the Risks of HIV Transmission Through Kissing

Q: the Risks of HIV Transmission Through Kissing

Hello： You may refer to the following risk levels regarding sexual activities if the partner has an infectious disease： <br>- Low risk： masturbation <br>- Low risk： mutual masturbation, light kissing, mutual rubbing, sexual intercourse with condom use <br>- Moderate risk： deep

The probability of being infected is quite high?

I would like to ask, yesterday I engaged with a sex worker.
I have a mouth ulcer (caused by excessive heat, lasting about 3 days, no bleeding).
However, I accidentally engaged in deep kissing with the sex worker.
If the partner is HIV positive, what is the likelihood of me being infected? (I used a condom for intercourse but had unprotected oral sex, with only deep kissing involved).
Thank you, doctor.

leo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/27

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: You may refer to the following risk levels regarding sexual activities if the partner has an infectious disease:
- Low risk: masturbation
- Low risk: mutual masturbation, light kissing, mutual rubbing, sexual intercourse with condom use
- Moderate risk: deep kissing, oral sex, withdrawal method
- High risk: no protective measures, resulting in wounds or bleeding
https://www.cdc.gov.tw/File/Get/ZTz2fTlh4Yw_QhF94gqU3A

Reply Date: 2024/02/27

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks of HIV transmission through kissing, it's important to consider several factors, including the nature of the kiss, the presence of any oral wounds, and the HIV status of the partner involved.

In your situation, you mentioned that you have a sore in your mouth (which you described as a "mouth sore" or "fire") but without any bleeding, and that you engaged in deep kissing with a sex worker. The risk of HIV transmission through kissing is generally considered to be very low, especially if there are no open wounds or bleeding involved. However, deep kissing can potentially pose a risk if there are cuts or sores in the mouth that could allow for the exchange of blood or other bodily fluids.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HIV is primarily transmitted through three main routes: unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. Kissing, particularly light or gentle kissing, does not typically fall into these high-risk categories. However, deep kissing, especially if it involves vigorous sucking or biting that could break the skin, may increase the risk slightly.

In your case, since you mentioned that you engaged in protected sexual intercourse (using a condom) and only had unprotected oral sex, the risk of HIV transmission from those activities is also relatively low. Oral sex does carry some risk, but it is significantly lower than anal or vaginal intercourse. The presence of a mouth sore could theoretically increase the risk if the sex worker were HIV positive, but without any bleeding, the risk remains low.

It's also worth noting that the window period for HIV testing is crucial. After potential exposure, it can take several weeks for the body to produce detectable antibodies to the virus. Most tests can accurately detect HIV infection within 2 to 6 weeks after exposure, but some tests can take longer. If you are concerned about potential exposure, it is advisable to get tested for HIV after the appropriate window period, typically around 3 months for conclusive results.

In summary, while there is a theoretical risk of HIV transmission through deep kissing, especially if there are oral wounds, the overall risk remains low. Engaging in protected sexual activities significantly reduces the risk of HIV transmission. If you have concerns about your health or potential exposure to HIV, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and testing. Regular testing and open communication with partners about sexual health are essential components of maintaining sexual health and preventing the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

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