A Gut Infection Transmitted Through Sexual Contact
Shigella is a highly infectious gut bacteria increasingly transmitted sexually, particularly among men who have sex with men. It causes severe diarrhoea and requires antibiotic treatment.
Shigellosis is a bacterial infection of the intestines caused by Shigella bacteria. While traditionally a foodborne illness, sexual transmission - particularly through oral-anal contact - has become increasingly recognised, especially among men who have sex with men. Shigella is highly infectious; very few bacteria can cause illness. Antibiotic-resistant strains are a growing concern.
Diagnosis is confirmed by stool culture, which also enables antibiotic sensitivity testing (important due to rising resistance). PCR testing can provide faster results. If you have diarrhoea with sexual risk factors, inform us so appropriate testing is performed. You may be asked about recent travel and sexual contacts.
While many cases resolve without antibiotics, treatment shortens illness and reduces spread - important given high transmissibility. Antibiotic choice depends on sensitivity testing due to widespread resistance. Ciprofloxacin or azithromycin are often used. Stay hydrated. Avoid sex and food preparation until 48 hours after symptoms resolve.
Shigella spreads through the faecal-oral route. In sexual contexts, this occurs through rimming (oral-anal contact), anal fingering followed by oral contact, handling condoms after anal sex, or any activity where traces of faeces reach the mouth. The bacteria are extremely infectious - just 10-100 organisms can cause illness.
Shigella has developed resistance to many antibiotics globally. This means treatment may not work first time, and laboratory sensitivity testing is important. Resistant shigella has been found in sexual networks. Using the right antibiotic (guided by testing) helps ensure cure and reduces further resistance development.
You can spread shigella from when symptoms start until at least 48 hours after diarrhoea stops. Some people remain infectious longer, especially if immunocompromised. Avoid sex and food preparation during this time. Good hand hygiene is essential. Some public health guidelines recommend avoiding sex for a week after symptoms resolve.
Yes, previous infection provides limited immunity and you can be reinfected with the same or different Shigella strains. If you continue activities that risk exposure, reinfection is possible. Preventive measures remain important even after you've had shigellosis. Consider how to reduce transmission during sexual activity.
Book a confidential consultation or STI test at our South Kensington clinic. Walk-in appointments available.
At STI Clinic, our GPs and nurses are highly trained in sexual health and general medicine. We are committed to delivering confidential, non-judgemental care in a safe and supportive environment.
Our clinicians are fully registered and regulated to practise in the United Kingdom. We adhere strictly to national clinical standards and professional guidelines because patient safety, governance, and trust are non-negotiable.
Providing rapid and reliable sexual health diagnostics with dual-access pathways. Located in central London, we offer a professional environment with immediate walk-in care or pre-scheduled bookings.
Real reviews from our South Kensington clinic. We take pride in our professional medical staff and rapid diagnostic turnaround.
"Absolutely fantastic service. I was very nervous about the blood draw, but Nurse Luciana was so professional and gentle. She made the whole process painless. Results came back via secure email in 24 hours. Best clinic in South Kensington."
"Discreet, professional, and efficient. I walked in for an STI screening and was seen almost immediately. Luciana is an expert - she handled the blood test perfectly. Total peace of mind."
"High-quality clinical environment. Nurse Luciana is an absolute star; she explained everything clearly and made me feel at ease during the blood tests. 5-star care."