Please remember, this column is designed to help the consumer seeking behavioral-health information, and not intended to be any form of psychotherapy or a replacement for professional, individualized services. Opinions expressed in the column are those of the columnist and do not represent the position of other SelfhelpMagazine.com staff.

Question

Don't you have to be sick or weird to have or want anal sex?

Answer

It is fairly common for people to have strong reaction around the subject of anal sex--that is, sexual activity that involves stimulating the anorectal area--often because of shame as well as anxiety around homosexuality that is thought to be associated with it.

However, artifacts depicting anal intercourse found in Incan ruins indicate that this variant of sexual practice was known in antiquity. Apparently, the practice is not only known but fairly common in the United States today. Studies reveal that it is most common among homosexual men and least common among lesbians. In the vast middle, 22-43% of bisexual and heterosexual men and women report that they have tried it at least once.

Anal sex is not for every one--even male homosexuals. Different studies indicate that anal sex is not the primary preferred method of sexual activity even for gay men. So it is hard to generalize about who would enjoy this activity and who would not. That's part of what makes sexuality novel and exciting--exploring what works best for you and your partner. Remember that there are "different strokes for different folks." No one should feel pressured into doing something they are not comfortable with nor should some one be judged for liking something other than mainstream sex.

03/18/98

Dr. Al Cooper, clinical director at the San Jose Marital and Sexuality Centre (408-248-9737), runs the training program for Counseling and Psychological Services at Stanford University. Dr. Cooper is internationally known for his work in sexuality and is freqently interviewed by the media. He currently writes a column in Men's Health Magazine.

Dr. Coralie Scherer coordinates online services for the Centre and specializes in sexual trauma, women's issues, and marital therapy.