Risks of Kissing and Oral Contact: A Urology Perspective

Q: Risks of Kissing and Oral Contact: A Urology Perspective

Hello： There was contact with bodily fluids, but a condom was used during intercourse → Generally considered low to moderate risk. <br>No risk activities include masturbation; low risk activities include mutual masturbation, light kissing, mutual rubbing, and condom-protected sex

Kissing without protection during sexual intercourse?

Yesterday, I went out for tea.
Doctor, I used a condom during oral and sexual intercourse, but I had unprotected contact when I was rejected and kissed (I have a sore in my mouth).
My lips touched, but my tongue did not make contact; however, my tongue was extended but blocked by my teeth.
What are the risks associated with this, and what should I be aware of? Thank you for your response, Doctor.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/12

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: There was contact with bodily fluids, but a condom was used during intercourse → Generally considered low to moderate risk.
No risk activities include masturbation; low risk activities include mutual masturbation, light kissing, mutual rubbing, and condom-protected sexual activities; moderate risk activities include deep kissing, oral sex, and withdrawal before ejaculation; high risk activities include unprotected sexual intercourse that causes wounds or bleeding.
It is recommended to get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) three months later.
Wishing you good health.
Currently, if you have urinary symptoms, genital blisters that have burst, rashes, or any growths, you should seek medical attention.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/08/12

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks associated with kissing and oral contact, especially in the context of potential sexually transmitted infections (STIs), it's essential to consider several factors, including the nature of the contact, the presence of any injuries, and the health status of both partners.

In your situation, you mentioned that you engaged in oral sex while using a condom, which significantly reduces the risk of transmitting STIs during that specific act. However, you also noted that there was kissing involved, and you had a cut or sore on your lips. This is where the risk assessment becomes more nuanced.

Kissing and Oral Contact Risks
1. Kissing: Kissing, especially deep or passionate kissing, can potentially transmit infections such as herpes simplex virus (HSV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and even some strains of human papillomavirus (HPV). If you have a cut or sore on your lips, this could increase the risk of transmission if the other person has an active infection, particularly HSV. The virus can be present in saliva, and if it comes into contact with an open wound, there is a possibility of infection.

2. Oral Sex: Using a condom during oral sex significantly reduces the risk of transmitting STIs. However, if there was any contact between your mouth and the partner's genital area without a condom, there could be a risk of transmission of infections such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, or syphilis, especially if there are any sores or cuts in the mouth.

3. Sore on the Lips: The presence of a sore or cut on your lips is a critical factor. If the sore is due to a condition like herpes, and the other person has an active herpes infection, the risk of transmission increases. It's important to monitor the sore for any signs of infection and consult a healthcare provider if you notice any concerning symptoms.

Recommendations
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any symptoms that may develop in the days or weeks following the encounter. Symptoms of STIs can vary widely but may include sores, unusual discharge, or flu-like symptoms.

- Testing: If you are concerned about potential exposure to STIs, it is advisable to get tested. Many STIs can be asymptomatic, so regular testing is crucial, especially after new sexual encounters. Testing for STIs can typically be done 2-3 weeks after exposure for some infections, but for others, such as HIV, it may be recommended to wait up to three months for conclusive results.

- Communication: If you have ongoing sexual partners, open communication about sexual health and STI testing is vital. Both partners should be aware of their STI status to make informed decisions about protection and risk.

- Preventive Measures: In the future, consider using barriers (like dental dams for oral sex) to further reduce the risk of STI transmission during oral contact. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding contact during outbreaks of oral herpes can help minimize risks.

Conclusion
In summary, while the use of a condom during oral sex significantly reduces the risk of STI transmission, kissing with a sore on your lips does carry some risk, particularly if the other person has an active infection. Monitoring your health, getting tested, and practicing safe sex are essential steps in protecting yourself and your partners from STIs. If you have any specific concerns or symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and care.

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