Can Urinal Splashing Transmit STDs? Your Health Concerns

Urinary issues?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if getting splashed by the water from a urinal on my genital area while using the restroom can transmit sexually transmitted infections or HIV? Additionally, I have been feeling warm at times when lying on the bed, but I don't feel that way when the air conditioning is on.
However, my body temperature is around 36.7 to 36.6 degrees Celsius; does that count as a low-grade fever? Thank you.

Lok, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/27

Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine

1.
First, the definition of fever is a temperature greater than 37.5°C, and high fever is defined as greater than 38.3°C; however, it often varies from person to person, so comparing to one's own baseline is more accurate.

2.
Generally, the water used to flush a urinal is not contaminated; at most, it is groundwater.
If splashed and it causes psychological discomfort, it is advisable to rinse it off slightly and then dry it.

Reply Date: 2024/04/27

More Info

When it comes to the concern about urinal splashing potentially transmitting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), it's important to understand the mechanisms of how STDs are transmitted. STDs, including HIV, are primarily spread through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The risk of transmission through splashing urine is extremely low.
Urine is typically sterile when it leaves the body, meaning it does not contain pathogens that cause STDs. However, if there are pathogens present in the urine due to a urinary tract infection (UTI) or another condition, the risk of transmission still remains minimal. The primary concern would be if there were open sores or cuts in the genital area that could come into contact with infected fluids. In general, the likelihood of contracting an STD from urine splashing is negligible.

Regarding your second concern about feeling warm while lying on the bed but not when using air conditioning, this could be related to several factors. The sensation of warmth could be due to environmental factors, such as the temperature of the room, humidity, or even your body’s response to lying down. It’s also possible that your body is reacting to the heat in a way that makes you feel warmer when you are not in a cooler environment.
As for your body temperature readings of 36.6 to 36.7 degrees Celsius, these are within the normal range for body temperature, which typically falls between 36.1°C and 37.2°C (97°F to 99°F). A low-grade fever is generally considered to be a body temperature of 37.2°C (99°F) or higher. Therefore, your readings do not indicate a fever, and it is unlikely that you are experiencing any significant health issue based solely on these temperatures.

If you continue to experience unusual sensations of warmth or any other concerning symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide a more thorough evaluation and determine if any further investigation is needed.
In summary, the risk of transmitting STDs through urinal splashing is very low, and your body temperature readings do not indicate a fever. However, if you have ongoing concerns about your health, seeking medical advice is always a prudent choice.

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