QUESTION
Is there a danger of E. Coli infection when going from anal to vaginal intercourse without using a condom?

ANSWER
The rectum normally has the germ E-coli inside. E. Coli is one of the normal germs that live in the lower intestinal tract. The vagina can become colonized with E. Coli, as well, but usually that’s for a short time and not a serious problem in and of itself. One concern is the E. Coli can also infect the bladder causing a urinary tract infection. Using a condom during anal sex and changing to a new condom for vaginal sex is one good way to reduce the chance of spreading germs from the rectum. When a partner has infectious hepatitis that can also be spread during anal and vaginal sex. See http://www.sfcityclinic.org/stdbasics/hepatitis.asp for more information.

Persons who have more than 1 partner and don’t regularly use condoms are at risk for STDs. Sexually active persons should know their STD status and get tested regularly. For more information on STD testing, visit http://SFCityClinic.org [SFCityClinic.org] for places in San Francisco, try http://STDTest.org or call the CDC National Hotline for services near you: 1-800-CDC-INFO.

To your health,
Dr. K