Why is same-sex sex more risky for HIV? & bull; hello healthy

Worldwide, the number of HIV cases among male partners (gay) continues to increase. Initially, this case was often found in developed countries such as the United States in the 1980s. Currently HIV cases in gay partners have decreased in developed countries, but began to spread in developing countries in Africa, South Asia and Southeast Asia, including Indonesia.

What is the relationship between HIV and same-sex sex?

HIV or Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a virus that attacks the immune system. Because it is a retrovirus, HIV can multiply and multiply in the cells of the human body that carries it. This virus has been recognized since the 1950s and until now there is no drug that can stop this viral infection. Treatment given to patients can only be attempted to improve the quality of life and relieve HIV symptoms.

Not infrequently this virus is associated with sexually transmitted diseases because of its similar spread. HIV and sexually transmitted diseases can both be transmitted through sex without contraception and / or with multiple partners. This means both partners gay and heterosexual (different sex) have the same risk of contracting HIV. To understand why same-sex sex is more at risk of HIV, consider the following reasons.

Reasons gay couples are at risk of HIV

There are several reasons for the high risk of HIV in gay sex. The reasons are very diverse and complex, ranging from biological, lifestyle, and social factors. That is why prevention of HIV cases in gay couples is still difficult to promote.

Risk of HIV transmission through anal sex

Anal sex is becoming a common choice for gay couples, although there are also many couples of the opposite sex who practice anal sex. A study published in the International Journal of Epidemiology revealed that the level of risk of HIV transmission through anal sex was 18% greater than vaginal penetration. This is because the natural tissues and lubricants in the anus and vagina are very different. The vagina has many layers that can withstand viral infections, while the anus has only one thin layer. In addition, the anus also does not produce natural lubricants such as the vagina, so the possibility of injury or abrasions when anal penetration is carried out is also higher. These wounds can spread HIV infection.

HIV infection can also occur if there is contact with rectal fluid in the anus. Rectal fluid is very rich in immune cells, so the HIV virus is easy to replicate or multiply. Rectal fluid also becomes a hotbed for HIV. So, if the penetrating partner is HIV positive, the virus will quickly transfer to his partner via rectal fluid in the anus. Unlike the vagina, the anus does not have a natural cleaning system, making it more difficult for the body to prevent viral infections.

Free sex without contraception

Usually same-sex, transgender, and bisexual (LGBT) people are in a narrower circle of associations and communities than heterosexuals. This is because LGBT people are not yet fully accepted by society, so the number is less than heterosexuals. Members of various LGBT communities, especially in certain areas, have very close networks and relationships. As a result, if a gay person has multiple sexual partners, usually he will choose a partner who comes from the same community. This is what causes HIV transmission to be more prevalent in cases of gay people who are gay.

In addition, there are still many gay couples who have sex without safety devices, such as condoms. As previously explained, anal sex is more likely to transmit HIV. Of course this will be even more dangerous if anal sex is done without a condom. HIV transmission due to free sex behavior can actually be prevented by practicing safe sex and not changing partners. Even according to the Director of Direct Contagious Disease Control, Ministry of Health, dr. Sigit Priohutomo, MPH, as reported by the MetroTV News website, the problem does not lie with whom the sex is carried out. It should not matter whether sex is done with the same sex or different sex because what matters is loyalty and responsible behavior by using contraceptives.

Don't get checked out

Because of the social stigma that condemns LGBT people and HIV cases as a disease of gay people, many feel afraid to go to a health facility. In fact, a few days or weeks after being infected with HIV, the patient will enter an acute infection stage where the virus is easily spread. Meanwhile, in the acute infection stage, the symptoms experienced are usually misunderstood as the symptoms of the common cold. With intensive care provided by health workers, this viral infection can be suppressed. Thus, delaying medication and treatment will further put gay people at risk of HIV.

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