Most discussions of sexually transmitted infections (STDs) tend to include infections that cause symptoms on or around the genitals. And while it’s true that many STDs cause genital symptoms, the genitals aren’t the only place an STD can find a home.
All things can cause discomfort in the anus. From hemorrhoids and anal stretch marks to yeast infections, worms and diabetes, anal itching can signal a number of conditions. And one of those conditions could be an STD.
In this blog, we’ll cover which STDs can cause anal itching and how you can get tested for them.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can cause symptoms throughout the body.
What is anal itching?
Itching of the anus, medically known as itching aniit’s a common symptom that can affect anyone at any age.
This unpleasant sensation around the anus can be caused by a wide range of factors, from minor irritations to more serious health conditions. STDs can be a possible cause, especially for those who are sexually active. These infections can also lead to other symptoms, such as painful bowel movements, pain in the anus, and unusual discharge.
However, STDs aren’t the only reason someone may experience anal itching. Noninfectious causes, such as anal fissures, hemorrhoids, certain skin conditions, and yeast infections, can also cause anal discomfort and irritation.
Recognizing the symptoms of anal itching and understanding the possible underlying causes is important in seeking the right treatment and preventing further complications.
What STDs cause itchy anus?
In general, for an STD to cause itching in the anus, it must be site-specific, meaning that the point of transmission is usually where the symptoms appear.
So we need to talk about anal sex.
Anal sex can be particularly dangerous. The anus is often very sensitive and tears easily, increasing the chance of transmitting certain infections.
Additionally, full anal sex may not be required. You can get an STD in your anus if contaminated bodily fluids come into contact with your anus.
Here are some infections that can cause itching in the anus.
Anal herpes
The herpes simplex virus, commonly known as Herpescan easily infect the anus, especially if an infected man has unprotected anal sex with his partner.
Symptoms of anal herpes may include:
- Itching around the anus 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 is possible to get any of these infections in your anus.
Some people may experience only mild symptoms or may have flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, or muscle aches during the initial outbreak.
Anal gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a highly contagious STD. Most gonorrhea infections are completely asymptomatic. It tends to affect the genitals, as this is the most common point of transmission. However, you can get gonorrhea in many parts of the body, including the mouth and anus.
Symptoms of anal gonorrhea include:
- Anal mucus or discharge
- “Tenesmus” – the feeling of wanting to keep passing stool even though there is nothing left to pass
- Bleeding from the anus
- Itching around the anus
- Painful bowel movements
Anal chlamydia
Like anal gonorrhea, anal Chlamydia it is usually transmitted to the anus through the anus or by contaminated body fluids that come 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 a rectal chlamydia infection include:
- Itching of the anus
- Abnormal rectal discharge
- Pain or soreness around the anus
- Pain during or after a bowel movement
HPV
Some strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause anal warts if the initial HPV infection enters the body through the anus, usually during anal sex.
HPV anal warts are usually painless and do not itch. In rare cases, warts can grow large enough to block 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 spread through prolonged physical contact such as hugging, kissing and having sex with an infected person. It can also be spread by sharing clothes, bedding and through prolonged contact with contaminated surfaces.
Another parasitic infestation that can cause itching in the genitals and anus is pubic lice, which are transmitted through sexual intercourse or contact with infected bedding or clothing.
Symptoms of a scabies infection in the anus may include:
- Itching of the anus
- A rash with reddish or dark brown spots at the site of infection
Other common causes of anal itching
While STDs are a well-known cause of anal itching, there are several other common reasons why someone may 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 such as hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins around the anus, and anal fissures, which are small tears in the skin of the anus, can also cause discomfort and itching.
Other non-STD causes include skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, fungal infections or fungi, 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 looking for relief.
When to seek medical help
If you experience persistent anal itching, or if the itching is accompanied by other symptoms such as unusual discharge, bleeding from the anus, severe pain in the anus, or changes in bowel movements, it is important to seek medical help.
While anal itching can be caused by a variety of factors, including both STDs and non-STD 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 harmless, but it could also be a sign of something more serious.
If you think you may have been exposed to an STD, it’s better get tested as soon as possible. Most STDs are completely curable with the right medication and cause minimal harm to your health if diagnosed early.
Call the number listed above to speak to one of our Sexual Health Consultants.
Don’t leave your sexual health to chance.
This article first appeared on 14/07/2023. Latest update 12/12/2025.
This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Steve Chapman04/08/2025.
