Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
What Are The Chances Of STD Transmission Through Shared Bathrooms?
Hello, I have a lot of anxiety regarding STDs. I was tested after 2 months of being sexually active with my boyfriend, and the tests call came back negative. Since then, we have only been with each other. Sometimes I get nervous about catching something from the bathrooms at my college, or from sharing towels with people. Is this a possibility, and does my situation sound like I am eliminating the possibility of contracting an STD?
posted on
Sun, 29 Mar 2015
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Wed, 8 Apr 2015
Answered on
Thu, 9 Apr 2015
Last reviewed on
Hello. Thank you for writing to us
Though it would have been helpful if you would have also mentioned the specific tests that you went through, nevertheless, testing negative at 2 months after your last sexual contact practically excludes possibility of an STD's apart from genital warts which can have a long incubation period varying from a few days up to 20 months.
Besides, definitive test for HIV and syphilis (RPR/VDRL) at 12 weeks is taken as conclusive. Therefore you may take up a repeat screen test for HIV and syphilis at 3 months for a conclusive result.
I suggest that you visit a sexual health clinic for more information and counselling regarding safe sexual practices.
STD's are only acquired by close contact with an infected sexual partner i.e oral, vaginal or anal sex, therefore you can shed your fears of acquiring an STD from shared items like bathrooms, towels etc.
Regards
Though it would have been helpful if you would have also mentioned the specific tests that you went through, nevertheless, testing negative at 2 months after your last sexual contact practically excludes possibility of an STD's apart from genital warts which can have a long incubation period varying from a few days up to 20 months.
Besides, definitive test for HIV and syphilis (RPR/VDRL) at 12 weeks is taken as conclusive. Therefore you may take up a repeat screen test for HIV and syphilis at 3 months for a conclusive result.
I suggest that you visit a sexual health clinic for more information and counselling regarding safe sexual practices.
STD's are only acquired by close contact with an infected sexual partner i.e oral, vaginal or anal sex, therefore you can shed your fears of acquiring an STD from shared items like bathrooms, towels etc.
Regards
I find this answer helpful
Hi,
Welcome to HCM.
STDs from sharing towels and bath rooms are quite unlikely.
It is always safe sex even with your boy friend.
Dr S.Murugan
Welcome to HCM.
STDs from sharing towels and bath rooms are quite unlikely.
It is always safe sex even with your boy friend.
Dr S.Murugan
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....