 |
When discussing anal sex the first thing
that most people talk about is safety - and they should. In
fact, unprotected anal sex is the riskiest sexual behavior
there is. The anus is a very delicate area and the skin there
can tear easily. Bodily fluids, including blood, saliva and
semen, can easily enter the body through a cut in the anus,
increasing the risk of HIV. While most people are aware of the
high risk of contracting HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B and C
through anal sex, most don’t know that you can contract any
number of STI’s through this behavior including herpes,
gonorreah, HPV and even chlamydia. That’s why it is
important to protect yourself whenever you engage in any type
of anal sex. Anal sex can include manual (fisting), oral
(rimming) and genital penetration. When performing any of
these sexual activities it is important to take precautions.
When fisting, it is important to use a latex glove (and lots
of lube). Gloves protect both the hand and the anus from small
cuts, abrasions and open sores. While the risk of contracting
HIV through oral-anal contact is low, rimming is safest when
performed through some type of barrier including a dental dam,
a condom cut open lengthwise or even plastic wrap. While
fisting and rimming should not be done without taking
precautions, it is essential to protect yourself during
anal-genital intercourse. The ONLY way to have safe
anal-genital sex is with a condom.
|
