Can You Contract STDs from Uninfected Partners During Intercourse?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

If both parties are free of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), there is no risk of transmitting an STI during intercourse.
However, if bodily fluids from one partner enter the other partner's body, there is a potential risk of infection if one of the partners is unknowingly infected.
Therefore, it is essential to ensure both partners are tested and confirmed free of STIs to minimize any risk.

Aei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/29

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, if there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Online responses can only serve as a reference; if necessary, it is still important to seek medical care at a healthcare facility.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, who cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2016/02/29

More Info

When it comes to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), the fundamental principle is that these infections are transmitted through direct contact with an infected person's bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal secretions, or breast milk. If both partners are confirmed to be free of STDs, the risk of contracting an STD during intercourse is virtually nonexistent.
However, it is essential to understand that the term "uninfected" must be taken seriously. This means that both partners have been tested and confirmed to be free of STDs. If either partner has not been tested or is unaware of their STD status, there is a risk of transmission. Some STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning that an infected person may not show any signs or symptoms of the disease but can still transmit it to their partner.
In terms of bodily fluids, if both partners are indeed uninfected, the exchange of fluids during intercourse will not lead to an STD infection. However, if one partner is unknowingly infected, then the exchange of fluids can facilitate the transmission of the infection.
Moreover, it is important to consider other factors that can influence the risk of STD transmission. For instance, certain activities, such as oral sex or anal sex, may carry different risks depending on the presence of cuts, sores, or other vulnerabilities in the mucous membranes. Additionally, the presence of other infections, such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections, can increase susceptibility to STDs.

To further mitigate the risk of STDs, it is advisable for sexually active individuals to engage in regular testing, especially if they have multiple partners or if their partner's STD status is unknown. Using protection, such as condoms, can significantly reduce the risk of transmission, even when both partners are believed to be uninfected.

In summary, if both partners are confirmed to be free of STDs, the likelihood of contracting an STD during intercourse is extremely low. However, it is crucial to ensure that both partners have been tested and are aware of their sexual health status to maintain a safe sexual environment. Regular testing, open communication about sexual health, and the use of protection are key components in preventing the transmission of STDs.

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