CREDIT: CANDIS BROSS
Always make sure you and your partner are relaxed, comfortable and - most importantly - actively consenting before trying new things in the bedroom. A relaxing bath is one way to get yourself both clean and in the mood.

Anal sex is poorly understood and often fetishized, but as it becomes more commonly seen in pornography and other media, curiosity increases. Regardless of gender or sexual orientation, anal sex is something that can be explored and enjoyed by anyone, provided safe practices are followed.

First things first — consent is sexy. While many people may tell jokes about things like the shocker — made famous by Dane Cook — or surprise anal, it's important to remember that the key to good, comfortable anal sex is relaxation. Surprising someone while you're in an exploratory mood isn't fair to either of you. Your partner may end up feeling violated and lose trust and you may cost yourself the sexy and fulfilling experience you crave.

Second, while condoms are important with all sexual activity, the thin lining in the anus makes disease transmission even more likely with anal sex. This is an area of your body made specifically to absorb water and nutrients, and it's easy for sneaky viruses to make their way through the porous membrane.

Equally important is the liberal use of a water-based lubricant. This can both prevent friction from breaking the condom, and will make the experience more enjoyable for the receiving partner. Oilbased lubricant and Vaseline should never be used, as they can actually ruin a condoms effectiveness and mess with the natural good bacteria your body needs.

So now you have permission, a box of condoms and a big bottle of lubricant — what's next? Since the key to non-painful anal is relaxation, patience is the key. Take your time and explore your partner. A nice sensual massage can be a great starting point. If you plan on being on the receiving end, practice calming breaths and let your body enjoy the touches. A warm bath or shower can also help a great deal, and helping your partner soap up can work both as foreplay and as a way to alleviate concerns about cleanliness.

When you finally get to the main event, remember that the anus is extremely sensitive, so even one well-lubed finger will feel like a lot at first. There are a ton of nerve endings in the area, which can create very intense sensations. Listening to your partner and checking the comfort level regularly is really important, as is easing off the second it begins to be painful, which if you are relaxed and going slow shouldn't happen.

Once you do get to the point of penetration, maintain patience and keep the lines of communication open. The second any discomfort is felt, stop and relax for a while. Don't pull out suddenly, as that can be an uncomfortable experience.

After finishing, cleanliness is key. It's essential that you remove or switch the condom between anal sex and any other activities. Make sure to wash up thoroughly, as there is a great deal of bacteria in the rectum.

Anal is unlikely to be much messier than other forms of sex — generally, the lower rectum and anus have little fecal matter in them — and can be enjoyable for both partners as long as it's done properly.