Male Intimacy & Reproductive Health

How ARM may affect the body
Nerve and muscle development: The nerves that control bowel, bladder, and sexual
function, and the muscles themselves, may develop differently in people with ARM. This can affect sensation, control, or how the body responds to certain signals.
Surgery or scar tissue: Scar tissue from surgery or naturally tight muscles around the
bowel, bladder, or genital area can change how the muscles move or feel. This can
sometimes make activities like toileting, erections, or sexual development feel different.
Pelvic structure differences: These may influence bladder control, erections, or ejaculation.

Sexual Health and Fertility
It’s normal to have questions about:

• Sexual development and function.

• Erections

• Ejaculation

• Sensation

• Confidence in sexual situations

These concerns are common and often manageable with medical support. Fertility may be affected in some individuals, but early advice and assessment can help.

Possible Medical Complications
ARM can be associated with urinary and reproductive issues, including infections such as epididymo-orchitis.
Potential long-term effects:

• Recurrent infections

• Scarring or fibrosis

• Reduced sperm transport

• Subfertility or infertility

 

Treatment focuses on underlying causes, including:

• Correcting structural issues (e.g. fistulas)

• Managing bladder function (including neurogenic bladder)

• Preventing urine reflux or obstruction

 

Ongoing specialist follow-up is important to:

• Monitor reproductive health

• Assess fertility (e.g. semen analysis)

• Treat sexual dysfunction early

• Provide fertility counselling and support

Early recognition and treatment can significantly improve long-term sexual health, fertility, and overall quality of life.

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Further information:
Sexual Health Resource for ARM & Hirschsprung’s
A dedicated online support website developed for individuals with ARM and related conditions addressing intimacy, sexuality, and quality-of-life concerns. https://www.sexuality-arm-hd.com/

Max’s Trust
A UK charity providing support, information, and community for adults, children, and families affected by anorectal malformations. Offering networking opportunities, events, and access to specialist expertise.

https://www.maxtrust.org/

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ERN eUROGEN-Anorectal Malformation - Patient Journey

https://eurogen-ern.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/ERN-eUROGEN-Patient-Journey-for-ARM-2024-v-2024-10-28.pdf