Butt really, do you need probiotics for your anus?
As seen in Body & Soul, December 2021
The topic of anal probiotics has been doing the rounds online, so we wanted to figure out if they’re actually necessary.
2021 has been the year of making things ‘cheugy’ – skinny jeans, side parts and apparently now blonde hair are all out of vogue. Anal sex however, has done the opposite and is experiencing somewhat of a revival in popular culture.
There is a lot of preparation involved in this sex act, and the online world has recently subscribed to the notion that the ‘anal microbiome’ - yes, it has one too – must be protected during the process. Hence the need for anal probiotics.
So – is this supplement really necessary if you intend to partake in this sexual activity, or is it all a load of BS? We asked Dr Jessica Wade, an indigenous doctor with a passion for sexual empowerment to clear it up for us.
Firstly, what is an anal microbiome?
“The ‘anal microbiome’ is a natural group of bacteria that live in harmony within the anus,” she tells Body+Soul.
“You may have heard of the gut microbiome, well the anal microbiome is similar to that. We all have microbiomes that are unique to us and help to keep in balance and maintain healthy tissue and function of the area.”
What disrupts the anal microbiome?
Dr Wade explains that a lot of the activities that can be involved in anal sex can could impact the delicate balance of bacteria.
“Anal sex, including rimming (using tongue), insertion of fingers, penis, sex toys has the potential to disrupt the natural microbiota on the anus,” she says.
“Some studies show that common ‘douching’ or ‘emptying’ preparations, some lubricants (especially flavoured, toxic) can disrupt the balance and healthy equilibrium of the microbiota.”
However, she adds that there are conflicting studies in this area and further research is needed to “determine the extent of anal play and the impact to the anal microbiota.” What happens when our anal microbiome is compromised?
“This has the potential to lead to poor tissue and epithelial health putting you at greater risk of localised damage, fissures, abscesses and certain infections.”
Is it different to our vagina?
All this talk about anal sex and the anal microbiome had us wondering – why concentrate on this when the vagina also has a microbiome that can be affected by sexual activities?
While it’s true that both have microbiomes that could be impacted, the type of microbiome is not the same in each.
“The vaginal and anal microbiota are VERY different, they both consistent of different bacterial strains and immune cells,” explains Dr Wade. “Your sexual health directly impacts your overall health and it is important to be aware of the microbiomes to promote a healthy and pleasurable sex-life.”
Do we need butt probiotics?
“I feel there is not enough research to support their use,” Dr Wade explains. There is also no reason to avoid anal sex if it’s something you’re into with a consenting adult.
“Anal play is a magical sexual experience of complete surrender and pleasure…Opening yourself up to receive anal sex with complete trust and surrender is a true act of intimacy and anal orgasm is mind blowing amazing,” she adds.
Her tips for healthy anal play?
Ensure complete relaxation: the anal area is highly muscular and can tense and cause pain and potential fissures. Licking, massage and ALL the lubrication (Dr Wade uses organic non-scented, non-toxic lubricant) can help relax and prevent tearing and pain.
STI: always make sure STI and HIV status has been spoken about before sexual experiences. This is an essential part of consent.
Be open: speak up to your partner/partners about what turns you on and what turns you off
Dr Jessica Wade is an indigenous doctor in Australia with a passion for sexual wellness and empowerment. Follow her on Instagram here.
