Anal Sex Popularity: 7 Countries Where Anal Sex is Popular
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Anal Sex Popularity by Country: Where Is It Most Practised?
Anal sex is no longer a shadowy subject whispered about behind closed doors. Over the last two decades, it has moved from taboo to mainstream—so much so that surveys show millions of heterosexual couples now enjoy anal play as part of their sexual routine.
From porn searches to bedroom confessions, the numbers don’t lie: anal sex is becoming part of everyday sexuality worldwide. But the big question remains: where in the world is anal sex most popular, and why?
How Many People Are Trying Anal Sex?
For a long time, anal sex was associated almost exclusively with gay men. Today, research shows that straight couples are experimenting more than ever, driven by curiosity, porn influence, and shifting sexual norms.
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United States: The CDC’s National Survey of Family Growth found that 36% of women and 42% of men aged 18–44 have had anal sex at least once.
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United Kingdom: The NATSAL survey shows a rise from 12.5% in the 1990s to 28.5% today among 16–24-year-olds.
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Ethiopia: Only 8.9% of young people report having ever tried it, according to F1000Research.
💡 Did you know? Globally, about 40% of adults say they’ve tried anal sex at least once, while 10–20% engage in it regularly (Wikipedia).
If you’re curious yourself, start with our beginner’s guide to preparing for anal sex for tips on lube, hygiene, and mindset.
The Countries With the Highest Prevalence of Anal Sex
| Rank | Country / Region | % Reporting Ever Having Anal Sex | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States | 36% of women, 42% of men (18–44) | CDC – NSFG |
| 2 | United Kingdom | 28.5% of 16–24-year-olds | The Guardian / NATSAL |
| 3 | Kenya | 25% of men, 21% of women (last 3 months) | Source |
| 4 | South Africa | 5–20% of women; 10–15% of men (urban samples) | Reproductive Health Journal |
| 5 | Ethiopia | 8.9% of young people (meta-analysis) | F1000Research |
| 6 | Global Estimate | ~40% tried once; 10–20% regular | Wikipedia |
Anal Sex Frequency
How often do people do it?
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In the U.S., around 10–14% of women aged 18–39 reported having anal sex in the past 90 days (CDC).
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A study in Australia showed that while nearly 1 in 5 women had tried anal sex, only a fraction reported doing it regularly.
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Globally, experts estimate that only 10–20% of couples include anal sex as part of their regular sex life (Wikipedia).
Age Anal Sex Begins
According to the CDC:
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The median age for first anal sex among U.S. women is 18 years.
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For men, it’s slightly later, averaging 19 years.
This shows that experimentation often begins around the same time as vaginal intercourse.
Anal Sex Frequency (Women)
Women tend to report lower rates of regular anal sex compared to men:
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Only 7–10% of U.S. women say they had anal sex in the past 12 months (CDC).
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In the U.K., the NATSAL study found that while nearly 1 in 3 young women have tried anal sex, far fewer make it part of their ongoing routine.
Anal Sex Frequency (Men)
Men typically report higher prevalence and frequency:
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About 15% of U.S. men report anal sex in the past year, compared to 10% of women (CDC).
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In Kenya, 25% of men said they engaged in anal sex in the past three months, compared to 21% of women (Reproductive Health Journal).
STI Risks and Safety
Anal sex carries a higher risk of HIV and STI transmission compared to vaginal sex because rectal tissue is delicate.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) states that receptive anal sex is the highest-risk sexual behavior for HIV transmission.
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UNFPA recommends always using condoms and plenty of lube.
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Getting tested regularly and discussing STD testing openly with partners is critical. See: The STD Talk – How to Approach the Conversation About Testing.
Where Anal Sex Is Illegal
Despite growing global acceptance, anal sex is still criminalized in many countries:
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In Africa, nations like Nigeria, Uganda, and Sudan outlaw anal sex, often under “sodomy” or “unnatural acts” laws (Human Rights Watch).
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In the Middle East, countries such as Saudi Arabia and Iran punish anal sex with imprisonment or even death.
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By contrast, South Africa stands out as the only African nation to legalize same-sex marriage and openly protect LGBTQ rights.
💡 Did you know? As of 2025, more than 65 countries worldwide still criminalize consensual same-sex acts (ILGA World Report).
FAQs About Anal Sex
Q: Does anal sex feel good for women?
A: Many women report pleasure, especially when combined with clitoral or vaginal stimulation.
Q: Which lube is best?
A: Water-based or silicone lube. Avoid oil-based products, as they can break condoms.
Q: Is anal sex common in Africa?
A: Yes. Studies in Kenya and South Africa show measurable prevalence, though it remains taboo socially.
Q: How can beginners make it comfortable?
A: Patience, relaxation, communication, and lube are essential. Start with fingers or toys before penetration.
The Bottom Line
Anal sex is not a fad—it’s a global sexual practice steadily growing in acceptance. Countries like the U.S., U.K., and Australia lead the charts, while nations like South Africa and Kenya prove that curiosity exists even in conservative regions.
If you’re new to it, educate yourself, take it slow, and explore safely. Visit Erotic Africa for more guides on sexuality, pleasure, and modern intimacy.
Have you noticed changing attitudes toward anal sex in your country? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
Whether you love it, hate it, or are still curious, one fact is undeniable: anal sex is here to stay—and it’s far more common than most people think.
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