Can you contract a sexually transmitted infection (STI) from oral sex?
Hello doctor, on November 24th, I went to Tainan with friends and was taken to a half-service establishment (it was my first time).
Inside, the services included body and anal licking (there were no obvious external bleeding injuries on my body, just some minor abrasions from friction in the groin area).
It seemed like there was a protective sticker on my anus, so it wasn't touched.
Halfway through, I felt something was off and went to wash my body.
Prior to this, I had never had any intimate contact with any girl.
I would like to understand the likelihood of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) in this situation, and if there are any symptoms I should be aware of in the coming days.
Thank you!
Xiao Zhou, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/11/29
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello:
Low-risk activities include masturbation; moderate-risk activities include mutual masturbation, light kissing, mutual rubbing, and protected sexual intercourse with condoms; moderate-risk activities include deep kissing, oral sex, and withdrawal (coitus interruptus); high-risk activities involve unprotected sexual intercourse, which can lead to injuries or bleeding, typically resulting in skin redness, rashes, abrasions, or unusual growths (newly developed bumps).
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2018/11/29
More Info
When considering the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) from a half-service experience, it’s essential to understand the nature of the activities involved and the associated risks. Based on the details you've provided, it seems that your encounter involved some level of physical contact, including body licking and potential skin abrasions.
1. Risk of STDs: The risk of contracting STDs from such activities can vary. Generally, the transmission of STDs occurs through direct contact with infected bodily fluids (such as semen, vaginal secretions, or blood) or through mucous membranes. In your case, since there was no direct genital-to-genital contact and the anal area was reportedly protected, the risk of transmission is lower compared to unprotected sexual intercourse. However, there are still some risks to consider:
- Oral STDs: If the person performing the service had an oral STD, there is a possibility of transmission through oral contact, although this risk is generally lower than that of penetrative sex.
- Skin-to-Skin Contact: Certain STDs, such as herpes or human papillomavirus (HPV), can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, even if there are no visible sores or lesions. If there was any contact with areas that may have been infected, there is a potential risk.
- Abrasions: You mentioned minor abrasions from friction. While these are not significant wounds, any break in the skin can increase the risk of infection if there is contact with infected fluids.
2. Symptoms to Watch For: After potential exposure to STDs, symptoms can vary widely depending on the specific infection. Common early symptoms of STDs may include:
- Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina
- Burning sensation during urination
- Itching or irritation in the genital area
- Sores or blisters in the genital area or mouth
- Flu-like symptoms (fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes)
- Rashes or skin lesions
It's important to note that many STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning you might not experience any noticeable symptoms even if you are infected.
3. Testing Recommendations: Given your concerns, it is advisable to get tested for STDs. The timing of testing can be crucial:
- Initial Testing: It is generally recommended to wait at least 1-2 weeks after potential exposure for initial testing, as some infections may not be detectable immediately.
- Follow-Up Testing: For certain STDs, such as HIV, it is recommended to get tested again at 3 months post-exposure to ensure accurate results, as some infections may take time to show up in tests.
4. Preventive Measures: Moving forward, consider using protection, such as condoms, during any sexual activity to significantly reduce the risk of STDs. Regular screenings and open communication with partners about sexual health can also help in maintaining safety.
In conclusion, while the risk of contracting an STD from your described experience may be lower compared to other forms of sexual activity, it is not zero. Monitoring for symptoms and seeking testing will provide clarity and peace of mind. If you have any further concerns or experience any symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and care.
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