Experts have been warning of the dangers of a grim act known as 'boofing', which, if you don't know what it is, I can only apologise for what you're about to learn.
The X-rated slang term had a boom in popular culture back in 2018 after it became a key point highlighted in the Senate confirmation hearing for now-Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh.
Kavanaugh was quizzed on 'boofing' after the term featured in a line in his 1983 yearbook, and while being questioned about accusations of sexual misconduct and alcohol use, he was asked to define it.
Now, Kavanaugh said it was simply a silly term to refer to 'flatulence', but a quick Google search of the word paints a very different picture.
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And it's safe to say, it's not very PG.
What is boofing?
According to Recovered, Boofing is a slang term for the act of administering substances such as medication or recreational drugs into the rectum so they can be absorbed into the body through the rectal lining.
The method is also known as booty bumps, plugging, and, if combined with alcohol, butt chugging. Medically speaking, it's called trans-rectal abuse.
While it sounds pretty eye-wincing just to think about, it is actually touted as a harm reduction method for drug users, but we'll get on to why that is in a sec.
How does boofing work, and why do people do it?
Boofing works by inserting said substance - such as cocaine, MDMA or meth - into the anus, or by rubbing it around the outside (I'm so sorry).
Because the skin is so thin in this area, the drugs are quickly absorbed through the mucous membranes of the anus and into the bloodstream.
It all happens very quickly and 'almost immediately' hits the brain, having initially bypassed both the stomach and liver.
To put it simply, some people opt to 'boof' because they feel the effects of the drugs quicker this way and get more of an instant 'hit' compared with other methods of administration.
Sometimes, people will boof as a way of making anal sex feel more pleasurable, with drugs inserted using lube or toys.
Why is boofing considered a harm reduction method?
Boofing is sometimes suggested as a harm reduction method of taking drugs because it can help avoid vascular damage, skin abscesses and track marks.
It also avoids the nasal damage that can occur from snorting drugs and the lung damage from smoking them. But that doesn't mean it's without its risks.
What are the dangers of boofing?
On top of the usual risks of abusing substances, boofing itself comes with some dangers.
Firstly, boofing can irritate and damage the lining of the anus, which can not only cause pain but also lead to infections.
Boofing can also cause small tears around the anus, giving a way for viruses like HIV, hepatitis C and A, and STIs such as chlamydia to enter the body.
Plus, those who share their boofing equipment are also putting themselves at risk of transmitting illnesses to each other.
Also, because boofing gives users such a quick hit, there's a big risk of overdosing - especially since the drugs have entered the body directly through the bloodstream.
Basically, no way of taking drugs is safe, and boofing is definitely not without some serious risks.
If you want friendly, confidential advice about drugs, you can talk to FRANK. You can call 0300 123 6600, text 82111 or contact through their website 24/7, or livechat from 2pm-6pm any day of the week
Topics: Health
Chloe Jackson