We talk a lot about STIs like gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia—but did you know some infections that cause diarrhea and stomach issues can also be spread through sex? If you’re into oral-anal play (rimming), group fun, or experimenting with different types of sexual contact, you should know about sexually transmitted enteric infections (aka infections that affect your gut).
What Are Enteric Infections?
Enteric infections are illnesses that affect your intestines and can cause diarrhea, nausea, cramps, and other stomach issues. Many of these infections spread when even tiny amounts of poop (yes, even microscopic) make their way into the mouth during sexual activity. The main culprits include:
- Shigella – A nasty bacteria that can spread through rimming and oral-anal contact. Cases among gay, bi, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) have been rising, and some strains are becoming resistant to antibiotics.
- E. coli & Campylobacter – Bacteria that can cause severe diarrhea and stomach cramps. Again, oral-anal play can spread these germs.
- Hepatitis A – A virus that infects the liver and can spread through sex, especially when it involves oral-anal contact. (Good news: there’s a vaccine for this one!)
- Giardia & Entamoeba histolytica – Parasites that cause prolonged diarrhea and stomach pain. These little buggers can be passed through rimming, toys, or fingers.
What Puts You at Risk?
Certain sexual activities and social behaviors can make enteric infections more likely, including:
✔️ Rimming (oral-anal contact) (for tips on how to rim safely, check out this blog!)
✔️ Using fingers, toys, or hands in both anal and oral play
✔️ Group sex or sex parties
✔️ Using hookup apps to connect with multiple partners
✔️ Chemsex (using drugs like meth, GHB, or mephedrone during sex), which can lower inhibitions and increase riskier behavior
✔️ Scat play (yes, we’re talking about it!)
What Are the Symptoms?
If you’ve got an enteric infection, you might experience:
🚨 Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
🚨 Stomach cramps or nausea
🚨 Fever or chills
🚨 Feeling extra tired or weak
🚨 Dehydration from all that… um, flushing
What Can You Do?
💡 Get tested – If you have diarrhea that won’t go away or other gut issues after sex, ask your doctor for a stool test. Regular STI tests won’t catch these infections.
💡 Practice good hygiene – Wash your hands (and your 🍑), clean sex toys, and use barriers like dental dams or gloves to help reduce risk.
💡 Know your partners & risks – If you’re engaging in higher-risk activities, being aware and informed can help you make the best choices for your health.
💡 Vaccinate when possible – The Hep A vaccine can protect you from one of these infections!
💡 Seek treatment if needed – Many enteric infections clear up on their own, but some may require antibiotics or other medications. A doctor can help guide you to the right treatment.
One last thing…
Queer sex is amazing, fun, and diverse—and your health shouldn’t hold you back from living your best life. Understanding the risks of enteric infections means you can take steps to protect yourself while still enjoying the pleasure and connection you deserve. So go forth, get tested when needed, and keep that gut (and that 🍑) happy!
Have you experienced diarrhea for more than 7 days? Need testing or more info? We’ve got you covered—reach out to us anytime at 855-5-WE-CARE or visit www.centraloutreach.com!
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 'Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and Enteric Infections in MSM.'
- World Health Organization (WHO). 'Guidelines on Enteric Infections and Sexual Transmission.'
- British Medical Journal (BMJ). 'Rising Antibiotic Resistance in Shigella Among MSM.'
- Public Health England. 'Hepatitis A and Other Enteric Infections in MSM.'
