I had a reader post a question regarding an article I wrote last week on anal sex. The question was this...."What's with the glove? What's the point?"

Simply put, a penis can be an awfully big to be the first thing you stick up someone's butt . Better to start with something smaller and work your way up. Fingers are an excellent starting point. Use one finger, then two, to initiate your partner into the mysteries of anal penetration. Try it while performing oral sex for an extra thrill. Be sure your fingernails are trimmed, don't forget the lube, and you might even want to wear latex gloves. This is a safety procedure but not needed.

As your partner gets used to your fingers, you might graduate to a butt plug or a small dildo. Dildos are available in all shapes and sizes. Go shopping together to get one she thinks she can handle. Remember, though, don't put the dildo into the vagina after putting it into the anus. The safest way is to put a condom on the dildo before using it, and to wash it thoroughly immediately after. Baby shampoo will do the trick on most toys.