Young folks in heterosexual, sexual relationships between the ages of 16-24 are apparently venturing out and trying anal sex at a younger age than heterosexual partners 20 years ago, according to new research published in the Journal of Adolescent Health.
The study was informed by three national surveys on lifestyle and sexual practices in the UK. Data from 1990-91 shows that only one in 10 young adults between 16-24 (and who reported having sex in the past year) had tried vaginal, oral, and anal sex.
But by 2010-2012, or the most recent data, that number had increased to one in five. The biggest increase in the prevalence or oral and anal sex among heterosexual partners was in the 16-18 age group.
"By shedding light on when some young people are having sex and what kinds of sex they are having, our study highlights the need for accurate sex and relationships education that provides opportunities to discuss consent and safety in relation to a range of sexual practices," said lead study author Dr. Ruth Lewis in a press release.
While it seems like people are "experimenting" at an earlier age, the data doesn't really show a change in the age at which people have sex for the first time. So it's not like people are having sex earlier, and therefore are venturing out and trying new things earlier.
The study doesn't explain why this might be, but Cynthia Graham — a professor in sexual and reproductive health at the University of Southampton — told the BBC that more access to information via the internet and TV likely have an effect on the changing sex behaviours. "Anal sex is still pretty stigmatised, but attitudes appear to be changing," Graham said.
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