Dear jk2002,

Many men and women enjoy anal stimulation, regardless of whether they are gay, lesbian, straight, or bisexual. Some people enjoy anal sex, and some people do not. Both preferences are common.

Sexual orientation — being lesbian, bisexual, gay, or straight — is about sexual attraction. It can take years to understand our sexual orientation. Each of us has to answer these questions for ourselves, but it may take time before we can answer.

Remember, although anal intercourse does not cause pregnancy — unless ejaculate or pre-ejaculate is spilled in the vagina or on or near the vulva — unprotected anal intercourse is high-risk for many sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea, HIV, chlamydia, syphilis, herpes, HPV, and hepatitis. Using condoms during anal sex helps decrease the risk of sexually transmitted infections.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.