Barebacking: What's all the Fuss About?

Barebacking, as a term, has been in the air for a few years now; but the phenomenon is, obviously, not new. Generally, barebacking is understood as intentional, unprotected anal intercourse between partners who are either both HIV positive or status unknown. Sometimes people refer to barebacking as unprotected anal sex between positive men only. It’s important to recognize that barebackers usually know the risks involved in their actions. Not everyone who has unprotected anal sex, however, defines themselves as barebackers. A majority of men in monogamous relationships, for example, commonly have unprotected sex, but don’t consider themselves barebackers.

Men bareback for many reasons: a perceived need for greater physical sensation; to heighten a sexual connection; to increase intimacy. For some it may be a kind of social defiance.
The Internet has become an important meeting ground for barebackers. A virtual community has been created where barebackers can meet their sexual partners more easily.

Like all sexual activities, barebacking can have either positive or negative sides, depending on perspectives. Barebacking may excite a fugitive sexual charge, but it can also transmit STIs and increase the risk of reinfection with a different strain of HIV. Psychologically, barebacking may seem like a kick, nevertheless it can also dissolve into self-disgust and depression. Socially, barebacking may bring about connections with similar guys, yet it can also lead to rejection from other desireable partners. Sexually, barebacking can seem like the ultimate intimacy but it’s also seen to be abjectly irresponsible.

If nothing else, barebacking has created a debate in our community about the line between individual liberty and sexual responsibility, both to others and to oneself. Ultimately, condom use is a personal choice. So we arrive at two important thoughts: Gay men have the right to choose condoms or not. But we also have the right to insist on condoms with all of our partners.

From: FERLATTE, O. and HARRIS M.. 2005. Totally Outright a guide for sexual health leaders. Community Based Research centre. 134 pages.