On 13/7, Dr. Tra Anh Duy of the Men’s Health center reported that a 25-year-old male patient presented with anal itching and mild rectal pain. Tests revealed he had contracted HPV type 6, which causes genital warts around the anus, as well as gonorrhea and chlamydia in the rectal area.

Fortunately, tests for HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C were negative. The patient was prescribed post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to reduce the risk of HIV infection. He was also advised to use condoms correctly, get vaccinated against HPV, and undergo STI screenings every 6 months.

According to Dr. Duy, anal sex carries the highest risk of transmitting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, especially without a condom. A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that the risk of HIV transmission from an infected person during anal sex is 18 times higher than during vaginal sex. Anal sex also increases the risk of contracting syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, hepatitis B and C, genital warts, and HPV-related anal cancer.

The heightened risk of infection during anal sex is due to the thin and delicate nature of the rectal lining, which tears easily, allowing viruses and bacteria to enter. Unlike the vagina, the anus does not self-lubricate, increasing the risk of tissue damage and bleeding, often unnoticed.

Dr. Duy recommends condom use during anal sex for both partners. He also advises against sharing sex toys without sterilization and avoiding intercourse if there are any wounds or inflamed hemorrhoids. For those at risk, regular testing for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis, and HPV every 3 to 6 months is crucial. Vaccination against HPV and HBV is recommended before the age of 45, ideally between the ages of 9 and 26.

Le Phuong