DOCTORING YOUR DERRIERE: TIPS FOR A HEALTHY BUTT

Let's face facts: a lot of guys enjoy
anal sex. They don't necessarily do it every time they have sex, nor does every
guy end up on the receiving end of the deal, but it does happen. A lot. And
whether you're a power player or someone who just enjoys the occasional backdoor
action, it’s important to keep healthy.

Heck, even if
you're a total "no entry zone," you still need to make sure you're
taking care of things. So with that in mind, Gay.net consulted Dr. Robert Bolan
and nurse practitioner Elisa Clay of the Los Angeles Gay
and Lesbian Center for tips on keeping your buns of steel
in tip-top—ahem, bottom—shape.

1. Protect
yourself:
It’s important to stay safe. “Always protect yourself and your partner by
properly using a condom,” Dr. Bolan says. You’re not only preventing the
possibility of transmitting diseases, but feeling the latex slide in and out
can be a pleasurable experience.

2. Make
lube your BFF:
“Water-based lubrication is best and least likely to compromise the integrity
of condoms,” Clay says. “Frequent application and reapplication is
recommended.” Some lubes use nonoxynol-9, which is a spermicide that can
sometimes cause irritation for the receiver. Since you don't have to worry
about butt babies, use a lube without nonoxynol-9 and don't risk the itch.

3. Enemas are the enemy:
Frequent use of
store-bought enemas can irritate your colon and compromise its natural ability
to pass stool. Clean up the way nature intended, with regular bowel movements.
However, a product like Fleet Naturals, which is made for
regular elective cleansing can be used occasionally.

4. Food for thought:
Eating high-fiber foods (whole grains, leafy vegetables, etc.) and staying
hydrated throughout the day increases digestive health. “I would recommend
avoiding spicy foods if the butt is really sore or has cuts after receptive
anal sex,” Clay says.

5. Massage
away:
The buttocks have more flesh than other areas of the body, so ask your partner
to massage your glutes. “Anal massage may be healthy to perform with
lubrication for those who feel pain and tear during receptive sex,” Clay says.

6. Beware of love in the tub:
Having sex in a hot tub, pool, or the ocean increases risk for unprotected sex.
The water’s temperature or chlorine could damage condoms, wash away
lubrication, and irritate your anus.

7. Bust a
myth:
There are several things one can do to help prevent prostate cancer—a sensible
diet and lifestyle, low alcohol intake, taking vitamins—but taking it up the
rear isn’t one of them. “Anal sex provides no benefit [such as cancer
prevention] to the prostate,” Dr. Bolan says.

8. Visit
your M.D.:
“Regular rectal screening for gonorrhea and chlamydia is very important,” Clay
says. “Talk to your medical provider about when to screen for colon cancer.
They will assess you for any risk factors, which may require early screening.
If none are present, screening typically begins at age 50.”

9. Just
dance:
The right cardio exercise—whether it’s hiking, biking, or swimming—definitely
tones and trains your rear, but nothing’s more fun than dropping low and shaking
your ass on the dance floor.

SOURCE: GAY DOT NET