Ask Your Health Question. Health Experts Answer You ASAP.

(Not a Health Question?)

I have been diagnosed with diverticulosis and since being ...

Sent to Health Experts May 24 01:02 PM

I have been diagnosed with diverticulosis and since being diagnosed a year ago have had three episodes of diverticulitis. I have modified my diet somewhat (I avoid nuts and popcorn) and I take Metamucil every day so I am wondering why I continue to have episodes of diverticulitis. My question is this - - Would having occasional anal sex with my boyfriend bring on an episode of diverticulitis or make my condition worse?

 

Optional Information:
Female , Age: 52

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
May 24 1:55 PM (53 minutes and 52 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
Diverticulosis is very common here in the US, and this is probably in part because of our diet (which is often low-fiber and highly refined) which can also lead to a chronic state of constipation. Most people with diverticulosis will not have any symptoms, but about 10-15 % will develop diverticulitis. Recurrence is not uncommon with diverticulitis.

I think that it is great that you have modified your diet and are consuming more fiber. These can definitely help. It is unknown whether or not anal sex can lead to episodes of diverticulitis, but I would avoid it. Anal sex is relatively traumatic to the anus and rectum, and since you are already predisposed to irritation and inflammation in the area, it is probably best to avoid any potential causes of or triggers of further episodes. Anal sex very well could be a trigger, but studies have not been done, so it cannot be said conclusively. Nevertheless, I think that it is certainly possible.

So I would avoid it. Hopefully this will help a bit, but if not, you may require more aggresive therapy to treat your diverticular disease; many people do. This would be something to discuss with your GI physician.

I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any further questions - I am more than happy to help. Take care.


If I have helped, then please click the ACCEPT button and leave positive feedback - Thank you, and take care
Think you can answer this question?
Login or Become an Expert

 

DISCLAIMER: You acknowledge that any information you may obtain from individuals you contact through use of the JustAnswer service comes from those individuals, not from JustAnswer, and that JustAnswer is not in any way responsible for any of the information these third parties may supply. The site and services are provided "as is" with no warranty and no representations are made regarding the qualification of an Expert. Responses and comments on JustAnswer are for general information and are not intended to substitute for informed professional advice (such as medical, legal, investment or accounting) and do not establish a professional-client relationship. JustAnswer is not intended or designed to address EMERGENCY QUESTIONS which should be directed immediately by telephone or in-person to qualified professionals. Please carefully read the Terms of Service.

JustAnswer > Online Health Advice