How risky is anal intercourse for HIV transmission?

Anal intercourse (bum fucking, screwing ass), whether between two men or between a man and a woman, is high risk for HIV transmission. The risk can be greatly reduced through the proper use of condoms and lubricant.

All of the conditions for easy transmission of HIV are in place in this sexual activity. Insertive partners (tops)are at risk of getting HIV through the urethra (opening at the tip of the penis), but the highest risk for HIV is to receptive partners (bottoms).

"Pulling out" before ejaculation (cumming) does not offer protection from HIV transmission, because HIV is present in pre-ejaculate (pre-cum). While "pulling out" may reduce the risk of HIV transmission, it remains a high-risk activity. See our page on Risk Reduction and anal sex for further information.

Visit our Risk Assessment page!