Anodispareunia. Dolor Anal Durante las Relaciones Sexuales Anorreceptivas en Hombres que Tienen Sexo con Hombres

Abstract

Introduction: The perianal region is very rich in sensory nerve endings, which determines that anal erotism is frequent, regardless of sexual identity and sexual orientation. Despite this, the impact of receptive anal sex (RAS) on anal health has been little studied. Some people experience pain during anoreceptive sex. The objectives of this study were to evaluate its prevalence in a sample of men who have sex with men (MSM) resident in Argentina and identify potential factors associated with its appearance.
Design: Descriptive, transversal study.
Population and method: A voluntary and anonymous survey was designed. It included demographic variables and factors related to RAS. It was answered on the Internet between March 2015 and February 2016. MSM over 18 years of age resident in Argentina, who had practiced RAS during the last four weeks, were included. Bivariate and multivariate statistical analyzes were performed in logistic regression models.
Results: Two hundred and eight MSM answered the survey. One hundred and thirty-five (64.9%) who had maintained RAS in the last four weeks were selected for the analysis. 76.3% belonged to the Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires and the Buenos Aires Province. 92.6% had higher education. 88.9% reported that they experienced some level of pain during RAS, being severe in 5.5% of cases. In the bivariate analysis were identified as variables associated with the development of pain: "age", "age of onset of sexual relations in general", "fear of suffering pain", "fisting" and "fear of getting dirty". In the multivariate model, the "age of coming out", the "fear of suffering pain" and the "use of poppers" appeared as possible risk factors. As possible protective factors, "fisting", "outing age", "age" and "age when starting relationships with other men".
Conclusions: This study focused on the anodyspareunia experienced specifically by the male homosexual group in Argentina. 88.9% experienced some level of pain, being severe in 5.5%. As in other studies, possible predisposing factors have been identified in this one; some modifiable and others not. A greater knowledge of the potential influential factors will allow a better advice of health professionals to the affected population on pain prevention and on anal erotism in general.