Do hand jobs carry any real risk of STI transmission?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Last week, I went to a massage parlor and ended up with a hand job. Now I have anxiety about getting an STI (sexually transmitted infection). I checked her hand, and there was no visible blood or cuts. She was fully clothed, and her hand was covered with oil as she was massaging my body for more than an hour. If I want to get tested, what will be the right time, or is it not required? Are there any cases of getting an STI by getting a hand job? Please help.
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read your query and can understand your concern.
It is completely natural to feel anxious after any intimate encounter, especially when it involves uncertainty. But please be reassured: the risk of HIV transmission through a massage or handjob is virtually zero, especially if there were no open, bleeding wounds involved, and it sounds like that was the case for you. HIV is not transmitted through casual contact or through skin unless blood is involved. Since you did not notice any bleeding cuts or injuries, your risk of HIV is essentially nil in this situation. That said, there are other STIs (sexually transmitted infections) that can sometimes be passed through skin-to-skin contact, like herpes simplex virus (HSV).
The risk is higher if the other person has visible sores or active lesions, but even then, the chance is not high without direct contact. If it helps ease your mind, you can get tested for HSV-1 and HSV-2 IgM and IgG antibodies now, and again in about 3 months to be sure. Testing is a good step, not because your risk is high, but because it gives peace of mind. You are doing the right thing by asking questions and staying informed. Take care of yourself, you are being responsible.
Hope this helps.
Thanks and take care.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you for the reply.
I do not think there were lesions in her hand or in my whole body, still, is it mandatory to get HSV (herpes simplex virus) tests? And there were definitely no bleeding wounds. Can HSV be caused by partners as well?
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I read your query and can understand your concern.
There are chances of transmission of HSV (herpes simplex virus) by skin-to-skin contact or kissing or STDs (sexually transmitted disorders) from partners too. Even many children are infected by contact. However, if there were no lesions during interaction the chances of HSV transmission are minimal. If you still desire or are anxious, you can go for HSV tests as suggested earlier. It will also help you to know the current HSV status.
Hope this helps.
Thanks and take care.
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