A relatively taboo subject, anal intercourse is growing in popularity. But it’s been around forever.
A practice deemed a crime against nature and once widely viewed as exclusively homosexual is now prominent among heterosexual couples, as well.
A study by The Journal of Sexual Medicine recently found that 46 percent of women between ages 20 and 39 have tried anal intercourse. This is a 13 percent increase since 1992, which indicates either more people are trying it or more are willing to admit it.
It may not be the most appealing topic, and is certainly frowned upon by most religious organizations. But people are doing it. More significantly, many young people are experimenting with such activities, whether they own up to it or not.
Either way, being educated about the potential health concerns and risks is of utmost importance. Your booty call may need some more convincing after looking at the fine print.
First of all, if a couple is resorting to anal intercourse to avoid a pregnancy, they need to think again, especially if a condom is not being used. About 8 percent of couples who use this birth-control method end up pregnant. While the risks are low, the possibility of conceiving is still there — it’s always there.
It is more likely for a condom to break from anal penetration, but there are a multitude of reasons not to pass on protection.
Although using a condom may seem unnecessary, protection should always be a priority.
Let’s start with hygiene. This area is a haven for bacteria, so the likelihood of receiving an infection is certainly elevated.
That’s not even touching on STD risks, which are still prevalent in buggery business.
Introducing bacteria from the anal area to others can lead to many infections, most commonly urinary tract infections in women. Because of obvious hygienic reasons, as well as STD risks, extra care should be taken when engaging in other forms of pleasure following anal contact.
Now that we’ve covered infection risks, it’s time to talk about the good stuff — injury. The lining of the anus is much thinner than vaginal walls and can be prone to small tears, or fissures. Since this orifice was not designed for aforementioned action, the muscles that control what it was made for can weaken from frequent abrasive interaction.
It’s almost required (and certainly considerate) to use a water-based lubricant when engaging in anal pleasure to avoid pain and injury, since it does not secrete its own natural lubricant.
Another major health concern is anal cancer. This is generally attributed to HPV infection in the anus. Being vaccinated for HPV can help protect against this virus that has been the cause of about 90 percent of anal cancer cases. These days, this vaccine is a good idea for both men and women, in general, even if you prefer to stay on the sidelines.
It may or may not sound tempting, but engaging in anal intercourse is without a doubt growing in popularity. Like any sexual activity, precautions must be taken, and adequate communication between partners is important for such an uncomfortable affair.
Although taking the time to educate yourself on these risks is, well, anal, it’s completely worth it. Whether you’re the catcher or the pitcher, knowing how to avoid infection or injury on both ends is crucial to a pleasurable experience.
 
Gabie Bacques is a 21-year-old animal science senior from Mandeville. Follow her on Twitter @TDR_Gbacques.
 
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Contact Gabie Bacques at [email protected]