How can I make rimming (oral-anal contact) safer?

Licking and sucking around the ass hole (rimming) is not a risky activity for HIV (the virus that can lead to AIDS) but it is very high risk for hepatitis and parasites.

To reduce this risk:

  • get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B; if you have already had hepatitis you do not need to be vaccinated for the type of hepatitis that you have had;
  • wash thoroughly around and just inside the ass hole (anus) before rimming;
  • split a non-lubricated condom lengthwise and use it as a barrier between the mouth and ass hole.

Do not rim someone if you have active cold sores (herpes).

If you enjoy rimming, get checked for parasites during your regular Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) checkup every six months.

For more information, e-mail ACT's Gay Men’s Community Education Coordinator or check out our new Safer Rimming brochure (below) for tips on how to keep yourself and your partner healthy, happy, and horny:

ACT_SaferRimming_Brochure.pdf854 (Kbytes)