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One of the more challenging desires our clients want to share is their curiosity or interest in anal sex and anal play. In today's episode, Julie and Gina get real about the joys of anal pleasure.

This episode covers:

• How to get over the "ick factor."
• What if you tried it once and it didn't go well?
• What if one of you wants it and the other doesn't?
• What's the difference between anal play and anal sex?
• How to expand your definition of anal pleasure.

Memorable quote:

“Instead of severing ourselves from this whole region of the body that is right up next to other regions we usually like to focus on, think about ways to include it in order to relax together."

"When it comes to anal sex lube is essential.- I would say 'mandatory.'"

"If there's a surprise element it tells me that consent is not present."

"Everyone has a butt. So what's great about that is regardless of what body or identity your partner comes with, they might be into it. And whether you have a partner or not you might be into it."

"Try things on yourself before you try them on or with a partner."

"Different people experience different pleasure during anal play."

"Toys can be an additive to other sexual play and arousal. But Julie's safety tip is: if you're using a toy anally you want to be sure you either have a really good grasp on it or use something with a flared base."

"Not only inserting but removing too, move slowly."

"Don't yuck someone else's yum... The less judgment we have the better."

Resouces from the Podcast

Good Vibrations Guide to Anal Sex

Bend Over Boyfriend by Femme Fatale, edit: on the podcast, Gina says this video was put out by Tristan Taormino, when in fact it was made by Dr. Carol Queen and her partner Robert Morgan.

Babeland Anal Toys List

Action Steps

Listen to this podcast with the person you're having sex with and talk with them about anal play and pleasure. What are you curious about? What will help you feel safe to try? What will help you explore without judgment?

Your Swoon hosts

Gina Senarighi, MS, MA, CPC is a sexuality counselor and communication consultant specializing in healthy boundaries, passionate relationships, jealousy, and infidelity. She supports non-traditional couples all over the world as a retreat leader and certified relationship coach.
Connect with Gina

Julie Jeske, LPC is a sex and relationship counselor. She has a private practice where she helps clients increase intimacy, ignite passion and deepen their connection to themselves and others. Julie especially loves to help women discover who they are sexually. Through counseling, online classes, or in-person retreats; her clients learn how to talk about their sexual and relationship desires, and explore ways to make them a reality.
Connect with Julie

Jeff Guenther is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR.
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