A handful of trust
It wasn’t until the late 80s, when examples first found their way into pornography and feature films, that fisting started to increase in popularity.
From anal fisting in Mysterious Skin to vaginal fisting in Chasing Amy, the intimacy and trust required has seen the sexual act become less taboo.
But if you’re curious about fisting and in need of advice – and advice is certainly recommended – don’t waste your time with internet search engines.
Headquarters employee Michael said fisting – a sexual activity that involves inserting the hand and forearm into the anus or vagina – did have some dangers and he recommended people take a few precautions before attempting it.
“The main sensation is more to do with the stretching of the anus opening,” Michael said.
“You need to start off slow with one finger at a time. Once all fingers are inside, a straight beak-like shape can be formed with your hand. When inserted, the fingers can either be clenched into a fist or remain in that position.”
Michael said it was important fingernails were trimmed and the inserted hand or hands covered with a latex glove to prevent internal scratches and tears. The glove should be complemented with an oil-free lubricant to help avoid breakage.
Other key requirements are patience – go slow and relax – and trust. The fear of being injured has a lot to do with how much you relax. Ensuring there is good communication and trust is essential in making this activity safe and enjoyable.
ACON community health director Nick Corrigan said it was also important to wash both your hands and switch gloves if your fisting activities switched from anus to vagina in the one session. He said fisting without gloves also increased the risk of hepatitis A and hepatitis C.
“It’s very easy to get a gut infection by accidentally digesting faeces,” Corrigan said. “There are many types of harmful bacteria in faeces, which is why it’s essential to wash your hands.”
Corrigan said it was also essential to fast before any attempt at anal fisting. “It’s a good idea if you don’t eat at least four hours before, so there are no accidents and you don’t feel uncomfortable,” he said. “Some people douche to make it a cleaner and more pleasurable affair.”
As well as the risk of STIs, other potential side effects include pelvic inflammatory disease, bruising of the cervix, temporary faecal incontinence and a reduction in the elasticity of the sphincter muscles.
“Perforation of the bowel can occur,” Michael from Headquarters added. “If this happens you would feel a sharp pain and blood may appear on the glove. If this occurs you should stop straight away and see a doctor.”
Corrigan said there were other potential problems. “Clearly if it’s done too quickly or without care, problems include the tearing of the sphincter or rupturing the colon,” he said. “If you’re using drugs, beware that some will deaden the pain. So when you’re feeling any sharp pain, stop straight away because there may be a potential problem.”
