Advertisement
Professionals >> Visit The Body PRO
The Body: The Complete HIV/AIDS Resource
Sign up for free e-mail updates!The Body en Espanol
Please Note: Due to volume considerations, not all questions can be answered. Questions most likely to be answered will be those of general interest to a broad group of visitors to this forum. Questions pertaining to a specific case; requests for diagnosis, medical advice, or second opinion; or requests for opinions about untested alternative therapies will generally not be answered.

Ask the Experts about Safe Sex and HIV Prevention
  • E-mail E-Mail
  • Glossary Glossary
Recent AnswersAsk a Question

 

anal sex?
Jun 27, 2001

is anal sex safe for male's and female's? what problem's may it produce?

Advertisement
   Response from Mr. Kull

It really depends on what you mean by "safe." If you are talking about HIV, anal sex without condoms can be an efficient way to transmit the virus (regardless of your sex, male or female). Anal sex can also be a risk for certain sexually transmitted diseases and some bacterial infections if either person has a current infection and doesn't take certain precautions. A latex condom is a great way to prevent yourself from getting some of these infections when having anal sex.

The anus and rectum are more likely to transmit bacteria -- especially STD related -- than the vagina. Feces coming into contact with the urethra (the tube you pee out of) puts you or your partner at risk for urinary tract infections (UTIs). Women are at greater risk for UTIs than men because their urethra is shorter, giving bacteria better access to the bladder. The penis should not come into contact with the vagina after anal sex unless a new condom is worn or the penis is cleaned with soap and water.

Use a water-based lubricant, preferably without nonoxyonl-9, a spermicide that may cause irritation to mucous membranes and possibly increases the risk of HIV transmission. You cannot have too much lubricant, as the anus and rectum do not have the natural lubrication and elasticity of the vagina. Ample lubrication helps prevent tearing and allows the penis to move smoothly, minimizing pain.

Stop having anal sex if there is any bleeding, and see a doctor if bleeding continues. Take a break from it if you feel irritation or develop hemorrhoids. Most importantly, take your time and listen to yourself and your partner: stop having anal sex if either person feels too uncomfortable.

Anal sex can be a great and adventurous alternative to vaginal sex, especially for people who don't have a vagina! However, since it is an activity that is considered taboo by many cultures, watch out for some negative emotional/psychological responses as well. There are some myths running around out there that anal sex "causes" HIV or other infections. A person can transmit an infection ONLY if they are infected; anal sex does not create infections out of thin air. See the posting entitled "...Does anal sex "make" the virus?" (http://thebody.com/sowadsky/faqs/faq1.html#makeHIV).

RMK



Want to read more questions and answers on this subject? Our experts have answered many similar questions!



Terms of Use
Please remember that this forum is designed for educational purposes only, and experts are not engaged through this forum in rendering legal or medical advice or professional services. Experts appearing on this page are independent and are solely responsible for editing and fact-checking their material. Neither The Body nor any sponsor is the publisher or speaker of posted visitors' questions or the experts' material.

Questions and messages posted to this forum are not statements of advice, opinion, or information of The Body, Body Health Resources Corporation or any sponsor of this forum. While neither The Body nor Body Health Resources Corporation regularly reviews posted content, we reserve the right to delete, move, or edit postings if we deem it appropriate under the circumstances. Visitors submitting questions remain solely responsible for the content of their messages.

Information provided by experts is general only and should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease, or relied upon as legal or other professional advice. This information is not a substitute for professional advice or care. If you have or suspect you may have a health or legal problem, you should consult your own health care provider or your attorney.

Copyright notice.

Advertisement