Fisting Happiness and Hygiene

Dear Rachel and Claire,

I've been in a real lesbian relationship for one year now. I love fisting but I still feel a bit misinformed. I've had a few nagging bacterial infections plus I have to pee a lot more. Do you have any tricks to this trade?

Thanks,
Handy-dandy

A:

Dear Handy,

A hand in the bush can indeed cause the kinds of irritations you mention. Bacterial infections are avoidable. You know what Mom said-- "Wash your hands before you eat." Same principle of hygiene. Have your partner wash her hands with anti-bacterial soap before plunging in. Whether you are experiencing vaginal or urinary tract infections, this should help.

As for the peeing issue, I have a few theories. Fisting does put extra pressure on the para-urethral sponge (the g-spot) which surrounds the urinary tract. Plenty of straight and bi-girls who use diaphragms find that the diaphragm ring puts uncomfortable pressure on the urethra (the tube carrying the urine to the outside world), causing increased urination and a tendency towards urinary tract infections (UTIs). Similarly a nice big fist filling the vagina can also irritate the urethra, creating the sensation of needing to pee more. It could be that the same bacteria which is infiltrating your vaginal flora is sneaking into your urethra and causing a UTI--making you need to pee more.

And finally, your pc muscles, the sling of muscles holding your sexual organs in place, may be stretching a bit to make room for the said hand, and in so doing falling down on it's job of helping to control your bladder. What's a hand happy girl to do? Kegel excercises. Practice squeezing the muscles you use to stop the flow of urine (check out Tristan Taormino's The Ultimate Guide To Anal Sex For Women, chpt 2 ). Start off with a small number of repetitions a few times a day, and gradually increase the number. Practice with quick and longer contractions. Many women who are UTI prone find that the herb Uva Ursi, which supports a healthy urinary tract, is not only helpful in treating UTI's but is an effective preventive measure as well. Talk to your local herbalist about whether the herb is right for you. Also, urinate before and after every fisting to help rid your body of bacteria in your urinary tract... And give yourself a hand!