Anal sex has historically been taboo in many cultures. However, numerous studies show that the practice of anal sex is on the rise. Why has there been a rise in this risky alternate sexual practice? We live in a sexualized culture which teaches that sexual experimentation is one of the best ways to achieve sexual satisfaction. Dr. Debby Herbenick argues in her book, Good in Bed Guide to Anal Pleasuring, that anal sex “is a way to explore and act out new fantasies with [your] lover. However, this common justification of anal sex is faulty and superficial because it is very damaging to your health and quite possibly life threatening.
Let’s check out a few of the major risks...
General health risks:
- Unlike the vagina, the tissues of the anus are not stretchy. This means that the anus can easily tear, which puts the receiving partner in danger of anal abscesses, hemorrhoids, or fissures (a very large tear).
- Anal sex can weaken your muscles down there, which makes it hard to hold feces.
- The anus is full of bacteria. Consequently, the giving partner is especially prone to infections.
- You cannot get pregnant from the act alone. However, semen could still leak into the vagina and impregnate the woman.
- The fragile nature of the anal tissue makes it easier for STDs to enter into the bloodstream.
- Unprotected anal sex is one of the primary ways in which HIV is spread. If you don’t already know, HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) can eventually lead to AIDS!
- Recent studies have linked anal sex to anal cancer. HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is closely associated with anal cancer, which is frequently spread through anal sex.
- The use of a latex condom certainly lowers the chances of contracting an STD. However, even perfect condom use does not completely eliminate the risk of STDs. In fact, the condom is more susceptible to leakage, breakage, and slippage during anal intercourse.
