Today is International Fisting Day! To celebrate, we are going to have a look at what fisting is and why we have an international day dedicated to it. Fisting has gotten a bad rap over the years for being a dangerous sex act, but below we will suggest some ways to prevent injury whilst fisting so that everyone involved can have fun and feel safe.
What is Fisting?
The term fisting is used for both anal and vaginal fisting and refers to the sexual act of inserting most or all of the hand into the vagina or anus. The term is a little misleading as the hand isn’t always used in the shape of a fist, but usually more of a beak-like shape with the fingers stretched outwards rather than balled up. Fisting has been enjoyed in bedrooms and beyond for a long time now, with anal fisting being documented back in the 1700s.
International Fisting Day
This year will be the fifth annual International Fisting Day, celebrated by lovers of the sex act all over the world. The day was created in response to the idea of fisting as a dangerous sexual activity that has legal frameworks in some countries preventing it from being shown in pornography. Some scholars who have explored why this is the case have suggested that it may be due to fisting being considered an “unruly sex act” which goes beyond what bodies are supposed to do (and have inserted into them). They also suggest that vaginal fisting is not shown in pornography as it can be a female-focused act—popular within lesbian porn—which may threaten the centricity of men in mainstream porn.
Is Fisting Safe?
Like other sexual activities such as erotic asphyxiation, fisting can be enjoyed safely so long as those participating are informed of the dangers and how to reduce the risk of harm. Arguably one of the most dangerous parts of fisting is the lack of depiction and visibility in pornography and other media. As a result of this, those interested in trying fisting cannot view it being carried out professionally to learn about techniques and to understand the necessary precautions so as to make sure that they are participating in the sex act safely.
With that said, there are safety precautions you should be aware of before trying fisting with a partner. Scratching or too much thrusting in the vagina can be dangerous, and communication is important to make sure you stop if the person receiving is experiencing discomfort. Both vaginal and anal fisting should not be experimented with while under the influence of drugs or alcohol and you should seek medical attention immediately if there is heavy bleeding.
Some of the fear surrounding vaginal fisting is due to the myth that fisting will stretch out the receiver's vagina and this is definitely not the case as vaginal muscles are elastic and will not become loose from being penetrated. As long as you go slowly, use plenty of lube, and communicate well, fisting can be a safe and pleasurable sex act.
Safety Tips for Fisting:
Preparation
Both anal and vaginal fisting take time and preparation and you may not be able to fit a fist in on your first try. Sex toys such as butt plugs and inflatable toys are good for training, to help you get used to the sensation. For anal fisting, preparation can include douching to help with feeling comfortable and reducing cleanup.
Protection and Lube
Hand hygiene is extremely important when it comes to fisting. If you are going to fist someone, you should make sure your nails are short, neat, and clean. Latex gloves are recommended for extra protection as they decrease the likelihood of a caught hangnail and reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections. You should also ensure that all jewellery is removed from the hands and wrists before you begin.
The anus does not produce a natural lubricant, so make sure you are stocked up. Water-based lube is best for use with fisting gloves. Lube is also recommended for vaginal fisting to increase comfort and reduce the risk of pain or rupture.
Warm Up
The more relaxed the person being fisted is, the easier it’ll be to insert your hand. Have some fun building arousal before getting started. Having an orgasm before vaginal fisting has been said to relax pelvic floor muscles and make it easier to insert a hand.
Start slow
Start slow and small. If you are the one being fisted, don’t push yourself—especially if you are uncomfortable. You can start with a couple of fingers first and slowly add more if and when you are ready. Gradually, if the receiver wants to, you can insert the pinky and thumb as well and move your hand deeper into the vagina or anus. Again, you may not be able to fit the whole hand the first time around—and that is okay!
Check In
Everyone should be communicating throughout the whole process. Listen to your body and to what feels comfortable, and if you are the one fisting, listen to your partner and pay attention to any physical cues that might signal discomfort. Talk to each other about what feels good and doesn’t feel good and always add more lube when needed. Anal and vaginal fisting should not be painful, so be sure to stop if it starts to hurt.
Aftercare
It can be painful if the hand is pulled out too quickly, so make sure to pull out slowly! Watch for any signs of bleeding. Following safety tips should prevent harm or pain but keep aware of any bleeding. Light spotting can be normal, but anything more—or if spotting occurs a few days afterwards—you should seek medical attention.
Afterward, make sure to clean bodily fluids and lube off of any toys, sheets, and towels used. Check in and talk about the experience with each other. Fisting can be a vulnerable experience, and due to its often negative representation, can bring up many emotions. Hold your partner and reflect on how it went, sharing what you liked and disliked, and if there is anything you would like to do differently next time.
Following these tips is the best way to prevent injury while fisting so that you can have fun safely if you choose to celebrate this International Fisting Day!
Written by Erin Ireland.
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