Guide to Rimming and Analingus

by Lovehoney

on May 3, 2017

Analingus or rimming is simply using your mouth, tongue, lips and sometimes teeth to stimulate your partner's anus and (in the case of a male recipient) his testicles. As the anus has so many sensitive nerve-endings, it can be incredibly pleasurable for both men and women. Lots of couples enjoy rimming during foreplay, or as a sexy accompaniment to oral sex.

Rimming is sometimes referred to as 'playing the rusty trombone', which is when the person who is giving the oral attention also reaches around to the penis and makes rapid stroking movements up and down the shaft. The mouth-to-bottom coupled with arm actions resembles someone playing a brass instrument.

Interested in trying rimming or playing the rusty trombone? We've put together some tips to help you enjoy safe and satisfying play.


1. Communicate

Obviously not everyone is in a relationship where they can sit down over dinner and discuss whether both partners fancy a bit of analingus. However, communication is often most powerful when it's non-verbal. Your body language tells your partner what you do and don't enjoy, so if you're the one who wants to be on the receiving end of rimming, then respond positively to all activity in this area, or gently lean into your partner as they give you oral sex.

We're not advising that you just go shoving your bottom in your partner's face, but a subtle movement here or there will give them the message that you're happy for them to make their way further south.

If you'd like to give your partner some oral action in that department, start by paying them a little more attention around the anus and gauge their response. Moans and leaning into your touch are good, moving away or directing your attention elsewhere might signal that they're not up for anal play.

Lovehoney Deluxe Anal Douche2. Make Sure You're Squeaky Clean

The reasons behind this one don't need to be explained. Give yourself a good wash in that area with an unscented soap, or for a more intensive clean use an anal douche like the Lovehoney Deluxe Anal Douche (right), which will ensure you're clean for any anal play that may happen afterwards.

If you usually like to tame or get rid of body hair before oral sex, pay attention to the area around your anus. You might not think you have a lot of hair there, but you'd be surprised!

3. Safety First

Rimming can be intensely pleasurable, as there are a whole bunch of nerve endings which surround your anus and many people find gentle stimulation with the tongue a real game-changer.

However, if you (or your partner) aren't comfortable with such intimate licking, why not try a dental dam? These nifty shields are often flavored and act as a thin barrier between your tongue and your partner. As well as making rimming a tasty treat, it also protects you from STIs.

It's also really important to remember that the anus can hold some bacteria which isn't vagina-friendly. So, in the same way that you wouldn't have vaginal sex after the penis being in/around the anus, you shouldn't give vaginal oral sex after rimming.

Lovehoney 10 Function Dream Toy Bullet Vibrator4. Use Toys

Teaming analingus with a vibrator or stroker gives an incredible addition to your partner's pleasure. With so much intense stimulation going on, using toys during rimming can create mind-blowing blended orgasms. Try using a small bullet vibrator to tease the area around the anus, or even using a butt plug to get your partner used to the sensation of anal stimulation.

5. Pay Surrounding Areas Attention

Don't neglect the sensitive inner thighs, perineum and testicles when giving some oral attention to the backside. Gentle squeezes to the bottom can intensify your analingus experience.

6. Vary Your Tongue Movements

Your tongue is one of the strongest muscles in your body. Alternate between a flat, wide tongue for gentle strokes and a stiff, pointed tip for pinpoint precision. Mix it up so your partner never knows what's coming next.

7. Use Your Breath

Gently blowing hot and cold air onto the area during oral sex can intensify the sensations and heighten nerve endings. Alternate licks and blows for incredible pleasure.

Durex Play Passion Fruit Flavored Lubricant8. Choose a Long-Lasting Lube

Flavored lube is great for all oral sex, and lends itself perfectly to rimming - especially the first time. If you think you'll be progressing onto penetration with your tongue, fingers, toys or penis then start with a long-lasting lubricant which you won't need to reapply - you don't want to ruin the moment once you're into it. If you're going to be trying anal penetration, just make sure to choose a lubricant which is specifically for anal play (they're thicker with more 'cushioning') and check that it's compatible with any toys/condoms you may be using.

9. Find The Right Position

Everyone has favoured positions for oral sex and some they're not so keen on. The key to enjoying rimming is to be 100% comfortable, so have a go at finding your ideal position. Common favourites include a 69, face-sitting, or lying on your front with a pillow under your hips, however if you like it hanging from the ceiling or upside down, then that's just great with us!

10. Take Your Time

Put your partner at ease and try to make sure they are completely relaxed and fully aroused. All anal play is easier if your partner is already hugely turned on, so get them half way there before you try your hand (or mouth) at rimming. Women often find anal play easier and more comfortable once they've already had one orgasm. Take things nice and slow and don't be afraid to tell your partner if you'd like it to be firmer, softer or to stop altogether. Most of all, take your time and enjoy.

Sqweel Go USB Rechargeable Oral Sex SimulatorAnd Finally….

Long for some rimming action but don't have a partner who's up for analingus? Never fear!

Take a look at the Sqweel Go, an oral sex simulator that is the perfect companion to all things oral and the ideal solo rimming toy.

This nifty toy features 10 silicone tongues that rotate to lick your clitoris, penis or anus. Enjoy 3 powerful speeds and 3 exciting pattern functions as the slick tongues lap at your most sensitive areas. And best of all, it's waterproof AND usb rechargeable - so super easy to clean and you don't have to deal with batteries. Result!


Need more help?

You can Contact Customer Care, who will be able to help you find the anal sex toy or lube. You can send an email any time, and telephone or live chat to an experienced advisor.

Contact Lovehoney Customer Care


Lovehoney

Written by Lovehoney. For collaborative posts between Lovehoney team members and guest authors
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Originally published on May 3, 2017. Updated on Aug 6, 2020
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