If you’ve ever felt curious about rimming but too awkward or shy to say it out loud, welcome. You’re in exactly the right place. I’m not here to make you feel small, weird, or unsure – I’m here to tell you the truth: exploring rimming and discovering the hottest rimming positions can be an incredibly intimate, fun, and totally body-positive experience.
I’ve been a sex educator for years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: people crave real, judgment-free guidance on the things they’re most curious (and nervous) about. Rimming is one of those things. And I totally get it. You’ve probably got questions about hygiene, body confidence, positions, or how to even bring it up with your partner.
So let me say this loud and clear: rimming is normal and beautiful. And yes, people of every shape, gender, and flexibility level can enjoy it. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the what, why, and most importantly – the best rimming positions to maximize pleasure, comfort, and connection.
What Is Rimming and Why Do People Enjoy It?
Understanding the Sensation and Appeal
Rimming, also called analingus, is oral stimulation of the anus using the lips, tongue, and mouth. It might sound taboo, but trust me – it’s far more common (and far more pleasurable) than most people realize.
So, why do people enjoy it? For many, it’s the mix of intense nerve endings, the thrill of vulnerability, and the delicious contrast of something both tender and taboo. The anus has over 8,000 nerve endings around it – yes, you read that right – and when touched with intention and care, it can create shivering, toe-curling pleasure.
Health, Hygiene, and Consent Considerations
Like anything sexual, safety and trust are key. Rimming does carry some health risks if hygiene is overlooked, so let’s talk real about it:
- Ensure the receiver has showered or cleaned the area with wipes or a bidet.
- Keep fingernails trimmed and avoid rimming if you or your partner have sores, hemorrhoids, or infections.
- Use protection! Dental dams or even cutting a condom open can act as a barrier between mouth and skin.
And of course: consent is everything. Rimming is intimate – so a clear, enthusiastic yes from both partners is a must.
How to Get Comfortable with Rimming
Building Confidence and Communication
If you’re nervous, that’s okay! I was too, the first time. Tell your partner you’re curious about trying rimming, and be specific: maybe you’d like to receive or you’re excited to try giving. Framing it as “something I’ve wanted to explore with you” helps make it feel like a shared discovery instead of a pressure-filled request.
Confidence also means knowing your body deserves pleasure. Say it with me: everyone has an ass, and everyone deserves joy. That includes you.
Tips for First-Time Explorers
- Start with external play – kissing, gentle touch, light tongue flicks.
- Take your time. Build anticipation with massage or teasing touches.
- Use a flavored lube with a barrier if taste is a concern.
- Play in the shower if that helps you feel extra clean and confident.
And one last thing I wish someone told me: laugh if you need to. Sex is messy, silly, real. That’s part of what makes it amazing.
10 Best Rimming Positions for Maximum Pleasure
Here are the top rimming positions that I recommend based on comfort, access, and pleasure – whether you’re giving, receiving, or both.
1. Face-Down (Classic Doggy Style Variant)
This position is perfect for beginners. The receiver lies flat on their stomach with legs slightly apart. It gives the giver full access while the receiver can relax into the mattress. For plus-size bodies, adding a under-hip pillow can help elevate and expose the area comfortably.
2. Laid-Back Lover (Receiver on Their Back)
Here, the receiver lies on their back and pulls knees towards their chest. It’s a very stable, revealing position and great for those who want visual connection as well. You can tuck a pillow under the lower back for support and even hold hands during it – swoon.
3. All Fours (Traditional Doggy Style)
With the receiver on hands and knees, this classic position gives amazing access for the giver and a feeling of openness and submission for the receiver (when consensual). Don’t forget knee pads or a soft blanket underneath – comfort is sexy!
4. Pillow-Boosted Hips
Place a firm pillow under the receiver’s hips while they lie on their stomach. This lifts the booty and spreads the cheeks naturally, making it easier for the giver to get deep with their mouth and tongue. Memory foam pillows work great for this!
5. Over-the-Edge (Edge of the Bed Technique)
The receiver lies on their back on the bed, hips at the edge, legs lifted. The giver kneels or stands in front. This is low-effort, high-reward. For larger bodies, this position removes strain by letting gravity help with access and support.
6. Seated Face Lift (On a Chair or Couch)
The receiver sits on a low couch or sturdy chair, spreading their cheeks manually or with the help of the giver. The giver kneels between their legs. It’s casual, affectionate, and perfect for everyone from the flexible to those with mobility limitations.
7. Standing Bend (Forward Bend at the Waist)
The receiver stands and bends over something solid – like a couch arm, table, or bathroom counter. The giver kneels from behind. This is great for spontaneous rimming sessions, especially if there’s not enough space to fully lie down. Plus, it’s HOT.
8. 69 Variation for Rimming
If both partners enjoy rimming or combining it with oral play, a side-lying 69 with small adjustments works. You can twist slightly at the waist to access each other’s anus while lying mostly belly-to-belly or side-to-side. Great for mutual fun!
9. Side-Lying Spooning
Gentler and more relaxed, this position involves lying side-by-side in a spoon, with the giver sliding back slightly and lifting the top cheek. Ideal for cuddly couples or those wanting something low-energy yet intimate. Great for morning-after lounging too.
10. Yoga-Inspired Positions (Happy Baby, Legs Up)
If the receiver has the flexibility (or wants to play with it), lying on the back and pulling knees up and out like in “Happy Baby” pose gives wide open access. You can also rest legs against the wall or use a sex sling for support. Do what your body allows – and makes you feel amazing doing it.
Pro Tips for Safer, More Enjoyable Rimming
Hygiene Best Practices
- Take a full shower beforehand or use cleansing wipes specifically made for intimate areas.
- Trim or groom hair if it makes you feel more confident, but know it’s not required.
- Keep the area dry after washing to reduce irritation.
Using Barriers or Flavored Protection
Dental dams or cut-open condoms are a great option for safer sex. There are even flavored versions designed for anal play – think vanilla, cherry, or mint. If you want that clean taste without barriers, opt for an external rinse like B-Vibe’s Anal Cleansing Wipes or a mild, body-safe soap.
Adding Stimulation with Tongue, Fingers, or Toys
Once comfort is built, adding layers of sensation is where things heat up:
- Use your tongue in circles or slow flicks.
- Try adding a lubricated finger alongside, starting shallow and gradual.
- Introduce toys like a rimming plug (like B-Vibe’s Rimming Plug Petite – yes, it vibrates and rotates!) for hands-free stimulation.
How to Communicate Boundaries and Desires
Consent and Comfort Before, During, and After
The biggest orgasm killer is uncertainty. Before starting, ask: “How does this sound to you?” or “What would feel good for us to try?”
During, check in with a simple “Still feel good?” and read body cues. Nonverbal signs matter. After, have a cuddle or a laugh and hold space for any emotion that arises. Intimacy makes space for trust.
Establishing Safe Words or Cues
I always recommend picking a neutral word or non-verbal sign to pause or stop instantly. You can use the standard stoplight system (green/yellow/red), or make it playful: “banana” works just fine. The key is mutual respect. Every body deserves that.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Confidence and Pleasure in Rimming
Here’s what I want you to leave with: There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to rimming – or pleasure. But if you’re curious, willing, and open to trying new ways of connecting with your body or partner, it can unlock a beautiful, electrifying form of intimacy.
And if you’ve ever thought “I’m not sexy enough for that,” let me be the one to tell you – you already are. Sex and joy are not reserved for a certain shape, size, flexibility level, or confidence score. Everyone deserves hot, affirming, enthusiastic pleasure. Including you. Especially you.
Try one of these rimming positions. Talk to your partner. Explore your boundaries. And most of all – have so much fun discovering something deliciously new about yourself.
