Anal intercourse and its effects on the female anus and anal sphincter
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Does anal intercourse damage the female anus and anal sphincter?
IRAS ID
339676
Contact name
Keith Chapple
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 7 months, 1 days
Research summary
It is recognised that placing objects into the anus risks damage to the bowel and anal muscles, with the limited evidence available demonstrating an association between anal intercourse and faecal incontinence. The incidence of anal intercourse in young women is increasing, presumably in part due to the wider availability of internet pornography. However anal intercourse is a taboo subject, leading to a dearth of research and a paucity of healthcare-related information. This potentially presents a significant public health issue which is not being addressed.
We aim to definitively establish if women exposed to anal intercourse have objective evidence of anal sphincter damage and consequent reduction in anal function. We will assess a group of women with occupational exposure to anal intercourse by (1) clinical assessment (2) anorectal manometry (a measure of anal canal function using a catheter in the anus) and (3) endoanal ultrasound (which assesses the anatomical integrity of the anal sphincters) and compare these findings to a group of women who have never had anal intercourse. In addition, a qualitative assessment of the impact of anal intercourse in women undertaking anal intercourse as part of their occupation will be obtained.
Previous work stating why we felt the consequences of female anal intercourse are a legitimate subject for investigation generated massive public and medical interest. Successful completion of this work will provide robust data on the risks of anal intercourse in women which we expect to be widely disseminated. This may open the door for public education on the potential risk of anal intercourse.
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 2
REC reference
25/NS/0013
Date of REC Opinion
14 Feb 2025
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion