Article: Lots of People Enjoy Anal Sex — So Why Is There Still So Much Stigma Among Doctors?
Anal sex has always been extremely stigmatized and filled with misconceptions like it’s “dirty,” “gross,” or a sexual experience reserved exclusively for those of a certain sexual orientation. However, these thoughts couldn’t be further from the truth.
Certified sex therapist Aliyah Moore, PhD, says people likely think this way because “women, as natural vulva owners, have always been known to have sexual intercourse in the most conventional way, and that is through their vaginas.” But she also adds that it has to do with the fact that “we live in a culture that continues to associate anal with homosexuality, and where homophobia very much persists.” Thinking this way, however, not only perpetuates a harmful and sex-shame-y narrative, but it could also prevent you from exploring a sexual act that can elicit lots of pleasure.
Some medical professionals aren’t exactly helping combat the stigma, though. The British Medical Journal (BMJ) just published an article meant to call out the stigmatization of anal sex among clinicians and educate people about the health risks associated with anal sex, including “increased rates of fecal incontinence and anal sphincter injury.” The problem is in the reporting, the writers of the study use harmful language themselves that appears to shame those who engage in anal sex.
Because it is based on tangible rewards (i.e. vastly superior orgasms), being anal only or primarily anal sex oriented is the most effective way to build a culture of inclusivity and total empathy.