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Can Saliva as Lube Transmit STIs
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STDs & Related Infections
Question #10801
92 days ago
280

Can Saliva as Lube Transmit STIs - #10801

Rita

Hi, I’ve been dealing with anxiety about a past intimate experience. There was no sex involved, but saliva was used as lube by my partner. I’m worried if that could have exposed me to any STDs, even though it seems low risk. I want to know if I should get tested and also talk through my fear and confusion with someone professional. Is this something you can help with?

Age: 22
Chronic illnesses: No
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Doctors’ responses

Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
92 days ago
5

Saliva was used for what?

822 answered questions
67% best answers

4 replies
Rita
Client
92 days ago

Fingering

Rita
Client
92 days ago

Still what are the possible infections that could if my partner had any

Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
92 days ago
5

HSV-1 & HSV-2 IgG (blood) You can get tested

822 answered questions
67% best answers
Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
92 days ago
5

Ok no problem untill and unless your partner is suffering from any disease.

822 answered questions
67% best answers
Accepted response

Saliva indeed can potentially transmit certain STIs, though the risk is significantly lower compared to other bodily fluids like blood or genital secretions. The main concern would be STIs that can affect the throat or mouth, such as herpes simplex virus (HSV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and in rare cases, gonorrhea. HSV, for instance, can manifest as cold sores in the oral region, and if present, may be transmitted through the saliva. However, the prevalence of such transmission through using saliva as a lubricant is much lower than other forms of direct sexual contact. Testing could be considered if you have specific symptoms or for peace of mind, particularly if the partner was known to carry any oral infections. A healthcare provider can offer a more tailored recommendation based on your specific history and level of risk. You mentioned wanting to speak with a professional, which sounds absolutely reasonable. A conversation with a healthcare provider, or mental health professional could help you address any anxiety stemming from this experience and provide clarity about possible risks and testing options. It’s crucial to consider a holistic view of both your physical and mental well-being in situations like this. Don’t hesitate to seek that additional support. Additionally, keep an eye out for any symptoms like unusual sores, mouth discomfort, or other related signs and get checked if they appear.

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