by: B.J. Caldwell, Educator
The International Rectal Microbicide Advocates (IRMA) call for more research into lube safety -- especially ones used during anal intercourse. According to the
IRMA:
Very few studies have examined the effect of lubes on human rectal tissue, but those that did showed mixed results. Most water-based lubes tested in these studies were shown to be damaging to rectal tissue. However, some lubes were more damaging than others. Furthermore, in one study the use of lube for anal intercourse was associated with the presence of rectal sexually transmitted infections.
What they found in their
review (sampling data on lube use was obtained from gay and bi men in our region):
- more research is urgently needed to explore if there is a link between lube use and acquiring HIV and/or rectal STIs
-It is unclear whether any particular type or brand of lube might increase, decrease, or have no effect on acquiring HIV/STIs
-Using male/female condoms is still considered the BEST way to prevent acquiring STIs during anal intercourse. In addition, the use of condom-compatible lubes has been associated with a decreased risk of condoms breaking or slipping.
-It isn't yet possible at this time to recommend for or against lubes if having anal intercourse without condoms.
-Lube use on its own is not a proven method of HIV or STI prevention
So what does this mean?
It means that attention is being drawn to the widespread use of lubricants during intercourse and their effects on the sensitive tissue (mucous membranes) of the genital tract. We have been using lube for a long time and yet there has been little research in the area of lube safety when used rectally. If a lube (or anything, really) causes damage to the sensitive tissue of the genital tract, it can increase the vulnerability of the person to STIs and HIV should they be subsequently exposed
Every lube has a different chemical make-up and needs to be tested individually and then tested against each other.
If using latex condoms, you must still use water-based lubricants to prevent damaging the condom
If you are having condomless sex, some lubes may be better than others. (but we don't yet know which ones)
But there is no data yet on specific lubes.......hence the IRMAs call for an increase in research. Our society seems to hold anything related to the rectum as taboo....and that can have an effect on the ability to get and maintain funding. We also seem to have this notion that queers are the only people to have anal sex.....which is definitely not true! (In absolute numbers, there are more woman engaging in anal sex than there are gay men.
Posted on
Wed, October 20, 2010
by B.J. Caldwell
filed under