Does Anal Sex Cause Prostate Cancer? We Clear Your Doubts

Fundo azul, mão com dois dedos para cima representando a penetração anal e a dúvida se sexo anal causa câncer de próstata

Does Anal Sex Cause Prostate Cancer? We Clear Your Doubts

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It is not true that anal sex causes prostate cancer. Prostate stimulation can be pleasurable, but if not done safely, it may lead to other health issues. Learn more.

The practice of anal sex raises many questions and concerns, especially when the man is the receptive partner. One of the most common questions is whether anal sex causes prostate cancer.

To clarify this matter, it is important to analyze and debunk the myths. Let’s dive in! 

Does Anal Sex Cause Prostate Cancer?

Practicing anal sex does not cause prostate cancer. The prostate stimulation that occurs during the act is not linked to the development of the disease.

The prostate is a gland responsible for producing part of the semen, and its health can be affected by various factors, but not by sex.

Prostate cancer is more commonly associated with genetic factors, lifestyle habits, and age.

What About Anal Cancer?

Anal sex does not directly cause cancer in this region. However, it can contribute to HPV (human papillomavirus), which is associated with the development of certain types of cancer, including anal cancer.

HPV transmission mainly occurs through unprotected sex, whether vaginal or anal.

Can Anal Sex Affect the Prostate?

During anal sex, the expected result is prostate stimulation, which may lead to enhanced sexual pleasure.

When performed safely, there are no risks to the prostate.

Discomfort during anal sex is often linked to improper techniques, such as lack of preparation, dubious methods, or insufficient lubrication.

These factors may cause injuries to the anal mucosa or increased muscle tension, resulting in a negative experience.

Real Risk Factors for Prostate Issues

Anal sex itself does not harm prostate health.

The real risk factors for prostate diseases include:

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

  • Advanced age
  • Family history
  • Obesity
  • Sedentary lifestyle

Prostatitis

  • Frequent urinary infections
  • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
  • Use of urinary catheters

Prostate Cancer

  • Advanced age
  • Family history
  • Obesity
  • Unhealthy diet
  • Hormonal imbalances, especially testosterone

Does Anal Sex Increase the Risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)?

All sexual activity, when performed without protection, increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Unprotected anal sex also carries this risk and may even be more susceptible.

Since the anal area is not naturally lubricated, it is more prone to microtears. The contact between blood and bodily fluids facilitates the transmission of diseases such as HIV, HPV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, genital herpes, and hepatitis B and C.

Additionally, remember that before inserting the penis into the anus, a new condom must be used. If the sexual activity continues afterward, the condom should be replaced.

Gray bed sheet with red lubricant bottle and white condom package symbolizing the doubt: Does anal sex cause prostate cancer?

Tips for Safe and Comfortable Anal Sex

To increase the likelihood of a safe and comfortable experience during anal sex, it’s essential to follow these tips:

  • Use a water-based lubricant to avoid discomfort and injuries.
  • Condom use is crucial to prevent STIs.
  • If you are inexperienced, start with prostate stimulation using a finger or sex toys, always covered with a condom.
  • Experiment with positions to make the practice more pleasurable and comfortable.
  • Communicate openly with your partner about your limits.

How to Care for Prostate Health

Maintaining prostate health requires a healthy lifestyle and regular consultations with a urologist.

A balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management can contribute to preventing prostate-related diseases.

Annual visits to the urologist can help detect prostate cancer early and identify other conditions requiring attention. Examinations like the digital rectal exam and PSA tests are essential for monitoring prostate health, especially in men with associated risk factors.

The doctor can address common concerns related to anal sex, erectile function, or anatomical aspects, always with ethical and personalized guidance.

Dr. Paulo Egydio shares tips like these on his WhatsApp channel. Follow Dr. Paulo Egydio’s channel for more information about men’s health and preventive care.

Learn more:

Paulo Egydio, M.D.

PhD in Urology from USP, CRM 67482-SP, RQE 19514, Author of Geometric Principles (known as “Egydio Technique”), as well as other articles and scientific books in the area. Guest professor to teach classes and live surgeries at conferences in Brazil and abroad.

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