While you might have things on your mind, don’t forget that your partner might do too – so listen and give them a chance to tell you what they’re thinking about sex. This could sound like: “I really like it when we…, and wondered how you feel about trying…?” Sex is a delicate topic so be sensitive to your partner’s feelings and start by telling them what you enjoy, and then ease into what you’d like to try or change. If you’re nervous about talking with your partner, check out our tips for getting started. Responsibility for preventing STIs should be shared between you and your partner, so it’s a good idea to talk to each other about protection before you are in the heat of the moment. This makes it impossible for you to pass on the virus. If you have HIV and are taking treatment, the level of HIV in your blood can become undetectable. Have regular tests for HIV and other STIs so that you can get any treatment you might need. Knowing your HIV and STI status helps protect you and your partner. Remember: PEP is not a replacement for condoms and is not available everywhere.
You may be able to take post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent HIV infection, but you must take it within 72 hours for it to work.
See a healthcare professional straight away if you’ve had unprotected anal sex and are worried about STIs. Otherwise, you might tear or scratch the anus, which can put you at higher risk of STIs. If you do this, only use water or a mild soap and be very gentle. Some people clean their anus before anal sex because they want to be sure there is no faeces (poo). This is important so that you don't introduce bacteria from the anus to the vagina or the mouth when you move from one area to another. If you are using an external condom, make sure you use a new one if you move from anal sex to vaginal or oral sex. Oil-based lube (like baby oil or Vaseline) can weaken condoms and make them more likely to break.Īlways wash your fingers, penis or sex toys when switching from anal to other types of sex. Also, PrEP may not be available everywhere.Ī good water-based lube helps to make sex comfortable and to prevent damage to the anus. PrEP is another way to prevent HIV infection, but remember: it does not protect you or your partner from other STIs. Dental dams can protect you during oral-anal sex. You should also put condoms on any sex toys you use and change condoms between partners.
Some people feel safer using extra-thick condoms for anal sex. You can use an external condom (also called a male condom) or an internal condom (also called a female condom) which is inserted into the anus before sex. There are simple steps you can take to protect yourself and your partner.Ĭondoms protect you and your partner during anal sex. This is because the lining of the anus is thin and tears easily, making you more vulnerable to infection. This is particularly the case if you are receiving anal sex. Unprotected anal sex carries a higher risk of getting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) than other kinds of sex.