Safer sex reduces but does not totally eliminate risk. For example, using a condom correctly and every time for vaginal, anal, or oral sex greatly reduces, but does not totally eliminate, the risk of transmission. Unprotected anal and vaginal sex with an infected person carries a high risk of disease transmission.
Anal sex is especially risky because it can result in tiny tears or cuts in the rectum.
Viruses can enter the body more easily through these open sores than through healthy skin. Unprotected oral sex carries a lower risk, but is not risk-free. The only thing safer is abstinence from vaginal or anal intercourse. Remember, it is necessary to have an HIV test 6 months after engaging in risky sexual behaviors to be sure that you are HIV-negative. In addition, some STIs do not have symptoms for a long time so it is impossible to know for sure if you are infected unless you are tested.