My boyfriend wants to have anal sex without a condom. Can I get pregnant like that?
– Lauren*

You can't get pregnant, but you can get a sexually transmitted disease (STD). In fact, the risk of getting an STD like HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) is even higher with anal sex than vaginal sex since the lining of the rectum is thin and can tear easily.

If you decide to have anal sex, use a condom every time. Because there is less lubrication with anal sex, condoms are more likely to break than with vaginal sex. So use a lot of water-based lubricating gel (available from drugstores).

Even if your boyfriend thinks he's STD free, he may not be. Lots of people can have STDs without knowing it. Even if they don't have symptoms themselves, they can still pass STDs on to a partner. So protect yourself with a condom whenever you have any type of sex — vaginal, oral, or anal. It's also a good idea to get tested for STDs at least once a year and whenever you have a new partner.

Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: May 2009

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Although we can't reply personally, you may see your question posted to this page in the future. If you're looking for medical advice, a diagnosis, or treatment, consult your doctor or other qualified medical professional. If this is an emergency, contact emergency services in your area.

*Names have been changed to protect user privacy

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