Relation between reported anal-genital discharge and unprotected same sexual intercourse in Uganda

Thomas Muyunga, Gerald Sebulime, David Okimait, George Oryongatum, Tibiihwa John

Introduction: The unanimous perception that unprotected anal sexual intercourse is not a mode of HIV/STIs transmission is pervasive among same sex practicing persons. Information that clearly points out transmission is reflecting heterosexual penile-vaginal modes. The sexual practices of Ugandans should be the bedrock of information, education and communication on sexuality, orientation, gender identity and health. This report shows the frequent recurrence of anal, vaginal and penile discharges as presented by same sex practicing persons in Uganda. This study was limited to sexual negotiating skills, knowledge, perception and HIV/AIDS issues.


Methods: 100 cases aged 15 years to 52 years at 24 safe spaces in Mpigi, Kabale, Entebbe, Mukono, Mbarara, Masaka, Kampala and Wakiso were followed for 12 months in 2009-2010. Treatment and counseling records, anecdotal recollections, referral of sexual network partners and desk review of literature show that experimenting in anal sex, early same sex sexual debut and lack of information to influence cautionary lifestyles is pervasive for all 100 cases.


Results: 58 males aged 15-23 years complained of urethral discharge and 4 females complained of vaginal discharge. 12 males had anal complaints including itching sensation around the anus and lower abdominal areas. Laboratory examination showed Neisseria gonnorhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis as causative organisms. 38 were aged 25-52 years and these were referred as a result of partner notification. 62 aged between 15-23 years had frequently practiced unprotected same sex sexual intercourse at ages below 18 years. 38 had more than one partner and 22 of these had frequent un protected same sex sexual intercourse. 72 believed anal sexual intercourse is not a route of HIV/STIs infection.


Conclusion: Sexuality literature and discourses that mention homosexuality and heterosexuality should be presented in the same breath to improve negotiation and decisions for protected safer sex sexual intercourse. Information, education and communication clearly outlining various modes of transmission will influence safer sex practices, earlier diagnosis and disclosure issues for infected persons seeking treatment. Discordance issues that may arise are dealt with in time. Other underlying HIV related infections are treated in time.