STD Risks: Can You Contract HSV-1 and Chlamydia Indirectly?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), herpes issues?

Hello Doctor, three weeks ago I had sexual intercourse with a man who recently underwent STI testing and was found to be completely healthy.
However, another woman who had sexual relations with him also got tested and confirmed positive for HSV-1 and Chlamydia (they had intercourse before I was with him).
I had unprotected sex with that man, but I did not perform oral sex on him.
I would like to know what the likelihood is of me being indirectly infected.
Even though the man is healthy, is it possible for me to contract the virus from that woman? If I wait until December to return to Taiwan for testing, what impact could that have? I currently do not have any obvious symptoms, but I understand that symptoms can be subtle and may not be detected, so I am quite worried about the situation.
I know that seeking medical testing is the most direct approach, but since I am currently abroad, I am unsure how to handle these matters.
I hope the doctor can help me.
Thank you very much for your response and for reading this.

taiwanese, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/18

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, as you mentioned, direct testing is indeed the most effective way to confirm the situation.
However, if environmental factors temporarily prevent testing, theoretically, if that male individual is not infected, you would not have any recommendations.
You can continue to monitor his symptoms and test results to assess your risk of infection.
However, if that individual is unable or unwilling to get tested, it is advisable to consider yourself as part of a high-risk group and get tested sooner.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2020/10/18

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks associated with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), particularly herpes simplex virus (HSV) and chlamydia, it is essential to clarify how these infections are transmitted and the implications of potential exposure.

Firstly, regarding your concern about contracting HSV-1 and chlamydia indirectly, it is important to note that HSV-1 is primarily transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact, particularly during oral, vaginal, or anal sex. If you engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse with a partner who is not symptomatic and has tested negative for STDs, the likelihood of contracting HSV-1 from that individual is relatively low. However, if the female partner of your male partner tested positive for HSV-1, it is crucial to understand that transmission typically requires direct contact with an infected area or fluid. Since you did not engage in oral sex with your male partner, the risk of indirect transmission from him to you is minimal.

Chlamydia, on the other hand, is also transmitted through direct sexual contact. If your male partner tested negative for chlamydia, it is unlikely that you contracted the infection from him. However, if he had sexual contact with the infected female partner before your encounter, there is a theoretical risk of transmission if he had not been tested or treated prior to your sexual encounter. The absence of symptoms does not rule out the possibility of infection, as many individuals with chlamydia are asymptomatic.

Regarding your question about waiting until December to get tested, it is generally advisable to get tested sooner rather than later if you have concerns about potential exposure to STDs. The incubation period for chlamydia is usually about one to three weeks, while HSV can take longer to show up in tests. If you wait until December, you may be extending your anxiety and uncertainty. Testing sooner can provide peace of mind and allow for timely treatment if necessary.

If you are currently asymptomatic, it is still wise to monitor your health closely. Symptoms of chlamydia can include abnormal discharge, burning during urination, and pelvic pain, while symptoms of HSV can include sores or blisters in the genital area, itching, or flu-like symptoms during an outbreak. However, many individuals may not exhibit symptoms, which is why regular testing is crucial for sexually active individuals.

In summary, while the risk of contracting HSV-1 and chlamydia indirectly in your situation appears low, it is essential to remain vigilant about your sexual health. If you have any concerns or experience any symptoms, seeking medical advice and getting tested as soon as possible is the best course of action. Regular screenings and open communication with sexual partners about STDs can significantly reduce the risk of transmission and help maintain overall sexual health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Chlamydia Infection Risks and Prevention in Urology

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if there is a risk of contracting HIV if a male genitalia only touches the external genitalia of a female, particularly near the urethral opening, without any penetration into the vagina. I feel like I might have contracted Chlamydia; is it true ...

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology
Any contact involving sexual organs and bodily fluids carries the risk of infection; using a condom beforehand is more effective than washing afterward.

Can You Get STDs from Indirect Contact? Understanding the Risks

Engaging in mutual touching of genitalia and buttocks, as well as brief contact between the genitals, carries a risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV and other infections such as genital warts (caused by HPV). However, the risk of HIV transmission is signi...

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology
Hello, sir: The probability of indirect contact transmission is low, but if there are small unnoticed skin abrasions, there is still a chance of coming into contact with pathogens. - Dr. Chen Jian-sheng, Urology Department, Xinying Hospital.

Understanding the Risk of Chlamydia Infection in Urological Health

Hello, doctor. (Using condoms and lubricant) 1. I would like to ask if two individuals with a 100% guarantee of not having genital warts can still potentially contract them? 2. If male-to-male sexual activity occurs, does the likelihood of the first question change?

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology
Please seek medical attention.

Understanding STD Risks: Key Questions for Safe Sexual Practices

Doctor, I would like to ask some questions (I am male and have no sexual experience). I previously had contact with a sex worker and used a condom throughout (assuming the woman has HPV, genital herpes, or syphilis). I have five questions! 1. If neither party has skin lesions, ...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1. If both parties have no skin wounds and there is mutual contact between the groin areas, is there a chance that I could contract warts, herpes, or syphilis? --> There is still a possibility, but it is much lower than if there were wounds. 2. Following up on the pr...