Can Masturbation Lead to STDs Like HPV or Syphilis?

Q: Can Masturbation Lead to STDs Like HPV or Syphilis?

Hello： If there is no skin contact, there is no risk. <br>Please refer to the following. <br><br>- **No-risk sexual activities (harmless affectionate ways)**： These include light kissing, masturbation, hugging, massage, mutual caressing, and touching areas other than the genitals

Sexually transmitted disease issues related to masturbation?

Can I get genital warts or syphilis from masturbation? Recently, I met a female online friend who helped me with masturbation (my underwear was not removed, but I am worried that she may have pathogens on her hands that could lead to infection).
Thank you for your response, doctor.
😔

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/16

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: If there is no skin contact, there is no risk.
Please refer to the following.

- No-risk sexual activities (harmless affectionate ways): These include light kissing, masturbation, hugging, massage, mutual caressing, and touching areas other than the genitals.

- Low-risk sexual activities: These include mutual masturbation, mutual rubbing, deep kissing, bondage, protected deep foreplay, oral sex with condoms or dental dams, anal intercourse, and vaginal intercourse.

- Moderate-risk sexual activities: These include withdrawal (pulling out), sharing sex toys, unprotected deep foreplay, oral sex before ejaculation, and oral sex during menstruation.

- High-risk sexual activities: These include unprotected anal intercourse, vaginal intercourse, oral sex during menstruation, retaining semen in the mouth, sharing needles, syringes, and bleeding during sexual activity.

Reply Date: 2020/01/16

More Info

Masturbation itself does not directly lead to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HPV (human papillomavirus) or syphilis. STDs are primarily transmitted through sexual contact, which includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex. However, there are some important considerations regarding your concern about potential transmission through hand contact during masturbation.

When it comes to HPV, it is important to note that this virus is primarily spread through skin-to-skin contact, particularly during sexual activities. If a person has HPV on their hands (for example, if they have warts or lesions caused by HPV), there is a theoretical risk of transmission if those hands come into contact with another person's genital area. However, the likelihood of transmission in this manner is considered low, especially if there are no visible lesions or warts present on the hands.

As for syphilis, it is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum and is typically transmitted through direct contact with syphilis sores during sexual activity. If the person who performed the hand stimulation had syphilis sores on their hands (which is rare), there could be a risk of transmission. However, this scenario is also quite uncommon.

In your case, since you mentioned that your underwear was not removed during the act, the risk of contracting an STD through hand contact is significantly reduced. The primary concern would be if there were any cuts or open wounds on your skin that could allow for the entry of pathogens, but again, this is not a common route of transmission for STDs.

If you are feeling anxious about potential exposure to STDs, it is advisable to get tested. Regular testing is a good practice, especially if you have concerns about exposure to STDs. Many STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning that individuals may not show symptoms but can still transmit the infection to others. Testing can help provide peace of mind and ensure that any potential infections are identified and treated promptly.

In summary, while masturbation itself does not lead to STDs, the context in which it occurs can influence the risk of transmission. If you have concerns about potential exposure to HPV, syphilis, or any other STDs, consider consulting a healthcare provider for appropriate testing and guidance. They can provide you with the most accurate information based on your specific situation and help you understand the best steps to take for your sexual health.

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