Rimming, also called analingus or anilingus, is the act of one person using their mouth, lips, and tongue to stimulate their partner's anal opening and the surrounding area. It falls under both oral sex and anal play, and is practiced by people of all genders and sexual orientations. The practice can be purely pleasurable on its own or used as foreplay before other sexual activities. The anus and perineum contain a high concentration of nerve endings, making the area quite sensitive to touch and oral stimulation. Rimming can involve licking, kissing, gentle sucking, tracing the rim with the tongue tip, or applying light pressure with the tongue. The giver controls the type and intensity of stimulation, while the receiver can guide through verbal or physical feedback. Some people incorporate rimming into dominant or submissive dynamics, framing it as an act of worship or service. Others enjoy it simply for the physical sensation. It is a widely practiced sexual activity across many relationship types and orientations.
In practice, rimming typically begins with the receiver getting comfortable in a position that allows easy access, such as lying face down with hips slightly elevated, on all fours, or lying on their back with knees drawn toward the chest. The giver starts slowly, often with light kisses or licks to the surrounding area before focusing on the anal opening itself. Sensations range from gentle and teasing to more focused and intense depending on technique and pressure.
Common variations include combining rimming with manual stimulation of the genitals, incorporating it into a longer oral sex session, or using it as part of a power-exchange dynamic where it signals submission or adoration. Some givers find deep satisfaction in pleasuring a partner this way, and the act can carry an element of intimacy or trust given its nature.
What draws people to rimming varies. Receivers often cite the density of nerve endings in the area producing sensations unlike other forms of stimulation. Givers frequently report enjoying the closeness and the visible physical response of their partner. The taboo element, the sense that it is a deeply private and trusting act, is also part of the appeal for many people. Communication during the act helps both partners calibrate pressure, rhythm, and focus.
Hygiene is the primary safety consideration. The anal area naturally harbors bacteria and, potentially, pathogens including hepatitis A, HPV, herpes, gonorrhea, and intestinal parasites, which can be transmitted through analingus. Using a dental dam (a thin latex or polyurethane sheet) or a cut-open condom as a barrier significantly reduces transmission risk. Both partners should be tested for STIs regularly. The receiver may choose to shower or bathe beforehand. Enthusiastic, ongoing consent is essential. Either partner should feel comfortable pausing or stopping at any time without explanation.
Rimming carries some STI transmission risk, including hepatitis A, herpes, gonorrhea, and intestinal parasites, because the anal area can harbor pathogens. Using a dental dam as a barrier and keeping up with STI testing for both partners are the most effective ways to reduce risk. Vaccination against hepatitis A and HPV also provides additional protection.
Most people shower or bathe beforehand and pay extra attention to cleaning the anal area with mild soap. Some people also use a gentle external rinse. A high-fiber diet and regular bowel habits tend to reduce anxiety about cleanliness over time. There is no need for an internal douche unless you are also planning penetrative anal play.
Many receivers report intense pleasure because the anus and perineum are rich in nerve endings. The sensation is distinct from other forms of stimulation and is often described as warm, diffuse, and highly sensitive. Response varies widely between individuals, so communication helps the giver adjust technique to what works best.
Yes, several infections can be transmitted through analingus, including hepatitis A and B, herpes simplex virus, HPV, gonorrhea, syphilis, and intestinal parasites like Giardia. Using a barrier such as a dental dam substantially lowers, though does not eliminate, this risk. Regular STI screening and open communication with partners are important practices.
A dental dam is a thin, flat sheet of latex or polyurethane placed over the anal or vulvar area during oral sex to act as a barrier between mouths and skin or mucous membranes. They are available at pharmacies, sexual health clinics, and online. If you cannot find one, a latex or nitrile glove cut open and laid flat works as a practical substitute.
Rimming is practiced widely outside of explicitly kinky contexts and is common in many otherwise vanilla relationships. While it can be incorporated into power-exchange dynamics as an act of service or worship, most people who enjoy it do so simply for the physical pleasure. Survey data consistently show it is one of the more commonly reported oral sex practices among adults of all orientations.
Reviewed by Reviewed by the Jar of Kinks editorial team