Back to the topic....
Many anal lubes include a bit of lidocaine or a similar compound that is a topical anesthetic. When I first started experimenting with anal sex, I thought that sounded like something undesirable -- I wanted to feel everything, and the idea of using anything that might numb me or my partner sounded counterproductive. Well, I was wrong. When we first started using "real" anal lube with lidocaine, I found that the whole experience was more fun. He could get me ready faster, my anus relaxed more easily and more quickly, and neither of us had any sensations of numbness. We could just enjoy the intense experiences of anal sex without as much worry or hassle. Sometimes (using non-anal lubes) it would hurt when he first tried to press into me.... with anal lube, I never feel that anymore. Part of it may be experience -- we both have a much better idea of what to expect, and know better when I am ready for him -- but I also think that anal lube (with lidocaine or whatever) takes just enough of the edge off any discomfort at the first major stretching that penetration takes. Anyway, as you can see, I am totally sold on anal lube.
And anal sex.... I really enjoy it now.