Rimming

Published: 07 April 2009

Rimming (oral-anal contact) is considered a negligible-risk activity for HIV transmission. There is a theoretical risk that the presence of blood in the rectum (for instance as a result of fingering, fisting, having intercourse with or use of sex toys) may present a risk of infection for the person doing the rimming. Faeces may contain traces of blood containing HIV, and HIV infection of parasites found in faeces has been demonstrated in the laboratory.

It is also possible that blood may be introduced into the rectum by the tongue, from bleeding gums. One case has been reported where a man rimming another man may have infected his partner by this route. The man who was infected was rimmed by an HIV-infected partner who is speculated to have had gum disease.1

There are no other reported cases of infection or likely infection through rimming. Any minimal risk that might be present can be further reduced by using latex barriers such as dental dams.

References

  1. Gill SK et al. Transmission of HIV-1 infection by oroanal intercourse. Genitourinary Medicine 68: 254-257, 1992
This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.
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This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.

NAM’s information is intended to support, rather than replace, consultation with a healthcare professional. Talk to your doctor or another member of your healthcare team for advice tailored to your situation.