Happy Pride Month! Sexual wellness and gender expression are an important part of good health. Pelvic floor therapy can play a meaningful role in helping individuals engage in this activity safely and comfortably. Whether you are exploring anal receptive sex, binding or tucking, understanding your body and pelvic floor can reduce discomfort and lower risk of injury.
Anal Receptive Sex
Anal receptive sex refers to receiving penetration through the anus using a penis, finger or a toy. People may engage in anal sex for pleasure, intimacy, exploration, or gender affirmation.
When engaging in anal receptive sex, pain should not be “pushed through.” The anus does not naturally self-lubricate, meaning preparation and communication with your partner are especially important to reduce risk of injury. Potential risks include:
- anal fissureshemorrhoids/ irritation
- rectal irritation/ injury
- pelvic floor muscle strain
Binding
Binding is the practice of using a binder, sports bra, or compressor garment to provide the appearance of flatter chest. Safe binding practices include:
- limiting binding time to no more than 8 hours
- monitoring for warning signs: shortness of breath, dizziness/ lightheadedness, chest tightness/ pain
- using a binder made for binding, avoid DIY materials
- wearing the correct size
The risk of binding for prolonged periods of time, or with the wrong materials include:
- back and shoulder pain
- breast pain
- difficulty breathing and decreased lung capacity
- local skin irritation/ fungal infections
- rib bruising
Butt plugs
Butt plugs are tapered, anal toys designed to remain in the rectum for a brief period of time to provide an internal fullness and pressure. Butt plugs can be used in preparation for penetrative anal sex, pleasure, pelvic floor relaxation, or sexual exploration.
For safety purposes, rectal toys should be made from medical grade silicone, stainless steel or tempered glass, and should be flared at the base with a retrieval handle to prevent from becoming lodged inside the rectum. Tips for safe usage include:
- Start slowly and know your limits, discuss these with your partner before and during intercourse.
- Before and after each session communicate your feelings to your partner regarding anal experimentation.
- Use high quality lubricant, choose a water-based lubricant – important to prevent friction between your skin and the toy.
- Note that appropriate anal toys do not stretch or damage anal sphincter, the appropriate toy-size and use of lubricant is essential!
- Anal play should not be painful. If you feel significant pain, STOP, use more lubricant, and communicate with your partner.
Other Rectal Toys
Rectal toys are designed specifically for anal insertion. Toys can be used for relaxation, pleasure, anal dilation training, and sexual activity with a partner. Rectal sex toys include:
- anal beads
- anal dilator/ anal training set
- anal dildos, vibrating anal toys
- butt plugs
- prostate massagers
Anal beads are sex toys used in the anus to enhance orgasm. Anal beads are a series of beads, attached in a row to a cord with a circular hook on the end. The cord is inserted into the rectum and pulled in and out at various speeds, by the individual or the individual’s partner, increasing sexual arousal and pleasure.
Tucking
Tucking is the practice of pushing the testicles up into the inguinal canal and tucking the penis and scrotal sack posteriorly into the perineal region. A gaffe, or tight underwear, is placed over the penis and testes to maintain the alignment. This practice is used to hide the penis and testes allowing for a smooth/ flatter contour in the crotch area.
Safe tucking practices include:
– Avoid excessively tight garments or skin irritating adhesives – this can restrict blood flow.
– Practice good hygiene and keep the area cool and dry – reduces chafing and infections.
– Take breaks – remove the tuck when sleeping and take breaks whenever possible.
Prioritize consent, comfort, body awareness and safety when exploring sexuality and gender expression. Pelvic floor therapists provide supportive, non- judgmental care for individuals experiencing pain or discomfort related to these sexual activities. We are trained to support you with inclusive, patient-centered care and compassion, focused on creating a better quality of life.
Welcome New Patients
Solstice Physiotherapy accepts new patients at our five New York Locations, including New York City: Midtown & Downtown, Long Island, and Westchester.
Contact us to make an appointment for your initial evaluation.
We do accept insurance and are out-of-network providers.