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Prevalence and correlates of heterosexual anal and oral sex in adolescents and adults in the United States.

Journal of Infectious Diseases 2007; 196:1852-1859.

Leichliter JS, Chandra A, Liddon N, Fenton KA, Aral SO.

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Heterosexual anal and oral sex are related to the acquisition of sexually transmitted infections, including human immunodeficiency virus infection. We examined the correlates of heterosexual anal and oral sex in the general population, using data from the National Survey of Family Growth. METHODS: The sample included 12,571 men and women aged 15-44 years (79% response rate). RESULTS: One-third of men and women had ever had anal sex, and three-quarters had ever had oral sex. Condom use during last oral or anal sex was relatively uncommon. In separate models for men and women, having ever had anal sex was associated with white race, age of 20-44 years, and having had a non-monogamous sex partner. White race, age of 20-44 years, being married, and having higher numbers of lifetime sex partners were related to having ever given oral sex in men and women. Giving oral sex was associated with having a non-monogamous sex partner in men. Ever receiving oral sex was associated with white race and a non-monogamous sex partner in men and women. CONCLUSIONS: It would be beneficial to track the prevalence of heterosexual anal and oral sex and associated condom use on a more frequent basis.


Page last modified: April 16, 2008
Page last reviewed: April 16, 2008

Content Source: Division of STD Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention