From Slate Magazine · Jessica Stoya, Rich Juzwiak · · 2m
Sex Advice: Anal Sex Safety and Partner Concerns
Man worries about long-term anal sex effects on partner despite her enjoyment.
In brief
Man worries about long-term anal sex effects on partner despite her enjoyment. A man concerned about potential long-term health risks from frequent anal sex with his partner seeks medical advice, but a specialist reassures him that as long as she's happy and consensual, the risks are minimal. Originally reported by…
Partner's Experience
A man in his 40s has recently started seeing a woman who enjoys anal sex with him, but she experiences moderate to intense pain during sessions.
“She is the only woman I’ve ever been with who has multiple orgasms from strictly penis-in-anus sex.”
Partner's Request
She specifically asks for rough, intense anal sex without warming up her anus, and consistently declines slower, gentler alternatives.
“She likes it best when I do not really 'warm up' her ass.”
Concerns About Long-Term Effects
The man worries about potential long-term physical effects like loss of anal sphincter tone, which could lead to bowel issues later in life.
“I’m concerned that anal sex of this duration, intensity, and frequency can have adverse long-term physical effects.”
Medical Expert Consultation
Dr. J. Michael Berry-Lawhorn, a clinical professor at UCSF’s Anal Neoplasia Clinic, confirmed there’s limited data on long-term effects of receptive anal sex.
“I’ve talked to a lot of people about their sexual habits, what they do, their issues, and their problems.”
Fecal Incontinence Risk
A 2016 study found higher rates of fecal incontinence among people who practice anal intercourse compared to those who don’t.
“Fecal incontinence rates were higher among women and men reporting anal intercourse compared with those not reporting anal intercourse.”
Mechanism of Incontinence
Dr. Stephen E. Goldstone suggested that repeated insertion through a contracted internal sphincter muscle may cause cumulative damage leading to incontinence.
“Insertion of a penis … causes your muscle to contract involuntarily. Repeated insertion through a contracted internal sphincter muscle may cause cumulative damage so that the muscle loses its ability to seal the anorectal canal tightly.”
Anal Precancerous Lesions
Dr. Berry-Lawhorn noted women with a history of anal intercourse are more likely to have anal precancerous lesions.
“There is some literature that shows women who have a history of anal intercourse are more likely to have anal precancerous lesions.”
Recommendations
The doctor recommends Kegel exercises, good bowel habits, and HPV screening for anal disease to maintain long-term health.
“He also recommends Kegels and the general promotion of good bowel function (like eating plenty of fiber).”
Expert Perspective
Dr. Berry-Lawhorn reassured the man that as long as the partner is happy and consent is maintained, the risks are minimal and there’s no need for judgment.
“It’s true, women and men who practice anal intercourse have higher rates of fecal incontinence. On the other hand, life is complex. I think it’s about risks and benefits.”
Partner's Health Status
The woman reports no adverse effects or changes in bowel or bladder habits after several months of regular anal sex.
“She said she sees no adverse effects and has experienced no changes in bowel or bladder habits.”
Long-Term Health Concerns
The man is concerned about potential long-term health effects like loss of anal sphincter tone, which could lead to bowel issues later in life.
“I’m concerned that anal sex of this duration, intensity, and frequency can have adverse long-term physical effects.”
Expert Reassurance
Dr. Berry-Lawhorn states that the woman’s happiness and mutual consent outweigh potential health risks, and there’s no need for concern.
“I think as long as she’s happy and it’s mutually consented and agreeable, they should continue to do what they’re doing.”
Conclusion
The man and his partner can continue their anal sex routine without health concerns as long as they maintain mutual consent and happiness.
“I don’t think there should be any judgments about that.”
The short version
A man concerned about potential long-term health risks from frequent anal sex with his partner seeks medical advice, but a specialist reassures him that as long as she's happy and consensual, the risks are minimal.
