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May 19, 2005
Michael Lucas Uncensored: Dispelling a Shitty Myth
After the cascade of comments and questions about my douching entry, I decided to go to an expert, Dr. Frank Spinelli, a friend of mine and a renown physician here in New York City, to really get to the bottom of this issue. This is what he had to say:
Enemas like the ones that are commonly purchased in drug stores use the active ingredient of sodium and phosphate with a powerful laxative to cleanse the bowel. The proper use of the enema is to relieve constipation or as a bowel cleansing for surgery. Used correctly the enema can provide safe relief by inducing complete emptying of the left colon, usually within 1 to 5 minutes, without pain or spasm.
Gay men use enemas to cleanse their bowels before anal sex, however using more than one enema in 24 hours can be harmful. Listen! Enemas contain a powerful irritant that causes the release of stool. Prolonged use will cause the lining of the rectum to erode and slough off which can lead to bleeding and rectal discharge. Instead save the plastic device and use water to clean yourself out. It’s less harmful on the rectum and does the job just as well.
Overdosage or retention may lead to severe electrolyte disturbances, including high sodium, high phosphate, low calcium, and low potassium, as well as dehydration and low blood pressure. Treatment of electrolyte imbalance may require immediate medical intervention with appropriate electrolyte and fluid replacement.
Do not use laxative products when nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain is present unless directed by a physician. If you notice a sudden change in bowel habits that persists over a period of 2 weeks, consult a physician. Rectal bleeding or failure to have a bowel movement after use of a laxative may indicate a serious condition. Discontinue use and consult a physician. Laxative products should not be used longer than 1 week unless directed by a physician.
Here are answers to more specific questions on this topic:
1) How should I douche?
If you need to clean yourself out quickly use the enema as directed on the box. Bend over and insert the applicator in your anus and squeeze. Try to hold it in for at least one minute and then release the contents. If you don't feel clean enough, fill the bottle with warm tap water and repeat the process. This will ensure you get all those nasty nuggets out.2) Would you recommend a Fleet Ready-To-Use Enema or a reusable enema?
Fleet Ready-To-Use is a great product, but you should not abuse using it. A reusable enema with warm tap water is safer and you can use it multiple times.3) What water temperature would you suggest for a reusable?
Warm tap water, not hot. You don't want to scald yourself. The only thing worse than a dirty ass is one that has blisters on it.4) What are thoughts on hoses attached to showers? Are those better?
Well now we're talking professional bottoms here. Yes, the hose attachment works well but too much pressure coming from your shower could produce enough water to blow out your ass, so be careful.5) Is it true or is it a myth that enemas strip you of important nutrients?
Absolutely true. Overuse can be detrimental.6) Should you drink more water if you cleanse on a regular basis?
Definitely. Enemas can dehydrate you. I suggest drinking something with electrolytes in it like Gatorade.Dr. Frank Spinelli is a board certified internist who practices in New York City. He specializes in HIV medicine and can be heard doing speaking engagements on sexually transmitted diseases and HIV prevention. Currently Dr. Spinelli is a contributing writer for Genre Magazine where he writes about Gay Men's Health.
Posted by Michael at May 19, 2005 12:29 PM
Comments
Thank you, Michael, for doing a follow-up on this issue! I had read your initial entry about douching and was wondering if you'd heard about the cautions re: too many enemas. Thanks for asking Dr. Spinelli to weigh in on the issue. I generally douche when I know I'm going to get fucked, but I've been worried about the whole "enema addiction" thing. Again, thanks!
Posted by: Matt at May 21, 2005 09:10 PM