From the Guidelines
Oral-anal sexual contact can potentially cause gastroenteritis due to the transmission of bacteria, viruses, and parasites from the anus to the mouth. This practice can lead to the introduction of pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella, norovirus, and intestinal parasites into the digestive system, resulting in gastrointestinal illness 1. Symptoms of resulting gastroenteritis may include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
Key Considerations
- The risk of gastroenteritis from oral-anal sexual contact is significant because the rectum naturally contains high concentrations of bacteria that, while normal in the intestinal tract, can cause illness when introduced to the digestive system through the mouth.
- To reduce the risk of gastroenteritis, individuals can use dental dams or similar barrier methods for oral-anal contact, as recommended by guidelines for preventing opportunistic infections among HIV-infected persons 1.
- Practicing thorough hygiene before and after sexual activity, including frequent washing of hands and genitals with warm soapy water, can also help reduce the risk of illness 1.
- It is essential to avoid oral-anal sexual contact if either partner has active gastrointestinal symptoms or infections to prevent the transmission of pathogens.
- If symptoms of gastroenteritis develop after oral-anal sexual contact, seeking medical care promptly is crucial, as treatment may include antibiotics, antiparasitics, or supportive care depending on the specific pathogen involved.
From the Research
Gastroenteritis and Oral Sexual Intercourse of the Anus
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that oral sexual intercourse of the anus causes gastroenteritis 2, 3, 4.
- Acute gastroenteritis is a common infectious disease syndrome, causing a combination of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, and can be caused by various factors including foodborne bacteria and Clostridium difficile 2.
- A study on sexual practices among heterosexuals found that rimming and anal sex are practiced by one-fifth or more of heterosexuals, but it did not investigate the relationship between these practices and gastroenteritis 3.
- Another study on acute infectious diarrhea and gastroenteritis in children found that the most common cause is rotavirus, and that determining hydration status is a key element in managing the disease, but it did not discuss the relationship between oral sexual intercourse and gastroenteritis 4.
- Overall, there is no clear evidence to suggest that oral sexual intercourse of the anus causes gastroenteritis, and more research would be needed to investigate this potential relationship.