How do you prepare for anal properly?

The most important things are lube, going slowly, and making sure you're both relaxed and comfortable.

The anus doesn't produce its own lubrication, so lube is not optional. Use a water-based or silicone-based lubricant, and use plenty of it. Reapply if things start to feel dry.

Before you start, going to the toilet beforehand and having a shower can help you feel more comfortable and confident. You don't need to do anything extreme in terms of cleaning. A normal wash with warm water is fine.

Start small and slow. If this is your first time, don't go straight to penetration with a penis. Start with a finger or just gentle external pressure so the muscles have time to relax. The anus has two rings of muscle that need to loosen up before anything goes in comfortably. Rushing past that is what causes pain.

Use a condom. Anal sex carries a higher risk of STIs than vaginal sex because the tissue is thinner and more likely to tear. A condom protects both of you.

Talk to each other throughout. If something hurts, stop. If something feels good, say so. This isn't something you can do well without communication.

The most important things for preparing for anal sex are lube, going slowly, and talking to each other.

The bum does not get wet on its own, so lube is a must. Use water-based or silicone-based lube and use plenty of it.

Going to the toilet beforehand and having a wash with warm water can help you feel more comfortable. You do not need to do anything extreme.

Start small and slow. Do not go straight to a penis. Try a finger first so the muscles have time to relax. If it hurts, stop.

Use a condom. STIs spread more easily through anal sex.

Talk to each other the whole time. If you cannot talk about it, you are not ready to do it.