. For extra reassurance, use a dental dam as a barrier. This way, you can relax and enjoy the moment without worrying about hygiene or risks.
Finally, rimming is all about communication and trust. Discuss with your partner what you want to try, what excites you, and where your boundaries are. By talking openly and discovering step by step, you can make rimming a positive, pleasurable experience that deepens your bond. In short: rimming can be a fun, intimate, and surprisingly tasty addition to your sex life. With attention to hygiene, open communication, and curiosity, you can explore what this special form of oral sex means for you.
Risks and Safety in Rimming
As with any form of oral sex, there are hygiene and STI risks — such as hepatitis A, herpes, gonorrhoea, or parasites like giardia. But with the right precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk. For reliable health information, visit the NHS page on Sex activities and risk, which covers safety aspects of oral–anal contact (rimming), including risks of bacterial, parasitic, and STI transmission.
How to Reduce Risks
- Use a dental dam or cut-open condom as a barrier.
- Make sure both you and your partner have been recently tested for STIs.
- Avoid rimming if there are cuts, haemorrhoids, or digestive issues.
- Rinse your mouth afterwards with water, and wait 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.

Hygiene and Preparation
Good preparation makes rimming not only safer but also more pleasant for both partners. It’s all about freshness, comfort, and trust.
Practical Hygiene Steps
- Go to the toilet beforehand and give your body time.
- Shower or use a wet washcloth to clean the anal area.
- Optionally, use unscented wet wipes.
- Change the bedding or use a towel for extra security.
An anal douche is optional, not mandatory. For most people, normal cleaning is enough.
Techniques for Anal Oral Sex
Just like with oral sex on other body parts, rimming is about attention, feeling, and variation.
Tongue Techniques
- Start gently: soft licking around the anus can already be arousing.
- Make circular movements or gentle flicks with your tongue.
- Vary speed and pressure, and listen to your partner’s reactions.
- Alternate breathing, kissing, and licking.
Positions and Comfort
- Partner on hands and knees, optionally with a cushion underneath.
- Lying on the back with legs up or to the side.
- Sitting on the partner’s face, with good communication.
- 69 position, if both partners want to give and receive.

Communication and Setting Boundaries
Consent and open communication are essential in rimming. Not everyone enjoys it, and that’s perfectly fine.
How to Bring It Up
- Bring it up outside the moment: “Have you ever thought about…”
- Explain why it turns you on or why you find it interesting.
- Ask what your partner would need to feel comfortable.
What If One of You Doesn’t Like It?
- Always respect a “no” without pressure.
- Look for alternatives you both enjoy.
- It might happen later, or maybe it’s not for you — both are fine.
Who Is Rimming For?
For anyone curious about new forms of pleasure and intimacy. Whether you’re straight, gay, bi, or pan: pleasure has no labels.
Couples Who Want to Try
- Start by expressing your curiosity.
- Take it step by step: touch first, then lick if it feels right.
- Build trust by responding positively and communicating well.

Conclusion
Rimming or anilingus can be an intense, playful, and sensual experience — but it requires preparation, communication, and trust. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or have done it before, take the time to discover what works for you. With clear boundaries, good hygiene, and mutual consent, rimming can be a beautiful addition to your sex life.
Be curious, be respectful, and enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is rimming safe?
Yes, if you take hygiene seriously and use protective measures like a dental dam. Always follow proper steps: clean thoroughly, use a barrier, and communicate with your partner for a safe experience.
2. Can I rim without a dental dam?
Yes, but it increases the risk of infection. Using a barrier is recommended.
3. Do I need to empty my bowels first?
Not necessarily. A normal toilet visit and shower are usually enough. Once you’re clean, you can relax and enjoy the moment.
4. Is it normal to get aroused by this?
Absolutely. Many people find anal oral sex intensely arousing and intimate.
5. Can rimming be part of foreplay?
Definitely. For many couples, it’s a playful way to build up to other forms of sex.
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