Can STD Be Transmitted Through Non-penetrative Sexual Activity?

Posted on Tue, 3 May 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 3 May 2016 Answered on

Fri, 17 Jun 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi there,

I had sexual contact with a female the other day in which she, (potentially) having a small amount of vaginal juice on her hand, gave me a brief handjob. I am unsure if she touched the mucous membrane of my penis (I am circumcised), but I am inclined to say she did not. What is the risk for STD transmission in this event? (Curious about all STDs). Should I be tested, and if so, when?

Thank you so much for your help; I am awfully worried.

Best,
XXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Nothing to worry

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for the query.
STD spreads when there is breach in mucus membrane.
If the mucus membrane of your penis was intact just contact of vaginal fluid will not cause disease.
There is no need to go for tests.
You are totally safe.
Let me know if you have any other doubts.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (6 minutes later)

So, just to get my money's worth here: what if the vaginal fluid came directly in contact with the uncovered tip of my penis? The glans would have to be cut for there to be any risk?

Is it possible that through a handjob the fluid could travel through the urethra and pose a risk that way?

Thanks,
XXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (10 hours later)

Brief Answer:
You are safe

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Yes there has to be a cut for infection to enter inside.
Even if the infection enters through urethra if gets flushed out once you urinate.
Feel free yo ask any other doubts.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Naveen Kumar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (16 minutes later)

(Last question): So infection is virtually impossible through a handjob where vaginal fluid was used as lubricant as long as there are no cuts on the penis? Thanks!!!!

XXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (3 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes damage to mucosa is important

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Yes a break in mucosa is important for infection to enter.
In unprotected sexual intercourse the risk is high because the friction during sexual intercourse leads to micro traumas which help in spread of infection.
Let me know if you have any other doubts.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Naveen Kumar