Can you get a sexually transmitted disease through kissing? In terms of sexual activity, kissing seems harmless enough. In fact, when it comes to the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), kissing is not entirely safe.
Many people view kissing as a simple act of affection or an "intimate act" with less risk than other ways of transmitting sexually transmitted diseases. However, some of these infections can also be transmitted through kissing, especially when a person has symptoms of an active infection.
What do you need to know about sexually transmitted diseases? Sexually transmitted diseases are diseases that are transmitted primarily through vaginal, anal and oral sex, especially when unprotected. However, the bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that cause it are not spread exclusively through sexual contact. In fact, venereal diseases can be contracted through other intimate activities, in which the exchange of bodily fluids (saliva, ejaculate , vaginal secretions and blood) is possible, in which infectious agents are present, as well as through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes.
What sexually transmitted diseases can be contracted from kissing? Although kissing is considered less dangerous than oral sex or other types of intimate contact, it may well contribute to the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, such as: cytomegalovirus (CMV); simple herpes; syphilis; human papillomavirus (HPV).
Cytomegalovirus may be present in saliva, while herpes and syphilis can be transmitted by skin-to-skin or mucosal contact with an infected person (who is not necessarily aware of being a carrier, often dealing with asymptomatic conditions, at least in the early stages). For the diagnosis and treatment of STDs, you can contact the Medical Center " Bogolyuby " .
Cytomegalovirus is not very easily transmitted through kissing, but it is possible. This virus is transmitted through body fluids, including saliva, urine, blood, tears, semen, and breast milk.
Oral herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and is the STD most easily spread through kissing. Oral herpes is incredibly common, affecting an estimated 3.7 billion people worldwide under the age of 50. Herpes simplex virus type 2, which is responsible for about 80-90% of all cases of genital herpes, can also be transmitted through kissing, but is most commonly transmitted through intimate contact. Many people become infected with the virus not through sexual contact, but during childhood; for example, something like a kiss from an infected parent or relative can spread the virus. Herpes can also be transmitted through shared utensils or anything that comes into contact with the virus.
Syphilis is usually transmitted through vaginal, oral, or anal sex. This infection can be transmitted through kissing if one of the partners has mouth ulcers. Most of these ulcers are on the lips, mouth, and genitals; typically, these lesions are firm, round, and painless, and they may heal within 3 to 6 weeks.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is usually transmitted through direct contact with the genitals, but a small number of people can develop oral HPV, which can cause cancer of the oropharynx, tongue, tonsils, or throat. If your saliva is contaminated, you can pass the virus on to your partner through deep kissing and oral sex.
How to warn?
While it's impossible to avoid contracting all STDs, there are a few things that can greatly reduce your risk. Don't kiss anyone with active herpes until the symptoms are completely gone. Use barrier methods for vaginal, anal and oral sex. Limit the number of partners: The more people you have sex with, the higher your risk of contracting an STD.
