What is Anal August?
(Dear reader, isn’t this an interesting question!)
There is Masturbation Month, Orgasm Day, and No-Nut November - and now also Anal August, a month-long encouragement for deeper exploration of this pleasure zone.
During Anal August, we squirt lube onto fingers (short nails, babe!), try douching, and we might even dip a vibrating butt plug into our peach... Grab a cuppa and join us for a journey into butt-stuff!
Anal August is About Education
Anal play is a topic we regularly get questions about. Most are worried about the potential for pain and mess, and visibly shudder at the thought of having their tush played with. And the reality is that yes, anal play can be messy and painful - if it’s not done right.
But if you know how to prepare and play safely, anal play can offer immense pleasure, and this is what Anal August is all about. The main aim of Anal August isn’t necessarily to have anal sex, but to encourage curiosity and foster pleasure-positive conversations between lovers or good friends (best not start any convos at work, coz - you know - HR).
Before anything anal-related happens, it’s essential to educate yourself on anatomy and safe practices. Read our anal play articles, invest in a how-to book or two, and avoid “learning” from hardcore players on Pornhub.
Anal Atomony
The anus is more than just an exit - it’s a sensitive and complex part of the body designed with layers of muscle and a rich network of nerve endings. Two rings of muscle, called the internal and external sphincters, help control the opening and closing. With relaxation, these sphincters can also allow for pleasurable penetration.
Beyond the anus lies the rectum, which is actually S-shaped rather than a straight line, so toys and penetration should follow the body’s natural curve. Because the area is packed with nerve endings, gentle touch, pressure, or vibration can feel intensely stimulating. Understanding anatomy helps explain why warm-up, patience, and plenty of lube are essential for comfort and pleasure during anal play.
Experimenting with various positions can enhance your anal adventures. Just like with other kinds of play, anal can feel more or less pleasurable in certain positions. This varies from person to person, so try out some variations that appeal to you. Try pulling your knees up, crossing your legs, or bending over a supporting surface - you’ll see how your position alters sensations. The most important thing to remember is: if it hurts, it ain’t right.
Optional Prep: Douching for Peace of Mind
Douching isn’t a requirement for anal play, but some people like to do it because it helps them feel cleaner and more at ease. A simple rinse with warm water (no harsh soaps or chemicals) is usually enough. It won’t change how your body naturally works, but if it helps you relax and focus on pleasure, it can be a helpful part of your preparation ritual.
If you want tips on how to douch safely and comfortably, we have a blog post right here.
Anal Safety
Anal safety is key. We have lost count of the number of times we’ve heard about items that have gotten lost in the rectum. Literally disappeared into the darkness. Sucked up. The butt is a hungry li’l beast, is all we can say.
The rule of thumb is: If the toy isn’t safe, it shouldn’t be used for anal play. And if it’s not a safe anal toy, it shouldn’t go anywhere near your butt.
- A key? No.
- A shampoo bottle? No.
- A lightbulb? Oh, hell nah!
Googling weird things lost in a butt will enlighten you on what happens if you don’t take anal safety seriously. Please don’t join the folks who need to have an inappropriate item fished out of your bottom.
Next, lubrication is essential. The ass isn’t self-lubricating the same way a vagina is, so plenty of moisture must be added. Anal lubes are often viscous and thick, creating a soft layer between the delicate anus and the finger, toy, or penis (don’t start with a penis - you need to build up to that). Lube reduces friction and the potential for pain. Add as(s) much lube as you think - and then a little more.
Nails - make sure any nails going near your tush are short and smooth. It is possible to ass-finger with long nails, but we recommend starting with short 'uns until you are confident you won't scratch or be scratched.
What Is A Safe Anal Toy?
A safe anal toy has a flared base or a handle. The base or handle needs to be wide enough to ensure the toy won’t slip out of your grip and get sucked up accidentally, even if your fingers and tush are lubed up. It's not bigger than you can comfortably manage. We all have aspirations, but don't be a Size Queen or King. Keeping it humble keeps your peach safe. For your peace of mind, we should mention that we only stock safe anal toys at Sh!
Gentle Steps Into Anal Play
The anus is rich in nerve endings, which means it’s receptive to stimulation and pleasure. Anal massage, rimming, or gentle vibration are all good ways to warm up the booty before deeper exploration.
Anal surfacing is the term for pleasuring the outside of the anus. This can be done with fingers or an anal-safe sex toy. If you are exploring with a partner, ask them to gently stroke and tease the rim without dipping inside. Apply lube for enhanced sensuality, and revel in the erotic sensations.
Provided you can reach, you can explore surfacing during solo play too, but using a toy may make it easier on the wrist. Swirling and teasing with an anal vibrator like the Petite Sensations Teazer is truly delicious - the vibrations can be felt around the entire area. This super-slim plug can be used for teasing the rim, dipping into the anus (aka shallowing), or fully inserted if you think that will be your jam.
Surfacing is a delicious way to warm up for shallowing, which is the sensual act of dipping the tip inside. Not full-on penetration, mind you - just a li'l taster. Shallowing can be done with a finger, a toy or the tip of a dildo or penis.
Read more about anal surfacing & shallowing here.
Prostate Play: Next-Level Anal Pleasure
One reason anal play still carries stigma for men is the outdated idea that enjoying P-spot stimulation somehow challenges masculinity or sexual identity. The prostate is simply a part of the male body with incredible erotic potential, and exploring it has nothing to do with orientation.
In reality, anal play opens up an extra dimension of pleasure for those with a prostate. The P-spot sits just a few centimetres inside the rectum, and can be stimulated with fingers, toys, or gentle pressure. When touched in the right way, it can create deep, full-body sensations that feel very different from other types of arousal. For some, it can even intensify orgasms or trigger hands-free climaxes!
Anal Aftercare
A little aftercare goes a long way in keeping your body comfortable after anal play. Gently wash the area with mild soap and warm water, then pat dry. Because the muscles have been working, it also helps to rest and hydrate. Your toys need a careful wash, too.
It’s common to feel vulnerable after anal play, so a cosy cuddle with your partner can help you ease into your after-play mode. If you are resting solo, we recommend having a snuggly blanket and some favourite snacks on hand.
At Sh!, we see Anal August as the perfect time to shine a light on all things bum-related - celebrating the pleasure, playfulness, and possibilities of anal fun. It’s a chance to learn more about your body, talk openly with your partner, and maybe try something new. With consent, safety, and plenty of lube at the heart of your adventures, anal play can be a wonderfully sensual part of your sex life.
