Vaginal, Anal and Oral Sex

Vaginal sex

Is transmission possible, even when the man only quickly penetrates?

Yes. Infection with a sexually transmitted disease or HIV can occur even through quick penetration of the penis into the vagina.

Is vaginal sex risky, even though neither of us had an orgasm?

Yes. Unprotected vaginal sex is always risky with or without ejaculation.

I am in a steady relationship. Can I still get infected?

Yes. Whether married or not, there is always the possibility of a partner being unfaithful.
Whether you have a one night stand or are having an affair, always protect yourself and your partner by using a condom.

I quickly put my finger into my partner’s vagina. Should I be worried?

No. There is no risk of becoming infected with the HI virus. However if the finger was then put into the mouth, sexually transmitted diseases could be passed on.

If I withdraw before orgasm – Coitus interruptus – will I be protected from sexually transmitted infection?

No. Coitus interruptus gives neither sufficient protection from HIV nor from other sexually transmitted diseases or from an unwanted pregnancy.

Can I use the same condom for vaginal sex and anal sex?

No. You should always use a new condom for each different body aperture (anus, vagina). Only then are you suitably protected against HIV, sexually transmitted diseases or hepatitis C

Can I also get infected when I insert a sextoy into my vagina?

No. Stick to these rules of hygiene: before using the dildo, or allowing someone else to use it, always wash it thoroughly with soap and water or clean with alcohol.

Anal sex

Unprotected anal sex involves the greatest risk of contracting HIV, even without ejaculation. Therefore, always stick to the Safer Sex Rules: anal sex only with a condom. If the condom splits or falls off then seek expert advice.

Why does unprotected anal sex, even without the emission of semen, involve a high risk of HIV transmission?

The mucus membrane in the anus is thin and is often injured during anal sex. Moreover there is also the risk of infection with hepatitis B, herpes, syphilis and other infections.

We would like to have anal sex. How can we best protect ourselves?

When performing anal sex, condoms give protection from HIV infection and also lower the risk of passing on sexually transmitted indections. For every new partner and every new contact, use a new condom. Always use condoms with added, fat-free lubricant.

Does anal sex require special condoms?

No. Although the Swiss AIDS Foundation advise against using extra-thin, textured or ribbed condoms.
In addition a fat-free lubricant should be used. Never use two condoms on top of each other, this will not provide any extra protection! On the contrary, the condoms can rip because of the friction caused.

Can I get infected by performing anilingus (asslicking or rimming)?

No, not, with the HI virus. However other sexually transmitted infections could be passed on to the person who licks the anus or the anal region.

Is finger-play inside the anus risky?

No, there is no risk of becoming infected with the HI virus. However sexually transmitted infections such as herpes, hepatitis A or gonorrhea (the clap) can be passed on when the finger is put into the mouth after contact with the anus.

I had anal intercourse with a male sex worker. Should I go and get myself tested?

Male sex workers have sex with many men, accordingly the risk of infection with a sexually transmitted disease is high. If you had unprotected anal intercourse or the condom split, seek advice immediately. Emergency treatment, PEP, can prevent an HIV infection, but only up to a maximum of 48 hours after the risk situation. The sexual health of male sex workers is not controlled by the government. If a male sex worker offers you unprotected sex or allows you to carry out unprotected sex, he does the same for other men. Therefore: use a condom every time for any kind of sexual contact.

For recommendations based on your personal sexuality, try our Safer Sex Check at lovelife.ch

Oral sex

There is practically no risk of contracting HIV through oral sex (sucking or licking the penis, vagina or anus), because the mucuous membrane in the mouth is very stable. Even if sperm or menstrual blood gets into the mouth, the risk of transmission is very small – there have been only a few cases world-wide in which an HIV infection has been recorded.

Was should be taken into consideration when performing oral sex with respect to sexually transmitted infections?

Sexually transmitted infections are passed on more easily than the HI virus. When performing oral sex you can protect yourself against chlamydia, gonorrhea (the clap), syphilis etc by using a condom or a dental dam. When performing oral sex with a male or female prostitute always use condoms and/or dental dams. Dental dams are wafer-thin latex sheets that can be used when performing oral sex.

For recommendations based on your personal sexuality, try our Safer Sex Check.