I have an itchy anus. Could it be an STI?

Most discussions about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) tend to involve infections that cause symptoms on or around the genitals. And while it’s true that many STIs cause symptoms in the genitals, the genitals aren’t the only place where an STI can find a home.

All sorts of things can cause discomfort in the anus. From haemorrhoids and anal fissures to yeast infections, pinworms and diabetes, anal itching can signal a range of conditions. And one of these conditions could be an STI.

In this blog, we’ll cover what STIs may cause anal itching and how you can get tested for them.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can cause symptoms all over the body.

What is anal itching?

Anal itching, medically known as pruritus ani, is a common symptom that can affect anyone at any age.

This uncomfortable sensation around the anus can be caused by a wide range of factors, from minor irritations to more serious health conditions. STIs can be a possible cause, especially for those who are sexually active. These infections can also lead to other symptoms like painful bowel movements, anal pain, and unusual discharge.

However, STIs are not the only reason someone might experience anal itching. Non-infectious causes, such as anal fissures, haemorrhoids, certain skin conditions, and yeast infections, can also cause anal discomfort and irritation.

Recognising the symptoms of anal itching and understanding the potential underlying causes is important for seeking the right treatment and preventing further complications.

What STIs cause anal itching?

In general, for an STI to cause anal itching, it must be site-specific, meaning the site of transmission is usually where symptoms appear.

So, we need to talk about anal sex.

Anal sex can be particularly risky. The anus is often very delicate and tears easily, increasing the likelihood of transmission of certain infections.

What’s more, full anal sex may not be required. You can contract an STI in your anus if infected bodily fluids come in contact with your anus.

Here are some infections that may cause anal itching.

Anal Herpes

Herpes Simplex Virus, commonly known as Herpes, can easily infect the anus, especially if an infected man performs unprotected anal sex on their partner.

Symptoms of Anal Herpes can include:

• Itching around the anal area
• Small blisters around the anus
• Painful bowel movements
• Unusual discharge from the anus

HSV 1, often known as Oral Herpes, tends to affect the area around the mouth and cause cold sores. HSV 2, also known as Genital Herpes, tends to affect the genitals. It’s possible to get either of these infections in your anus.

Some people may only experience mild symptoms, or may have flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, or muscle aches during the initial outbreak.

Anal Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea is a highly contagious STI. Most Gonorrhoea infections are completely asymptomatic. It tends to affect the genitals, since that’s the most common site of transmission. However, you can get Gonorrhoea in many parts of the body, including the mouth and anus.

Symptoms of Anal Gonorrhoea include:

• Anal mucous or discharge
• “Tenesmus” – the feeling of wanting to continue evacuating faeces even though there is nothing left to come out
• Bleeding from the anus
• Itching around the anus
• Painful bowel movements

Anal Chlamydia

Like Anal Gonorrhoea, Anal Chlamydia is usually transmitted to the anus through anal sex or by infected bodily fluids coming into contact with the anus. The symptoms of an anal Chlamydia infection may not be as noticeable as those of a genital Chlamydia infection.

Symptoms of an Anal Chlamydia infection include:

• Anal itching
• Unusual anal discharge
• Soreness or pain around the anus
• Pain during or after a bowel movement

HPV

Certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause anal warts if the initial HPV infection enters the body through the anus, usually during anal sex.

Anal HPV warts are usually painless and don’t itch. In rare instances, warts can become large enough to obstruct the anus, making bowel movements difficult.

Scabies

A Scabies infection is caused by a parasite that burrows under the skin and lays eggs, causing irritation.

Scabies tends to be passed on through prolonged physical contact, such as hugging, kissing, and sexual intercourse with a person who has an infestation. It can also be passed on by sharing clothing, bedding, and through prolonged contact with infected surfaces.

Another parasitic infestation that can cause itching in the genital and anal areas is pubic lice, which is transmitted through sexual contact or contact with contaminated bedding or clothing.

Symptoms of a Scabies infection in the anus can include:

• Anal itching
• A rash with reddish or dark brown spots at the site of infection

Other common causes of anal itching

While STIs are a well-known cause of anal itching, there are several other common reasons why someone might experience this symptom.

Everyday factors such as irritation from toilet paper, poor hygiene, or the use of scented soaps and personal care products can lead to itching in the anal area.

Conditions like haemorrhoids, which are swollen veins around the anus, and anal fissures, which are small tears in the anal skin, can also cause discomfort and itching.

Other non-STI causes include skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, fungal or yeast infections, and even dietary factors such as eating spicy foods. Sometimes, changes in bowel habits or frequent wiping can irritate the sensitive skin around the anus, making the itching worse.

Because so many different issues can cause anal itching, it’s important to pay attention to any additional symptoms and consider all possible factors when seeking relief.

When to seek medical attention

If you’re experiencing persistent anal itching or if the itching is accompanied by other symptoms such as unusual discharge, anal bleeding, intense anal pain, or changes in bowel movements, it’s important to seek medical attention.

While an itchy anus can be caused by a variety of factors, including both STIs and non-STI conditions, ongoing symptoms should not be ignored. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce discomfort and prevent complications.

Final thoughts

An itchy anus may be innocuous, but it could also be a sign of something more serious.

If you think you may have been exposed to an STI, it’s best to get tested as soon as possible. Most STIs are completely curable with the right medication and cause minimal damage to your health if caught early.

Call the number listed above to speak to one of our Sexual Health Advisors.

Don’t leave your sexual health to chance.

This article first appeared on 14/07/2023. Last updated 12/12/2025.

This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Steve Chapman, 04/08/2025.

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