HomeAnswersHIV/AIDS specialistsexually transmitted diseasesWhat is the possibility of STD or HIV transmission with fingering?

I am concerned about STD after fingering a sex worker. Please advise.

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Vinodhini J.

Published At August 22, 2020
Reviewed AtJuly 31, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I fingered a sex worker and now I am concerned if I had any exposure to HIV(Human Immunodeficiency Virus) or other STDs (Sexually Transmitted Disease) as I may have had a small wound on my finger. Please advise.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The chances of transmission of HIV by the given description are almost nil unless there are open wounds.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

What would you define as an open wound?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

If the wound is bleeding, not healed then there are chances of it to act as a portal of entry of HIV. If healed, the chances are nil. Further skin of palms and soles are thick, which also acts as a natural barrier. Intact skin acts as a barrier and prevents the entry for HIV.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

How about a wound that was not bleeding, rather a scratch?

Hi, Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It depends on the depth of the scratch, site of the scratch, and contact with infected fluid or blood. If superficial without any bleeding points the chances are almost nil. If deeper with bleeding points, the transmission is possible if exposed to infective fluid or blood. Palms and soles usually have thicker skin, and chances of transmission by simple scratches would be almost nil. If healed scratches, then also chances will be very low. If the lady is HIV negative, there is no chance of transmission of HIV.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra
Dr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra

Dermatology

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