Dear anonymous,

As long as you’re relaxed and enjoying it. Hemorrhoids are painful swollen veins in the anal area and can result from excess pressure around your anus – when you’re constipated and straining to go to the bathroom.

But when you use a good lubricant and the penetration feels comfortable – not forced – there’s no risk of anal sex causing hemorrhoids.

Some sex researchers believe anal play may actually prevent hemorrhoids.

It increases the strength and flexibility of the skin and muscles so that the anus is better able to respond to pressure, rather than bulging and producing hemorrhoids.