Experiencing Rectal Bleeding During Anal Intercourse Without Clear Diagnosis
As a 22-year-old male, I find myself frequently engaging in receptive anal intercourse, both with my male partners and during pegging sessions with my girlfriend. However, I have been facing a troubling issue of rectal bleeding that occurs both during and after these encounters. To address the situation, I consulted a gastroenterologist who recommended a sigmoidoscopy, which yielded entirely normal results. Following this, a colonoscopy was suggested, and once again, it revealed no abnormalities. Next, I met with a colorectal surgeon who performed an anorectal manometry, which also came back normal. Seeking further insights, I turned to an infectious disease specialist who conducted a comprehensive STD panel, all of which returned negative results. Despite these medical evaluations, I continue to experience significant bleeding during receptive anal sex, whether I am using my girlfriend’s strap-on or my male partner’s penis. This distressing symptom occurs even when ample lubrication is applied and we maintain a slow pace. While I do not experience intense pain—only minor discomfort—the bleeding is noticeably severe and alarming. I am at a loss for what might be causing this condition. Are there additional tests or specialists I should consider in my search for answers? I feel like I have exhausted all possible avenues without resolution.
Answers (1)

7/3/2025, 5:30:59 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel distressed about experiencing rectal bleeding during anal intercourse, especially after undergoing various medical evaluations without a clear diagnosis. It's important to address your concerns with empathy and provide actionable next steps while recognizing how this issue impacts your well-being.
Summary of Main Points
- You have been thoroughly evaluated with normal results but continue to experience significant rectal bleeding during anal intercourse.
- This situation may stem from physical, anatomical, or even technique-related issues.
Explanation
While your tests have ruled out common concerns, there are several factors that can lead to rectal bleeding during anal intercourse, even in the absence of identifiable conditions. Possible causes include:
- Tissue Trauma: Repeated stress on the anal mucosa can cause micro-tears, leading to bleeding, especially if not enough care is taken with lubrication and positioning.
- Hemorrhoids: Although they may not have been diagnosed, internal hemorrhoids can sometimes be asymptomatic and still lead to bleeding during such activities.
- Anatomical Issues: Conditions such as anal fissures can develop without being readily diagnosed through standard procedures if they are small or not currently active.
Next Steps
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Modify Technique: Focus on ensuring you are using ample lubrication (consider a thicker gel) and explore different positions or angles that minimize stress on the anal area. Discuss with your partners the pace and depth to ensure comfort and reduce the risk of trauma.
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Consider Other Specialists:
- Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist: They can assess muscle tension and mechanics that might contribute to discomfort or injury during anal intercourse.
- Proctologist: This specialist focuses specifically on issues pertaining to the rectum and anus and might provide further insights or treatment options.
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Self-Care Measures:
- After anal intercourse, consider using a warm sitz bath to soothe the area.
- Monitor your body for patterns, such as frequency, consistency, and factors that may trigger the bleeding. Keeping a journal of your experiences can help identify correlations.
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Follow-Up: If bleeding persists even after implementing these recommendations, return to your healthcare provider with detailed observations, as this may warrant a more in-depth evaluation or consideration of less common diagnoses.
Please remember that your concerns are valid, and it's important to prioritize your comfort and well-being during sexual activities. Open communication with your partners about your experiences is also essential for maintaining a healthy sexual relationship. Let me know if you need more assistance or details!
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