Safer anal sex

Unprotected anal sex is a high-risk activity for transmitting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. However, there are many things that you can do to make it safer.

1. Get tested.  Some sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea are very easily transmitted through anal sex. Also, having one sexually transmitted infection does increase your risk of infection if, for example, the condom breaks.

2. If you prefer to douche before-hand (voiding the bowels of debris before engaging in anal-sex), it should be done one hour or more before you engage in anal sex.  This is because the lining of the anal cavity has essential linings that can disintegrate during douching and increase HIV tranmission.

3.  Use a condom and plenty of water-based lubricants. These can be found at AIDS PEI free of charge.  This will reduce the risk of HIV transmission and the chances of the condom breaking.

4. Avoid using saliva or petroleum-based products for lubricants. These can either cause the condom to disintegrate or to tear, increasing your risk of infection.

5. If you put the condom on upside down, don’t use it. You can transmit sexually transmitted infections via pre-ejaculatory fluid (pre-cum).

Anal sex can be enjoyable and safe at the same time.  Make sure you talk to your partner.