Risk of HIV and STIs from Hand Injuries During Mutual Masturbation

Having a wound on your hand and engaging in mutual masturbation raises concerns about the potential transmission of HIV?

Hello doctor, yesterday I engaged in mutual masturbation with someone else, but I completely forgot that I had a wound on the back of my hand (about 0.2 cm, no bleeding).
There was contact with semen, and the other person also touched my wound (saliva was used as lubrication during the process).
Am I at risk of contracting HIV or other sexually transmitted infections? Should I seek post-exposure prophylaxis?

Kai Kai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/24

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be transmitted through bodily fluids, blood, and sexual intercourse.
If you have any concerns, it is advisable to consult your family physician or an infectious disease specialist, and arrange for relevant blood tests if necessary.
These diseases all have a window period, and we strongly emphasize the importance of "safe sex." Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/09/24

More Info

When it comes to the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during mutual masturbation, especially when there are open wounds involved, it is essential to understand the transmission dynamics of HIV and the factors that influence the risk of infection.

Firstly, HIV is primarily transmitted through specific bodily fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. The virus is not transmitted through saliva, sweat, or urine. In your case, the concern arises from the contact between your open wound and the other person's semen, especially since you mentioned that your wound was approximately 0.2 cm and not actively bleeding.

The risk of HIV transmission through contact with semen is significantly influenced by several factors:
1. Presence of Open Wounds: While you mentioned that your wound was not actively bleeding, any break in the skin can potentially serve as a point of entry for the virus. However, the risk is much lower if the wound is small and not exposed to a high viral load.

2. Viral Load: The amount of HIV present in the semen of the infected partner is crucial. If the partner is on effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) and has an undetectable viral load, the risk of transmission is negligible. Conversely, if the partner is HIV-positive and not on treatment, the risk increases.

3. Environmental Stability of HIV: HIV is a fragile virus that does not survive long outside the human body. Once exposed to air, the virus begins to degrade rapidly, which reduces the likelihood of transmission through contact with dried or exposed fluids.

4. Other STIs: While HIV is a significant concern, other STIs can also be transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids. If the other person has an STI, there may be a risk of transmission, especially if there are open wounds involved.

Given these factors, the likelihood of contracting HIV from the scenario you described is relatively low, but it is not zero. The presence of an open wound does increase the risk slightly, especially if the other person is HIV-positive and has a detectable viral load.
Regarding post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), it is typically recommended for individuals who have had a potential exposure to HIV within the last 72 hours. PEP involves taking antiretroviral medications for 28 days to reduce the risk of infection. If you are concerned about potential exposure, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss your situation and determine whether PEP is appropriate for you.

In summary, while the risk of HIV transmission in your situation is low, it is essential to be proactive about your health. If you have any concerns or symptoms, or if you believe you may have been exposed to HIV or other STIs, seeking medical advice and getting tested is the best course of action. Regular testing and open communication with sexual partners about health status are crucial components of sexual health and safety.

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