Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us? According to Dr. Kristie Overstreet , a psychotherapist and clinical sexologist, the term stems from the fact that the outer edges of the anus—AKA the rim—are often a focus area for stimulation. As for why anyone might want to try rimming—aside from the sheer novelty of it, of course—your butt is packed with nerve endings that are super sensitive, which is why it feels so darn good for many people.
You know, the one that broke the Internet? It's possible. Hepatitis A, herpes, HPV, syphilis, and gonorrhea can be transmitted through a rim job, Goldstein says. Hepatitis A is directly spread through feces, whereas syphilis , HPV genital warts , and herpes are spread through skin-to-skin contact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC.
While herpes is usually located in the mouth or genitals, you can also get it on your lower back and buttocks—known as sacral herpes. Oral gonorrhea can be spread by rimming, too. There are a couple of things you can do to decrease the likelihood of STI transmission during rimming. First, keep an eye out for cuts or abrasions on the tongue, lips, gums, or rectum. These cuts can become entry points for infection and transmission, the CDC notes. Second, there's the option of using a dental dam, Goldstein says.
Dental dams are thin, latex or polyurethane sheets used between the mouth and vagina or anus during oral sex. Luckily, this is pretty easily preventable.
The key is washing around your anus with soap and water. But make sure to use antibacterial soap! Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to douche or enema to prep for rimming. Make sure both you and your partner are down to give this a try.
