Rimming is the type of thing a lot of people have heard of but really have nothing but questions about. Is it something people actually do, or is it just the stuff of sexual legend? How common an activity is it? And how should someone approach the business of rimming if it appeals to them?
Here we’ll dig into a bit of everything you need to know, starting with a look at what rimming really is and how it works.
What Is Rimming?
Rimming is a sex act that involves using the tongue, lips, and mouth to stimulate and please a partner’s anal area. As you may already know, if you’ve experimented with other forms of backdoor play, the anal area is incredibly nerve-rich and very responsive to all types of stimulation.
The gentle sensations a partner’s mouth can bring to the table can feel especially good on the anus. Plus, like many forms of anal play, rimming can be remarkably intimate and help you feel a lot closer to your partner.
How Does Rimming Work?
Rimming is about more than simply spreading your partner’s cheeks and going to town with your tongue. Just think about all the different ways there are to stimulate your partner’s genitals orally. You can lick, suck, kiss, or tease, and each of those techniques brings its own sensation to the table.
The same is true of rimming, and everyone has their approach to doing it. Some like to use their tongues to gently circle the anus, perhaps even penetrating it. Others like to treat their partner’s anus like a mouth, gently making out with it in a similar way.
Is Rimming Safe?
As is the case with any type of anal play – especially any that could potentially allow harmful bacteria to enter the body – it’s essential to keep safety in mind. That said, rimming is probably best performed with a barrier in place for safety’s sake.
Dental dams are a good idea, as they also help prevent the spread of STIs. However, you can use plastic wrap in a pinch, as it will allow you both to feel all those beautiful sensations. Add a little lube to the side of the wrap that will be flush against the anus for a pleasant slippery sensation.
But if nothing but raw rimming will do for you and your partner, then cleanliness is critical. Try enjoying a nice, thorough shower or bath together before you play to ensure the receiver’s anus is as clean as possible. An anal douche can add some extra peace of mind to the mix, as well.
How to Kick Things Up a Notch
If you or your partner are new to rimming, it’s best to start with the basics to see if you enjoy the sensations involved. Discuss things together thoroughly. Cover what you did or didn’t like about the experience and what you might want to try differently next time.
Then you can start experimenting a bit. Here are some tips to play around with when you’re both ready to take things to the next level.
Add a toy to the mix
Sex toys can be incredible ways to elevate just about any bedroom activity you already enjoy on your own or with your partner, so don’t be afraid to include them in your rimming routine.
A small vibrator designed to fit around the tongue to enhance oral sex is an excellent choice for rimming. But you can also experiment with other small vibrators, as well. Just make sure that they’re anal-safe if you’re planning anything penetrative.
Experiment with different lubes
Although there’s definitely nothing wrong with sticking to your standard lube choices when it comes to rimming, this is an excellent opportunity to try some different options on for size. For example, a flavored or scented lube can make the experience of giving a lot more fun.
You may also want to experiment with sensation-based lubes to see whether you like what they do for your rimming experiences. There are warming lubes, cooling lubes, and much more, so make sure you thoroughly explore the possibilities.
And don’t forget to communicate, communicate, and communicate some more. You never want to surprise your partner with something completely unexpected in the bedroom, so always discuss any major new moves you want to test before putting them into play.
Don’t forget to check in with each other after you’ve tried something new, as well. Talk about whether you each liked it and to what extent. Then, decide whether you want to do it again, and always respect your partner’s wishes if they’re not into something specific.
Ultimately, rimming is a lot like any other sex act. Yes, people do it, and yes, it can be pleasurable. But technique, safety, and communication will make all the difference in how things go.
