STD Risks with Monogamous Partners: What You Need to Know

Concern about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) transmission?

Are there typically infectious bacteria or viruses present in the human body (such as papillomavirus)? If both partners have a fixed relationship and their sexual activities are very straightforward, without the use of condoms (such as oral or anal sex), is there a concern about contracting any diseases?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/02

Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine

Hello! This question is difficult to answer simply.
The human body hosts a vast number of bacteria and viruses (such as herpes simplex virus, human papillomavirus, etc.), so unprotected sexual intercourse can indeed lead to the transmission of bacteria and viruses between partners.
However, if both partners have a relatively low-risk sexual history and can confirm that neither has any specific sexually transmitted infections (STIs), there is less concern about transmitting more pathogenic infections such as HIV, syphilis, or gonorrhea.
In summary, unprotected sexual intercourse can facilitate the exchange of viruses and bacteria between partners, so understanding each other's health status is also a way to protect oneself!

Reply Date: 2019/05/02

More Info

When it comes to understanding STD (sexually transmitted disease) risks, especially in the context of a monogamous relationship, it is essential to consider several factors. First, it is important to recognize that many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can exist in individuals without causing any symptoms. This means that even if both partners appear healthy, they may still carry infections that could be transmitted during sexual activity.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a prime example of a virus that can be present in the body without any visible signs. HPV is one of the most common STIs and can lead to serious health issues, including cervical cancer in women and other types of cancer in both men and women. While there are vaccines available to protect against certain strains of HPV, the virus can still be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, which can occur during oral or anal sex, even if penetration does not happen.

In a monogamous relationship where both partners are committed to each other and have not engaged in sexual activities with others, the risk of transmitting STIs is significantly reduced. However, it is not entirely eliminated. If one partner had an STI prior to the relationship, it could still be transmitted to the other partner. Therefore, open communication about sexual health and history is crucial. Both partners should ideally get tested for STIs before becoming sexually active with each other, even if they plan to be monogamous.

Moreover, certain STIs can be transmitted through non-penetrative sexual activities. For example, herpes simplex virus (HSV) can be transmitted through oral sex, and gonorrhea and chlamydia can infect the throat through oral sex as well. Therefore, even if penetration is avoided, there is still a risk of transmission through other forms of sexual contact.

Using protection, such as condoms or dental dams, can significantly reduce the risk of transmitting STIs during oral or anal sex. While these methods are not 100% effective in preventing all STIs, they are highly effective in reducing the risk of transmission for many infections.

In summary, while being in a monogamous relationship with a partner who has not had sexual contact with others reduces the risk of STIs, it does not eliminate it entirely. Regular testing, open communication about sexual health, and the use of protection during sexual activities are essential practices to minimize the risk of STIs. If either partner has concerns about potential exposure to STIs or experiences any symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for testing and guidance.

Similar Q&A

Understanding STD Risks in Monogamous Relationships and Beyond

If two fixed partners have tested negative for HIV and they engage in unprotected sex with different partners within a 24-hour period, there is a risk of contracting HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Engaging in unprotected sex with multiple partners increases ...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Due to the window period for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), it is recommended to adhere to the principles of safe sex. Of course, if both parties can guarantee that they are absolutely free of STIs, then there is no risk of transmission. Low-risk activities incl...

Understanding STI Risks in Monogamous Same-Sex Relationships: Prevention Tips

Hello, doctor. If I have a fixed, monogamous same-sex partner and our sexual life is straightforward, is there still a possibility of contracting HPV, amoebic dysentery, or poliovirus, among other sexually transmitted or fecal-oral transmitted diseases, during sexual intercourse?...

Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
Hello! Partners can transmit existing diseases to each other through sexual intercourse or fecal-oral routes. Therefore, if one partner has HPV or amoebiasis, it is certainly possible to transmit it to the other partner. If both partners are in a monogamous relationship, there wo...

Understanding STIs: Safe Practices for Monogamous Couples

Hello, doctor. If both partners are each other's first and are in a monogamous relationship, does that mean they won't contract sexually transmitted infections (STIs) regardless of whether they engage in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse?

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: As long as both individuals are free of sexually transmitted infections, there is no risk of transmitting STIs. Wishing you good health. However, bacterial infections may still be possible.

Understanding STD Risks in Complicated Relationships: What You Need to Know

I would like to ask about a situation where my girlfriend has a primary boyfriend and is cheating on him. They have a long-distance relationship and meet about once a month. However, she and I live together. If she has sexual intercourse with her boyfriend during that monthly vis...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, if everyone does not have a sexually transmitted infection (STI), then transmission is not possible. May I ask if you are a female and also in a same-sex relationship? Note: I cannot confirm your relationship and gender based on your description. If there are any unclear p...