How to get an STD without having sex

Many people believe that in order to contract an STD, you must engage in sexual intercourse. However, this is widely believed falsehood. It is very possible to contract an STD even if you never have had sex, or not sexually active. According to the ACOG [American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists] Committee on Adolescent Health Care and Committee on Gynecologic Practice:“Couples may engage in noncoital (that is, sex without intercourse) sexual activity instead of penile-vagina intercourse hoping to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases and unintended pregnancy. Although these behaviors carry little or no risk of pregnancy, women (and men) engaging in noncoital behaviors may be at risk of acquiring sexually transmitted diseases.”

Kissing

Type 1 herpes, or oral herpes, is a common STD that can be transmitted by kissing. If someone has type 1 herpes, they have it for life. So even someone who does not show the physical symptoms of an outbreak (clusters of fluid-filled blisters, sores on the mouth), the virus can still be spread. The most susceptible time a person is vulnerable to contracting the herpes virus is when there is a break in the skin that contacts a sore.

Body to Body Contact

Regardless of bodily fluid interaction or penetration, STDs such as warts (HPV) and other bacterial infections can be transferred through body contact. This is highly unlikely if you are clothed, but if skin to skin contact is made, there is a higher risk. Shaving the genital area can also increase the transmission of infection due to the small breaks that are made from a razor.

Oral Sex

Oral sex is one of the easiest ways to contract an STD. Participating in oral sex can lead to the transmission of gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes, and others. Any contact with infected surfaces on the body (especially mouth to genitals) puts people at a high risk.

Protect Yourself

If you are unaware of your body (and your sexual partner’s body) you are putting yourself at risk. Get tested for STDs frequently and being proactive about your sexual health is of chief importance to your sex life and overall well being. If infected, make sure to take care of it before it begins to undermine your health. If you’re looking for sexual health advice, it is important to consult a medical professional. Dr. Elist has nearly 40 years of experience in urology, specifically male sexual enhancement, male sexual health, and male sexual dysfunction.