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Proctitis refers to inflammation of the anal canal and rectum. It is commonly caused by chlamydia and gonorrhoea in people who have receptive (ie receiving) anal sex. But other STIs such as syphilis, herpes virus and Mpox can also cause proctitis.
Proctitis is usually acquired through having unprotected anal sex, either from transmission from the penis to anus or from the mouth to anus through oral sex.
The majority of cases of proctitis produce symptoms which include:
Diagnosis of proctitis is based on typical symptoms and examination by the practitioner. As well as doing tests for STI pathogens, your practitioner may do an internal rectal examination (proctoscopy) to check for inflammation in the anal canal. This is not done when there are painful ulcers.
Proctitis is treated according to the cause of the infection, often with the same antibiotics that we use for chlamydia or gonorrhoea infections. The practitioner may prescribe antibiotics based on the likely cause of infection prior to results being available. Where herpes is likely, anti-herpes medication may also be prescribed. You should avoid sex while being treated for proctitis.
Depending on the results of your initial tests, you may be recalled for further treatment. Following treatment, review may be required if your symptoms have not resolved.
Using condoms with receptive anal sex, particularly with new sexual partners is the best way to prevent infection. Additionally, for your general sexual health care you should discuss with your medical practitioner other preventive management such as PrEP, Mpox vaccination and doxyPEP.
Disclaimer
This fact sheet provides general sexual health information and is not intended to replace the need for a consultation with your doctor.
If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your doctor.
If you require urgent care, you should go to your nearest Emergency Department or call 000.
