While many common symptoms of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are widely recognized, some manifestations can be less obvious. Diarrhea, for instance, might not be the first symptom people associate with an STI, yet certain infections can impact the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and lead to digestive issues. Understanding these connections is important for recognizing and seeking appropriate medical care.
Understanding the Connection
STIs can lead to diarrhea through several biological mechanisms. Some infections directly target the cells lining the gastrointestinal tract, causing inflammation and disrupting their function. This inflammation can result in increased fluid secretion into the intestines and reduced absorption of water, leading to loose stools.
Other STIs might weaken the body’s immune system, making an individual more susceptible to opportunistic infections that cause diarrhea. Additionally, systemic inflammation triggered by an STI can indirectly affect digestive processes, altering gut motility or nutrient absorption. The presence of certain STI pathogens can also disturb the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, contributing to digestive upset.
Specific STIs That Can Cause Diarrhea
Several specific sexually transmitted infections have been linked to diarrhea, each through distinct pathways.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) can cause diarrhea both directly and indirectly. During the acute phase of HIV infection, some individuals experience flu-like symptoms, which can include diarrhea. In later stages, HIV compromises the immune system, making individuals vulnerable to opportunistic infections like Cryptosporidium or Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), which cause chronic and severe diarrhea. Additionally, certain antiretroviral medications can have diarrhea as a side effect.
Hepatitis viruses
Hepatitis viruses, particularly Hepatitis A, can cause digestive symptoms like diarrhea. Hepatitis A is primarily a liver infection, but it can cause systemic symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This virus is commonly transmitted through the fecal-oral route, including oral-anal sex. While less common, Hepatitis B and C can sometimes present with generalized symptoms that may include digestive upset.
Rectal STIs
Rectal STIs, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis, can directly cause inflammation of the rectal lining, known as proctitis. This inflammation can lead to symptoms like rectal pain, discharge, and changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea. For instance, rectal gonorrhea and chlamydia infections can result in watery stools and an urgent need to defecate.
Enteric Infections
Certain enteric infections, traditionally linked to contaminated food or water, can also be sexually transmitted, particularly through oral-anal contact, causing severe diarrhea. These include infections like Giardiasis, Shigellosis, and Amebiasis. These pathogens directly infect the intestines, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and significant diarrhea, sometimes bloody.
When to Seek Medical Guidance
If you experience persistent diarrhea, especially with other concerning symptoms or potential STI exposure, seeking medical guidance is important. Symptoms like ongoing abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, or unexplained weight loss, alongside diarrhea, warrant medical evaluation. Discussing your sexual history with a healthcare provider helps identify potential risks and recommend appropriate testing.
Accurate STI testing is the only way to confirm the cause of your symptoms and ensure effective treatment. Self-diagnosing or delaying medical attention can lead to complications and allow the infection to spread. A healthcare professional can provide the right diagnosis and treatment plan, important for your health and preventing further transmission.