Understanding and Challenging Stigma toward ... - Pact Cambodia

MSM and HIV
5. Record responses on a flipchart.
Example Responses:
The information provided below is technically correct information about HIV
transmission within an MSM context. Use this information in helping participants
understand each of these risk situations. Start off by getting participants to explain what
they know about each of these risk situations and how HIV is transmitted. Then provide
some of this factual information when needed to help fill the gaps in understanding.
Receptive anal intercourse: Highest risk. The rectum is lined with a mucus
membrane, a very sensitive part of the body which tears very easily, especially if
the insertive partner is not using lubricant. Once the lining of the rectum gets
cut, HIV in the sperm or in blood from cuts on the penis of the insertive partner
can get easily into the body and the bloodstream of the receptive partner.
Insertive anal intercourse: High risk. This is also risky for HIV transmission, but not
as risky as receptive anal sex. HIV is contained in blood and rectal fluids that
can pass through the urethra of the penis or under the foreskin of someone who
is uncircumcised.
Oral sex (receptive): Low risk. Receptive oral sex is more risky than insertive oral
sex. The person sucking is more at risk than the person whose penis is sucked.
Why? Sperm gets into the mouth of the person sucking and can penetrate the
skin around the teeth, which can easily get cut. The skin is strong in most parts
of the mouth except around the teeth (the gums) so there is a potential for HIV
entering the body through cuts or bleeding in the gums.
Oral sex (insertive): Low risk. The skin on the penis, especially if circumcised, is
strong and less vulnerable to cuts. The person sucking may have cuts in the
mouth which produce blood but saliva in the person’s mouth is protecting the
penis and the acid in the saliva neutralizes the blood from the gums.
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