Rimming Guide: How to Give a Great Rim Job

Anal rimming, also known as analingus or a rim job, is the act of orally stimulating a partner’s anus. Licking, kissing, and sucking can stimulate the sensitive nerve endings in and around the anus and rectum. With thoughtful safer sex practices and clear communication, rimming can be a pleasurable sexual activity for persons of all genders and sexual orientations. While rimming is generally safe, there are a few things to consider before trying it. - __Sexually transmitted infections__: Rimming can spread STIs like herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, syphilis, and human papillomavirus (HPV). To reduce the risk of STI transmission, you can use a dental dam, which is a thin sheet of latex you can place over the anus to create a safe barrier. You can also try tongue condoms, which are designed for safe analingus. If you are experiencing cold sores, avoid engaging in a rim job to prevent the spread of infection from your mouth to your partner’s anus. Make sure you and your partner are regularly getting checked for STIs. - __Bacteria__: Your rectum naturally contains digestive bacteria, which can spread during any form of anal sex. Bacteria including E. coli and Salmonella can spread via riming, as can the hepatitis A virus. In order to avoid coming into contact with the bacteria that may be carried in feces, maintain good hygiene practices. When giving a rim job, keep your mouth and tongue focused on the anus without switching to other forms of oral sex since bacteria can spread to other parts of the body, causing issues like vaginal infection. - __Lubrication__: Lube is a must if you decide to engage in anal play. The anus does not self-lubricate like the vagina, and saliva is not an effective substitute. When using a dental dam, first apply a generous amount of [lube](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-use-lube) to the anus. Use water-based lubricants or silicone-based lubricants; oil-based lubes are not safe to use with dental dams since they break down latex. If you’re worried about the taste, consider using a flavored lube. If you and your partner decide to explore rimming as a type of anal stimulation, follow this step-by-step guide to safely engage in analingus. 1. __Talk to your partner first__. If you want to try rimming, start by telling your partner why you find it sexy and why it’s something you’d like to incorporate into your sex life. Be prepared for your partner to say no. You need consent before trying any form of sexual activity with a partner, including analingus. Remember that performing or receiving a rim job does not mean that other forms of anal sex are on the table. 2. __Clean up first__. The key to safe rimming is maintaining good hygiene practices. Use the bathroom at least an hour before engaging in anal play. Before receiving a rim job, take a shower with your partner and wash your anus with warm water and mild soap. If you are still worried about cleanliness, consider using an anal douche or enema. Be careful, though—overusing douches or enemas can result in the disruption of healthy gut bacteria. If you are experiencing gas, constipation, or diarrhea, avoid receiving a rim job until your digestive system is back to normal. 3. __Go slow__. When giving a rim job, take your time with various [foreplay techniques](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/foreplay-guide), allowing your partner to become fully aroused. Light some candles, put on sexy music, and undress slowly. When you’re turned on, your muscles relax, making it easier to enjoy anal stimulation. Try a long make-out session, then slowly kiss your way down your partner’s body. 4. __Find the right position__. There are several positions you and your partner can try for pleasurable analingus. If you are the receiving partner, consider lying on your back with your hips propped up under a pillow and your partner on their knees in front of you. You can also stand with your partner kneeling behind you. Another good rimming position to try is [doggy style](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/doggy-style-sex-position-guide). 5. __Experiment with different techniques__. When performing a rim job, explore different ways to stimulate your partner’s anus. Kiss your partner’s perineum, the area between their genitals and anus. Consider using your warm breath to tease your partner. Then, relax your tongue and start with long, slow licks. Try moving your tongue in a circular motion around your partner’s anus. Be sure to communicate clearly with your partner about what feels good and what doesn’t. Remember that if you or your partner becomes uncomfortable at any time, you can stop rimming immediately. 6. __Use your hands__. While it is possible to experience an anal orgasm in response to anal stimulation alone, stimulating other erogenous zones on your partner’s body can create an even more powerful sensation. During analingus, consider squeezing your partner’s [nipples](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/nipple-play-guide), rubbing their clit, fingering their vagina, or stroking their penis. With the right stimulation, a rim job can add a whole new pleasurable element to you and your partner’s orgasms. 7. __Consider sex toys__. The use of vibrators or BDSM gear like handcuffs can enhance your rim job. Consider purchasing sex furniture like [swings](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/guide-to-sex-swings) or wedge pillows to assist with difficult positions. If you are interested in solo anal play, some anal sex toys are specifically designed to stimulate the nerve endings around your anus by imitating the sensation of analingus. Craving a little more intimacy? Grab a [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com) and learn more about open <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication","linkCopy":"communication","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>communication with your partners, experimenting in the bedroom, and being your own best sexual advocate with a little help from Emily Morse (host of the wildly popular podcast *Sex With Emily*). Whether you’re experienced in anal play or wanting to try something new, rimming can be an exciting way for you and your partner to explore pleasurable sensations together.