Let’s talk about it: butt stuff. Specifically, how to keep things fresh, comfy, and safe when preparing for anal play or sex.
Whether you're a seasoned bottom, a power verse, or just anal-curious, anal douching is something a lot of people do, but not a lot of people talk about. We're here to change that. 👏🏽
So let’s get into it — literally.
What Is Douching?
Anal douching is the process of rinsing out the rectum with liquid before anal play or penetration. Some people do it to feel cleaner or more confident, and that’s totally valid, but it’s not medically necessary for everyone, every time.
So, how do I do it? When it comes to how far to insert the douche, 1 to 2 inches is usually all you need, just enough to get past the outer sphincter. The nozzle should be soft and well-lubricated, and you should never force it in. As for how much water to use, start with about one bulb (roughly 4 to 6 ounces) of lukewarm water. You can repeat the process once or twice if needed, but avoid using large volumes or repeated flushes, which can irritate the rectum and strip away natural protective bacteria. The goal is to feel clean and comfortable, not to scrub yourself spotless.
The Do’s of Anal Douching
- Use body-safe tools: Pick a soft-tipped bulb or anal-safe enema kit. Skip anything sharp, rigid, or not made for butt play.
- Use warm (not hot!) water: Plain, lukewarm water is best. Skip soaps, essential oils, or hydrogen peroxide — those can irritate your insides. Your booty is not a science experiment.
- Take your time: Squirt a small amount of water, wait a few minutes, then release. Repeat gently until the water runs mostly clear (this could take 1–3 rounds — don’t overdo it!).
- Leave time to relax: Try to douche at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before sex. That gives your body time to settle and reduce the risk of leftover water making a surprise exit later.
- Listen to your body: If it feels uncomfortable, stop. There’s no one right way to prepare for anal — your comfort and safety come first.
The Don’ts of Douching
- Don’t overdo it: Douching too often or too aggressively can irritate the lining of your rectum and actually increase your risk for small tears or infections. Less is more!
- Don’t use tap water if it’s not safe: If your local water supply isn't drinkable, it’s not booty-friendly either. Use filtered or bottled water instead.
- Don’t skip lube thinking you’re “clean enough”: Clean or not, anal sex always requires lube, because the rectum doesn’t self-lubricate. Water- or silicone-based is your best bet!
- Don’t stress it too much: Even with douching, the rectum is still a rectum. A little mess is normal, natural, and no big deal, especially with a respectful partner.
Bonus Bottom Tip: Add PrEP to Your Prep
Douching might make you feel fresh, but it won’t protect you from HIV. That’s where PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) comes in.
PrEP is a once-a-day pill or bimonthly shot that protects you from HIV, and when combined with regular testing, condoms, and communication, it gives you even more peace of mind during anal sex.
Curious about getting on PrEP? We offer it at all of our locations, no insurance? (we can help), no judgment, just care.
Anal play is normal. Douching is common. And you deserve access to info that’s accurate, affirming, and shame-free. Whatever your preferences or your position, we're here to help you stay safe, informed, and fabulous.
Have questions? Want to get tested, talk PrEP, or chat about safer sex tips? Slide into our clinics, walk-ins are always welcome. 🧼🍑
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
San Francisco AIDS Foundation – BETA Blog
- “How to Douche for Anal Sex (And Should You Even Do It?)” https://www.sfaf.org/collections/beta/how-to-douche-for-anal-sex/
Planned Parenthood
- Safer Sex & Anal Sex Overview
Avert: Global Information and Education on HIV and AIDS
- Anal Sex and HIV
The Joy of Gay Sex (Charles Silverstein & Felice Picano)
- Offers widely respected queer sexual health guidance, including on douching and anal hygiene practices.
