Anal Sex
AIDS Resource
during anal sex. HIV can be found in the blood, semen, pre-seminal
fluid (pre-cum), or vaginal fluid of a person infected with the
virus. In general, the person receiving the semen is at greater risk
of getting HIV because the lining of the rectum is thin and may
allow the virus to enter the body during anal sex. However, a person
who inserts his penis into an infected partner also is at risk
because HIV can enter through the urethra (the opening at the tip of
the penis) or through small cuts, abrasions, or open sores on the
penis.
Remember, in order for one partner to become infected, the other
partner must already be infected with HIV. It is not an act or
behavior that causes HIV, it is a virus transmitted through blood,
semen, pre-seminal fluids (pre-cum), and vaginal fluids.
Having unprotected (without a condom) anal sex is considered to be a
very risky behavior. When you choose to have anal sex, you should
always use a latex condom.
In order to be effective, condoms must be used correctly every time.
Use a condom every single time you have sex (oral, vaginal and
anal). Latex serves as a barrier to the virus. "Lambskin"
or "Natural membrane" condoms are not as effective because of the
pores in the material. Look for the word "latex" on the package.
As soon as the penis becomes erect, put a condom on it.
Leave a small space in the tip of the condom to catch the cum or use
a condom with a reservoir tip. Remove any air that remains in the
tip by gently pressing toward the base of the penis.
When you use a lubricant, check the label to make sure it is water-
based. DO NOT use Vaseline, cold cream, baby oil or other lubricants
such as cooking oil or shortening. These weaken the latex condom
and can cause it to break.
If you feel the condom break while you are having sex, stop
immediately and pull out. Do not continue until you have put on a
new condom.
After ejaculation, withdraw while the penis is still erect, holding
on to the rim of the condom while pulling out so that it doesn't
come off.
Never use a condom more than once.
Don't use a condom that is brittle or that has been stored near heat
or in your wallet or glove compartment for a long time.
Check the expiration date on the package.
A condom won't do you any good if you don't have one when you need
it.
Many AIDS Service Organizations will give you condoms for free.
Call your local AIDS organization to find out where you can get free
condoms.
If you have any questions about HIV/AIDS, condoms or HIV testing,
you can call our office 570-322-8448 Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00
PM.
Free HIV testing is available in our Williamsport office during
regular business hours or at other times by appointment. Call us
(570) 322-8448 for more information.
Some of the information above was re-printed with permission from
www.stophiv.com.