The age-old question may have been answered. Does anal or vaginal sex lead to higher transmission of HIV? Scientists have embarked on a mission to find out and have published their results.

But, before going into their actual results, let’s look at a few numbers and get a better idea of the risk of casual sex in general.

Casual sex, even when using proper protection, can be risky. While condoms boast a high degree of protection, they are not completely safe against sexually transmitted infections, especially those that are transmitted through skin-to-skin contact such as syphilis, herpes, and HPV. So, though two people may include condoms in their sexual activities, they can still be at risk for contracting an STI if they have not ensured every inch of their genitalia is covered by the condom.

Not only that, but according to studies, just 30 percent of men between the ages of 25 and 34 wear protection in any form. So, 70 percent of men are not protecting themselves or their future partners from all forms of sexually transmitted infections including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV, herpes, syphilis. This can be very dangerous for all who are involved.

But, the question remains, which act, vaginal or anal, is more prone to transmitting infections?

This is difficult to answer as there is little to no data involving couples who only use one sexual act at all times. Most couples switch up and add other forms of sexual acts during their relationships.

Having said that, when focusing just on the transmission of HIV, studies have shown that when engaging in unprotected anal sex the risk is 20 times higher than when engaging in unprotected vaginal sex. This is, for the most part, due to biology. The anus is more prone to trauma because it has a lining that is more fragile lining. This can increase the risk of infections and damage, so it is important to be gentle when engaging in anal sex and always use protection and lubricant.

ANAL SEX: SHOULD YOU ADD IT TO YOUR RELATIONSHIP?

If you and your partner are mutually agreeable, then yes, if you would like. It’s important to properly prepare for anal sex so you or your partner is comfortable. Using a condom is very important during these activities.

Ensuring that no one feels coerced or pressured into anal sex is the first thing that should be addressed. Deciding to add anal sex to your sexual activities is a big decision as it can be painful and discomforting for your partner or yourself if you are in a homosexual relationship. If you would like to add pegging to your heterosexual relationship, the same degree of preparation is needed to ensure you enjoy the experience.

You or your partner can prepare for anal sex by doing a lot of research, emptying your bowels beforehand, taking a shower to ensure both of you are clean (this is great advice no matter what activities you are doing), relaxing, properly using the condom, using a lot of lubricant, and slowly getting the anal canal ready for penetration using your fingers or a sex toy.

WAYS TO REDUCE THE CHANCE YOU OR YOUR PARTNER WILL CONTRACT AN STI

Remain up-to-date on tests

Whether you are experiencing symptoms or not, it is crucial that you remain aware of your STI status. Getting tested to see if you have contracted any infections is a simple process and does not take long. Michael Angarone, DO, who has extensively researched infectious diseases, recommends getting screened annually if you are single and have one partner or more. If you are with multiple partners throughout the year, getting screened more often will ensure you are still in excellent health.

Sometimes, you may have no symptoms of an STI, but be a carrier of the condition. This condition can be transmitted to your partner. Both of you may be surprised that you have an STI, but there are many steps that can be taken to lower the risk.

Use protection

While condoms will not provide 100% protection against infections or pregnancy, they are a great source of protection beyond abstinence. Condoms should be used whenever you engage in any sexual activities including oral, anal, or vaginal sex. These activities exchange many bodily fluids. When used properly and consistently, male condoms can provide 98% protection and female condoms can provide 95% protection. Though the average protection rate is 78% for male condoms as they are often used either inconsistently or improperly.

Use Lubricant

Lubricants are excellent for increasing comfort during sexual relations. Not only do they provide for a smoother experience, they also help sexual relations last longer, especially if a drop is placed within the condom. This can reduce friction, which can lead to a delayed orgasm.

When using lubricant, it is best to avoid those that are oil-based as they can degrade the condom and increase the risk of breakage or leaking.

Water-based condoms are easier to clean up and wash off.

Abstain

When you have discovered symptoms of an STD such as warts on your genitals, mouth, or another part of your body, strange discharges, or any swelling, it is best to go to your doctor. Beginning a treatment plan is an excellent first step to handling whatever the condition is. This treatment plan should begin and established before engaging in sex again so you can protect your future partners.

Whether or not you have an STD, having protected sex is highly recommended to ensure you do not contract an STD or spread one.

WAYS TO ACHIEVE A FIRMER ERECTION

There are many ways to achieve a firmer erection for longer periods of time, such as maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly. These activities can strengthen your heart, boost your mood, and widen your blood vessels so more blood can flow into your penis. In addition, you may want to add an herbal supplement to your daily activities.

This all-natural male sex enhancement supplement offers a variety of benefits, including enhanced libido, erection strength, greater satisfaction, and stress reduction.