Oral-anal sex is often referred to as analingus. Analingus, or "rimming," is not considered to be an independent risk factor for HIV. However, it has been shown to be a route of transmission for hepatitis A and B, as well as parasitic infections like giardiasis and amebiasis.

To reduce the risk:

• Use a latex barrier—such as a natural rubber latex sheet, a dental dam or a cut-open condom that makes a square—between your mouth and the anus. A latex barrier reduces the risk of blood or anal fluids entering your mouth. Plastic food wrap also can be used as a barrier.