Heterosexual Oral and Anal Sex: Perceptions, Terminologies, and Attitudes of Younger and Older Adults in Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract

Although heterosexual oral and anal sexual behaviors have been reported in sub-Saharan Africa, little is known about how they are understood and perceived, particularly, in West Africa. We undertook a qualitative exploration of local terminologies and sexual scripts associated with heterosexual oral and anal sex in preparation for a quantitative survey. We held focus group discussions (18) and interviews (44) with younger and middle-aged men and women from the general population and female sex workers (FSWs) in selected communities in Ibadan. Most participants had heard of oral and anal sex. Younger adults aged 18–25 years, particularly male participants and FSWs, appeared more informed than older adults in the general population. Sexually explicit movies were the most cited source of information. Oral and anal sexual behaviors were considered sensitive, with different local names, meanings, and interpretations. Participants advised against the use of slang terms in research. We identified six different scripts employed by participants in discussing oral and anal sex practices: protecting sexual relationship, financial reward, an alternative to vaginal sex, pleasure, male dominance and control, and risk, stigma, and disgust.