There's an urban myth that anal sex can result in pregnancy. But according to Chris Peterson, a doctor at the University's Student Health Center, it is just that -- a myth.
Peterson acknowledged, however, that "anal sex often accompanies vaginal sex," and pregnancy can result from the latter.
Although anal sex may not carry a risk of pregnancy, it does not prevent sexually transmitted diseases or infections. So those who choose to engage in anal sex still need to use protection, Peterson said.
Anal sex, in fact, is more risky than other forms of sex, according to fourth-year College student Michael Daguiso, a peer health educator with the AIDS Services Group in Charlottesville.
The anus "is a very sensitive area with a lot of blood vessels," Daguiso said. "Without natural lubricants, sex breaks blood vessels, creating more opportunity for a virus to enter the blood system."
Many of the same STIs that can be transmitted by intercourse also can spread through anal sex, Peterson said. These include, but are not limited to, syphilis, hepatitis, human papillomavirus (genital warts or HPV), and HIV.
In order to reduce the risk, Daguiso suggested wearing a condom and using a lubricant. The lubricant is essential to reducing friction and preventing tissue from tearing, Daguiso said.
Daguiso warned, however, that even when both partners use enough lubricant, tissue tearing can still occur.
One first-year student, who has been openly gay since high school, said that in one instance, he had some "minor bleeding until the next day."
"It happened when I was with this guy who was huge," he said, speaking on condition of anonymity. "I was so high, I didn't notice he had done a number on me until it was too late."
Other precautions to take before anal sex include some hygienic measures.
"I always make sure I've showered recently," the first-year student said.
According to Peterson, the most recent bowel movement is irrelevant.
"Feces are full of bacteria," she said. "Whether or not [feces] are present in the rectum, the bacteria is. It is not unusual to get an infection from the bacteria."
Although Peterson was unsure about the benefits and harms of enemas, she said the best way to prevent an infection is to use protection.
Despite the risks and sometimes undesirable effects of anal sex, both heterosexual and homosexual couples still participate in this sexual activity.
"I have anal sex because it is, in my opinion, the highest form of intimacy between two men," the anonymous first-year student said.
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