Anal sex and HIV

The act of anal sex is not contained to gay intercourse, and a great majority of heterosexual couples also practice it. This practice like any, where body fluid is transmitted, can cause the virus to be transmitted.

Either partner can contract the virus

Both partners in anal sex - the passive and active partner - are at risk to contract the HIV virus. The virus is found in blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid (cum), or vaginal fluid of an infected person.

The risk will increase if your partner has any others sexually transmitted diseases.

For the passive partner

• The virus can be transmitted through the thin lining of the rectum, and since you will be the recipient of semen, the virus would find it easy to enter your system.

For the active partner

• If you are inserting your penis into an infected partner you could also contract the disease as it could enter your system through the urethra opening at the tip of your penis, or if cuts, abrasions or sores, never mind how small, are present on the penis.

Protecting yourself during anal sex

• Use a condom when having anal sex - unprotected intercourse is not clever.
• Even with protection, having this type of intercourse is considered high risk.
• Use latex condoms - but note - condoms are more likely to break during this type of intercourse than during vaginal intercourse.
• Do not use a petroleum based lubricant - a water-based lubricant will reduce chances of the condom breaking