…Neither of us have been sexually active with anybody else—is there any possible way something might happen?
Great question! In order to get an infection, a person has to come into contact with someone who is already infected. If neither of you have been sexually active before, it’s unlikely that an infection could have spread between you. However, in the future it’s a great idea to wear a condom anyway. Being in the habit of wearing a condom will make it easier to stay safe and healthy with future partners. It’s your health!
Because the anal tissues are very delicate, there is a small risk of anal fissures from this type of intercourse. For some health tips related to anal sex, check out this question.
Great question! Asking questions before engaging in sexual activity is the best way to make informed, safe and healthy decisions. As with many types of sexual activity, unprotected anal sex can transmit STIs if a partner is infected. Anal sex presents an increased risk of infection because the lining of the rectum is a thin membrane that can easily be torn or damaged during sex. Small tears (known as anal fissures) may occur during intercourse. Fissures can be fairly painful and slow to heal, and provide a direct route into the bloodstream–so you’re right to worry about sexually transmitted infections! Most anal fissures won’t cause permanent damage to the rectum, however.
Many doctors recommend exploring anal sex by using a lubricated finger first. Because the anus does not self-lubricate, it’s important to keep a bottle of water-based lubricant on hand; this will help prevent fissures and make the experience more pleasurable. When you begin having anal sex with a partner, be sure to wear a condom every time. The insertive partner can choose to wear male latex condoms, or the receptive partner can choose to wear a Reality Condom (also known as a female condom). Both are available for free at Teen Clinic. (Wear only one condom at a time, however!)
Remember: if you feel pain at any time during sex, slow down, communicate with your partner, and consider using more lubricant. And make an appointment at Teen Clinic if you ever experience any irregular bleeding or internal pain after intercourse.
The anus is part of the digestive tract. It is not connected to any reproductive organs, so if semen was ejaculated into the anus there is no chance of pregnancy. The only time pregnancy would be a risk during anal play is if semen got in or around the vagina. Since the anus and vaginal opening are very close together, there is a small risk of this happening.
Condoms and birth control methods can prevent pregnancy and STIs. While there is no risk for pregnancy during anal sex, it is very risky for STI transmission. Getting tested, using a condom and lube are very important and successful precautions for preventing STI transmission.
You could be at risk for pregnancy if sperm gets in or around the vagina. Since the anus is close to the vaginal opening, there is a small risk of sperm traveling close to the vagina, but it’s unlikely. However, unprotected anal sex is especially risky for contracting STIs. The tissue of the anus is fragile thus vulnerable to infection. The natural friction of sex can cause tearing, creating an opening into the blood stream. A condom with extra lubrication is an effective way to reduce the risk of STI transmission and prevent tearing. It’s important that you and a partner both get tested for STIs. For free STI testing, call Teen Clinic at 303.442.5160
We don’t like to use the words “right” and “wrong” when it comes to sexual activity, but it is important to think about whether its safe and healthy. Think about your personal boundaries when it comes to sex and talk with your partner about his or hers. Any type of sex should be comfortable, consensual and safe.
Because anal sex involves stimulation of the anus, there is a good chance of contact with waste products (poop). It’s a good idea for a partner receiving anal sex to take a trip to the toilet (and possibly a shower) before engaging in any sex. If the receiver has recently made a bowel movement and has a healthy digestive system (no diarrhea, constipation etc) only small amounts of waste products will remain in the anus & rectum. It is critical to thoroughly clean the penis afterwards, especially before engaging in vaginal intercourse or receiving oral sex. Remember – always use a condom and lots of water-based lube to ensure that the condom doesn’t tear. Anal sex is considered a high risk behavior for STI transmission.
Men and women engage in anal sex and it can be safe with proper condom use, lubrication, care and communication. Any types of sex requires consent, meaning all partners agree to have sex and to the type of sex. Remember – engaging in sexual activity is a personal choice and setting personal boundaries is super important!
Anal tissue is very different from vaginal tissue. The anus does not self-lubricate and it’s more prone to tiny tears and abrasions than the vaginal canal. Anal sex can put someone at a high risk for contracting STIs. This means it’s really important to use a condom and plenty of lubrication. Water or silicone based lubricant is best, because it won’t weaken a latex condom – avoid oil based lubricant like Vaseline and ltion. Good lubrication and latex condoms are available for free at Teen Clinic or for purchase at your local convenient store.
Communication is another really important aspect of any type of sex. Talk with a partner before sex about getting tested for STIs, acquiring the appropriate protection, what type of sex you’ll be having and your personal boundaries. Talk with a partner during sex to make sure that nobody is in pain or discomfort. talk with a partner after sex about your likes and dislikes. All this talking will help make the relationship happy, healthy and safe.
