HIV Risks: Safe Practices and Wound Visibility

Q: HIV Risks: Safe Practices and Wound Visibility

Dear readers： Regarding the question, "If both vaginal and oral intercourse were performed with a condom, but then the condom was removed for manual stimulation without a condom, and the woman's hand came into contact with her vaginal fluid, is there a risk of contracting HIV? Al

Safety issues

If both vaginal and oral intercourse were performed with a condom, but the condom was removed during manual stimulation without a condom and the person's hand came into contact with vaginal fluids, is there a risk of contracting HIV? Also, can wounds on the penis be visibly detected, or are there some wounds that may not be visible to the naked eye?

An An, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/25

Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine

Dear readers: Regarding the question, "If both vaginal and oral intercourse were performed with a condom, but then the condom was removed for manual stimulation without a condom, and the woman's hand came into contact with her vaginal fluid, is there a risk of contracting HIV? Also, can wounds on the penis be visibly detected, or are some wounds not visible to the naked eye?"
A: 1.
If ejaculation occurs externally, the risk is lower; however, if there are bleeding wounds, the risk increases.
2.
If there is pain during penetration or washing, it indicates the presence of a wound, and safe sexual practices should be followed.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2016/05/25

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks of HIV transmission, it is crucial to consider various factors, including the type of sexual activity, the presence of bodily fluids, and the condition of the skin, particularly if there are any wounds involved.
In your scenario, you mentioned that both anal and oral sex were performed with a condom, which is a significant protective measure against HIV transmission. Condoms are highly effective in preventing the exchange of bodily fluids, including vaginal secretions that may contain the virus. However, you expressed concern about the risk of transmission when you removed the condom and engaged in manual stimulation, especially since the other person's hand may have come into contact with vaginal fluids.

1. Risk of HIV Transmission: If you engaged in hand stimulation after removing the condom, the risk of HIV transmission is generally considered low, especially if there were no visible wounds on your penis. HIV is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk. The likelihood of transmission through vaginal secretions on a hand is significantly lower than through penetrative sex, especially if there are no open wounds or cuts on your penis.
2. Visibility of Wounds: Regarding the visibility of wounds on the penis, it is essential to understand that not all wounds are easily visible. Some injuries may be microscopic or located in areas that are not easily seen. For example, small abrasions or cuts can occur during sexual activity, and they may not be apparent without close inspection. If you have any concerns about potential injuries, it is advisable to conduct a thorough examination or consult a healthcare professional for an evaluation.

3. General Recommendations: To minimize the risk of HIV transmission in any sexual encounter, it is advisable to:
- Use condoms consistently and correctly for all forms of sexual activity.

- Avoid contact with bodily fluids, especially if there are any visible wounds or cuts.

- Get tested regularly for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, especially if you have multiple partners or engage in high-risk behaviors.

- Communicate openly with your partner about sexual health and STI status.

4. Conclusion: In summary, while the risk of HIV transmission in your described scenario is low, it is not entirely zero, particularly if there are unrecognized wounds. It is always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice if you have concerns about potential exposure to HIV or other STIs. Regular testing and practicing safe sex are key components in maintaining sexual health and preventing the spread of infections. If you experience any symptoms or have further concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice and testing.

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