Risks of anal sex

90% of men who have sex with men and 5% of all women have anal sex. Anal sex is the entry of the penis into the anus.

What is anal sex?

According to statistics, 90% of men who have sex with men and 5% of all women have experienced anal sex. Anal sex is primarily defined as the entry of the penis into the anus. However, it is not limited to this. There are different forms of anal sex:

• Rimming: This involves licking the anus with the tongue. You can do this to someone else, or someone can do this to you.
• Fingering: Simply touching someone's anus with a finger. This can be done over and over again.
• Sex toys: Using toys at someone's anus, or when someone does this to you.

Symptoms of an STD of the Anus

Anal sex, like any form of sexual contact, carries the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Some symptoms that may indicate an STD are:

• Itching or burning sensation at the anus
• Warts around or in the anus
• Blisters or sores near the anus
• Pain during bowel movements
• Diarrhea
• Mucus or blood in the stool

STDs Transmitted Through Anal Sex.

The following STDs can be transmitted specifically through anal sex:

• Gonorrhea
• Herpes
• Genital warts
• Hepatitis B
• HIV
• Chlamydia

The Risk of an STD during Anal Sex

During sexual arousal, the anus does not become moist in the same way as a vagina. As a result, the anus often remains dry, which can lead to damage to the tissue inside. This minor damage can make it easier for a bacteria or virus to come in contact with the blood and thus infect the body. This makes the chances of contracting an STD, such as HIV, during anal sex 30 times greater than during vaginal sex. By the way, this increased risk applies not only to HIV, but also to other STDs.

Other risks of anal sex

Apart from the risk of contracting an STD, there are other physical risks associated with anal sex. For example, hemorrhoids (hemorrhoids) can develop: these are small bulges around or in the anus that can be painful and bleed easily. Being too rough or wild can even lead to a ruptured bowel, which can cause severe bleeding. If you lose a lot of blood and it does not stop, it is crucial to consult a doctor immediately.

How do you avoid an STD in your anus?

The best way to protect yourself from STDs is to use a condom. This significantly reduces the chances of contracting an STD.

If you have symptoms, or have had unprotected sex, don't hesitate to contact us and make an appointment at Onedayclinic. Results from a standard test are usually available within 2-3 business days, while a rapid test can provide results within 2 hours.

Better safe than sorry!