Barebacking

Barebacking means having anal intercourse without a condom.  This is a high-risk activity for transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Condoms should always be used for safer anal sex.

Anal sex should always include a latex condom and plenty of water-based lubricant.  AIDS PEI provides these products free of charge.

If you engage in barebacking on a regular basis, you should be tested frequently for HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.  You could also reduce your sexual partners to reduce the risk of becoming infected.

Remember: if you sero-sort (i.e. make a determination that some people are HIV positive and others are negative), the risk for infection remains.  Nearly 25% of Canadians who have HIV don’t yet know they have it (i.e. are undiagnosed) and may still carry the virus while still feeling in good health.

The person penetrating (the top) can also become infected; HIV is not just for bottoms. Blood and anal secretions can be absorbed by thin mucous membranes on the penis.