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Anal Douching and Microbiome Changes

The relationship between anal douching and changes in the rectal microbiome, including potential risks for STIs and HIV.

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Jan 18, 2026
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What are the proven risks of repeated anal douching documented in medical studies?

Repeated anal douching (rectal douching) has been associated in multiple studies with damage to the rectal mucosa, changes to normal rectal flora, and higher odds of HIV and other sexually transmitted...

Jan 18, 2026

What are the short- and long-term microbiome changes after a single enema or anal douche?

A single anal enema or douche can cause immediate physical changes—mechanical clearing of fecal matter, transient disruption of the mucosal surface and dilution or washout of resident microbes—which i...