STD Risks and Testing After Safe Sex Practices

Q: STD Risks and Testing After Safe Sex Practices

Hello： After examination, there is no need for concern. <br>According to the following classification of sexual behavior risk levels, the low-risk activities include masturbation, hugging, and touching areas other than the genitals; low-risk activities include mutual masturbation

Sexually transmitted infection (STI) transmission issues?

Hello, doctor.
Three months ago, I had sexual intercourse with my girlfriend.
Neither of us was each other's first.
We used a condom during penetration, and she has since been tested for high-risk HPV, which came back negative.
Her Pap smear results were also normal.
Today, three months later, I got tested for HIV and syphilis, and both results were negative.
I currently have no discomfort, but I am a bit worried about the possibility of other STDs.
Should I consider paying for additional tests? Also, since we kissed, do I need to get any extra tests for oral infections? Am I being overly cautious? Thank you for your clarification!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/07

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: After examination, there is no need for concern.
According to the following classification of sexual behavior risk levels, the low-risk activities include masturbation, hugging, and touching areas other than the genitals; low-risk activities include mutual masturbation, light kissing, mutual rubbing, and sexual intercourse with condom use; moderate-risk activities include deep kissing, oral sex, and withdrawal method; high-risk activities include unprotected intercourse and intercourse that causes wounds or bleeding.

Reply Date: 2023/02/07

More Info

It's great to hear that you are being proactive about your sexual health. Based on the information you've provided, it sounds like you have taken several important steps to minimize your risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and to ensure your health following your sexual encounter.

First, let's address the use of condoms. Using condoms consistently and correctly is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of STIs, including HIV. In your case, since you used a condom during penetrative sex and both you and your partner have undergone testing for certain STIs (like HPV and HIV), your risk of transmission for those specific infections is significantly lowered. The fact that your partner tested negative for high-risk HPV and had a normal Pap smear is reassuring, as these tests are crucial for detecting potential issues related to cervical cancer.

Regarding your concern about other STIs, it's important to note that while condoms greatly reduce the risk of many STIs, they do not provide 100% protection against all infections, particularly those that can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, such as herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV). However, since your partner has been tested and found to be negative for high-risk HPV, the risk of transmission from that encounter is low.

As for your recent tests for HIV and syphilis, receiving negative results is a positive sign. However, it's worth noting that some STIs can take time to show up on tests. For example, chlamydia and gonorrhea can sometimes be asymptomatic, so if you have concerns about these infections, it may be wise to consider additional testing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners or new partners, get tested regularly for STIs.

Regarding your question about oral sex and kissing, while the risk of transmitting STIs through kissing is generally low, it is not zero. Certain infections, such as herpes simplex virus (HSV), can be transmitted through oral contact. If you or your partner have any sores or symptoms in the mouth, it would be prudent to discuss this with a healthcare provider. If you have concerns about oral STIs, you might consider getting tested for oral herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2) and other relevant infections.

In summary, while your current testing results are reassuring, if you have ongoing concerns or if you engage in sexual activities with new partners, it may be beneficial to have regular screenings for STIs. Additionally, if you experience any symptoms or have specific concerns about your sexual health, don't hesitate to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your sexual history and risk factors. Remember, open communication with your partner about sexual health and testing is also key to maintaining a healthy sexual relationship.

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