The term barebacking refers to anal intercourse without a condom, mostly between cisgender men, a sexual behavior anchored in social and historical contexts that have given a specific meaning to this behavior compared to other sexual activities. Combined with the existence of dedicated spaces (both virtual and physical) and codes specific to this practice, this had led to the recognition of barebacking culture. The discovery of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) gave this sexual practice specific meaning since it became associated with HIV acquisition risk. The symbolism of this practice has since transformed, as treatment for HIV has changed the prognosis of this infection and as prevention methods, like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), have evolved.
Barebacking has been analyzed as a form of resistance to the predominant biomedical model of prevention based on fear at the start of the HIV/AIDS crisis. Studies have explored the motivations behind this practice, highlighting values such as freedom, solidarity and the right to personal choice. Research has also examined how bareback pornography influences sexual behaviors and the connections between barebacking practices and expressions of masculinity.
Power dynamics between insertive (tops) and receptive (bottoms) partners are important to consider for a critical perspective on barebacking culture, as are racial representations of sexuality between men. Additionally, views on barebacking are diverse within the gay, bisexual and men who have sex with men (gbMSM) communities.
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