Sexual activities & the Risks

Anal penetrative sex

This is when the penis enters the anus. Although many people think it's something only gay men do, the statistics actually show that about the same number of heterosexual people have anal sex as gay people.

Due to that fact that the lining of the anus is thin and can easily be damaged, anal sex has a higher risk of spreading sexually transmitted infections (STI) than many other types of sexual activity. In particular, it carries a bigger than average risk of HIV transmission as well as genital warts, hepatitis A and hepatitis C.

Using condoms and water-based lubricants, such as KY Jelly, will help protect you against STI during anal sex. However, other lubricants, especially oil-based ones, may cause condoms to split, as can over-energetic thrusting. Specially toughened condoms designed for anal intercourse are available and may offer more protection.