How Critical is Anal Lube?

If you have ever gotten some back door action (giving or receiving, nobody is here to judge!), you know how critical anal lube can be in ensuring that everyone has a good time. Because the anal cavity is not one of the self lubricating orifices of the body (like the mouth or vagina), anal lube is a key ingredient to just about any anal encounter. That said, sometimes the anus can feel deceivingly wet, leading both parties to think that no anal lube is necessary. In fact, that wetness the two of you are feeling is a combination of natural, bacteria laden mucus and sweat. Essentially, this can be a recipe for disaster. If no anal lube is added to the mixture, in addition to discomfort, small tears will result that can be tiny portals to disease and infection. Anal lube can help circumvent these potential disasters. There are hundreds of different kinds of anal lube available on the market today, ranging from jellies to gels to sprays. Additionally, there are some warming anal lubes that can either increase the pleasure or end all play immediately, depending on what it is that you are into. Out of everything, the only types of anal lube that are not recommended are those with an oil base. This is because the oil can leave behind a coating on the rectum that can lead to a number of infections. Anal lubes that have an oil base can also break down latex condoms, leaving them prone to breakage issues. Oil based anal lubes can also break down latex gloves and contraceptives like diaphragms and cervical caps, reducing their levels of effectiveness. Basically, there are a slew of anal lubes out there; so avoiding the ones with an oil base should not be too much of an inconvenience for both parties. In the past, anal lubes with a water base were all the rage. These days, however, new silicone based anal lubes are gaining popularity. Anal lubes of this ilk are much longer lasting than water based lubricants, and they do not have any adverse effects on condoms or other sex toys available. Before trying any new brand of anal lube, however, it is important that both you and your partner do a spot test. This consists of rubbing a small amount on the inside of your arm to make sure that you are not allergic to the substance.