Hello, Doctor: I am new to anal intercourse and enjoy it very much, although I am still learning to relax. My new boyfriend and I want to try it, but because of my lack of experience and he is very well endowed, we hesitate for fear it might hurt me. What are the possible dangers, especially in bleeding or other damage to my anus, and how likely is it that it can cure itself? I find it embarrassing asking something so basic, but we just don't know. Thanks for your help and the help you provide to so many of us. -Ben

Hi Ben, there is a real risk of injury in anal intercourse with forcible penetration without relaxation, but that can be easily overcome. When i was a surgical resident in Greenwich Village occasionally people would require surgery after ill-fated fisting. Microscopic bleeding with most intercourse permits entry of virus and disease with unsafe sex as well.

The diameter of what slowly exits anally, in normal elimination, can exceed male penile diameter . It is safe to use gel dildos of progressive size to stretch circumferential muscles comfortably. Experiment with lubrication or in a warm bath to improve relaxation and accommodation to pleasure this erogenous zone. -Ellar, M.D.