Should I Be Worried About STDs After a Recent Encounter?

Q: Should I Be Worried About STDs After a Recent Encounter?

Hello： The following standards should be used to assess risk levels： <br>- No risk： masturbation <br>- Low risk： mutual masturbation, light kissing, mutual rubbing, sexual intercourse with condom <br>- Moderate risk： deep kissing, oral sex, withdrawal method <br>- High risk：

Should I be concerned about getting sick?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask you about an encounter I had last night with a female online friend.
We kissed, and I also sucked and licked her nipples.
After that, I fingered her (without wearing gloves), but my fingers did not have any visible wounds.
During intercourse, I used a condom the entire time, but she mentioned that she has had multiple sexual encounters (I’m not sure if she has any infections), so I am worried about whether I could contract any diseases through kissing or sucking and licking her nipples, or if the virus could enter through the gaps between my fingernails and skin during fingering.
I am also concerned about whether the condom might have been damaged or expired, or if any secretions came into contact with other areas, which makes me anxious that even though I used a condom during penetration, there could still be a risk.
After finishing, I removed the condom and rinsed my genital area, but I am worried that touching the condom and then cleaning my penis could lead to an infection (I put on the condom only after fingering, and I’m afraid that before putting on the condom, I might have accidentally exchanged bodily fluids).

1.
Is there a risk of contracting STDs or HIV from the activities described above?
2.
If the other person's bodily fluids came into contact with other areas of my body, such as my scrotum, is there a risk of infection?
3.
I have been feeling anxious and physically unwell due to my worries.
Should I be concerned or seek medical attention for my situation?

Mr. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/06

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: The following standards should be used to assess risk levels:
- No risk: masturbation
- Low risk: mutual masturbation, light kissing, mutual rubbing, sexual intercourse with condom
- Moderate risk: deep kissing, oral sex, withdrawal method
- High risk: unprotected sex, causing wounds or bleeding
1) Any activity that is not considered safe sex carries some risk.

2) The chances are low.

3) If you are concerned, get tested; if you feel fine, wait for three months before getting tested for STIs.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2019/07/06

More Info

When it comes to concerns about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) after a recent encounter, it's important to understand the risks associated with different types of sexual activities. Based on your description, you engaged in several intimate acts, including kissing, oral stimulation, and manual stimulation (fingering), followed by penetrative intercourse using a condom. Let's break down your concerns and provide some clarity.

1. Risk of STDs from Kissing and Oral Stimulation: Kissing is generally considered a low-risk activity for transmitting STDs, including HIV. However, if either partner has open sores or bleeding gums, there is a slight risk of transmission of certain infections, such as herpes. Oral stimulation (like licking or sucking) can also pose a risk for infections such as herpes, gonorrhea, or syphilis, especially if there are cuts or abrasions in the mouth or on the partner's body.

2. Fingering and Potential for Infection: Fingering without gloves does carry a risk, particularly if your fingers have any cuts or abrasions. However, the risk of transmitting HIV through this method is extremely low, especially if there is no direct contact with blood or open sores. The concern about bodily fluids entering through the spaces between your nails and skin is minimal, but it is still advisable to maintain good hygiene and avoid any potential exposure to infected fluids.

3. Condom Use and Its Importance: Using a condom during penetrative intercourse significantly reduces the risk of transmitting STDs, including HIV. However, it's crucial to ensure that the condom is intact and not expired. If there was any doubt about the integrity of the condom, it’s wise to monitor for any symptoms of STDs in the following weeks.

4. Contact with Body Fluids: If the partner's bodily fluids came into contact with your skin, such as on the scrotum or other areas, the risk of transmission is still low, especially if there are no open wounds or sores. HIV is primarily transmitted through direct contact with mucous membranes or through blood.

5. Anxiety and Physical Symptoms: It's common to feel anxious after a sexual encounter, especially if there are uncertainties about your partner's sexual health. Anxiety can manifest physically, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, muscle tension, or gastrointestinal discomfort. If these symptoms persist, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare provider for both physical and mental health support.

6. Testing and Follow-Up: Given your concerns, it would be prudent to get tested for STDs, including HIV. Most health professionals recommend testing at least 2-4 weeks after potential exposure, with follow-up testing at 3 months for conclusive results. Many STDs can be asymptomatic, so testing is the best way to ensure your health and peace of mind.

In summary, while there are some risks associated with the activities you described, the use of a condom during intercourse significantly mitigates the risk of STD transmission. If you are feeling anxious or experiencing physical symptoms, consider seeking medical advice and getting tested for STDs. Remember, practicing safe sex and regular testing are key components of maintaining sexual health.

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