Healthier Scotland. Scottish Government

Anal Sex

Why is anal sex a high-risk activity?

Anal sex is a high-risk activity because bacteria and viruses from an infected partner can easily enter the blood stream during intercourse.

Being the receiver of anal sex carries the greatest danger of infection, though it is still very risky for both partners.

Although using a condom reduces these risks, if it breaks it's easy for any infection to pass between sexual partners.

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What are the risks from anal sex?

Many sexual infections, including HIV, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, Hepatitis B and C and Chlamydia can be present in semen and inside the anus. Herpes sores and genital warts can form inside the anus where they might not be noticed.

Visit the clinic to read more about these sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Because the anus is not so well lubricated as the mouth or vagina, the skin there can break during sex. This can allow infected semen directly into the blood stream.

The delicate skin around the head of the penis can also break during sex and allow infection from the anus into the blood stream.

This is why, for anal sex, it's important to use lots of water-based lubrication as well as condoms.

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Reducing the risks from anal sex

To reduce risks from anal sex:

• always use a condom
• use lots of condom-safe lubrication
• always use a dam or cut up condom to kiss or lick someone's anus
• change condoms before switching to oral or vaginal sex
• use a fresh condom if sharing anal toys
• wash hands thoroughly before touching the face or genitals

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Safer sex alternatives to anal sex

There are plenty of ways to have safer sex.

Oral sex or vaginal sex with a condom and masturbation are all less risky.

Find out more about safer sex alternatives.

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