STIs are more commonly spread during oral sex or intercourse. Over 26 sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may be passed on through sexual contact, and a vast majority of these infections include contact with genital fluids, sores, and the genitals. But did you know that there are few that can be passed through kissing?
This may be a low-risk sexual activity or a simple display of affection for many individuals, but there are a few STDs that can be passed on through kissing, especially when an individual has active symptoms or infections, such as oral sores. Here are 4 STDs you should know that can be spread through kissing.
1. Syphilis
As a bacterial infection, syphilis can be spread from direct oral contact with a syphilis sore. Most of these sores are found on the lips, in the mouth, and on genitals. These sores are typically firm, round, and painless, and can heal within 3 to 6 weeks.
Over time, the individual with a syphilis infection may see a reddish-brown rash develop on the palms of their hands, on the soles of their feet, or sometimes both. As these rashes do not cause any itch, the individual may not notice it straight away.
2. Herpes
Herpes is known as a simplex virus with 2 different forms, HSV-1 and HSV-2, with the former being easily spread through kissing. An individual with herpes may experience periods where there are no symptoms of the disease, followed after by periods in which they may experience different symptoms. While herpes is most contagious when the symptoms are present, an asymptomatic individual is still able to pass it on.
HSV-1 is the most common oral herpes that causes ulcers, painful blisters or sores that are formed within, around, or on the lips and the mouth of the infected individual. These skin lesions are often known and referred to as cold sores.
3. HPV
There are several different types of human papillomaviruses (HPVs). In some instances, HPV can be passed from one individual to the other when there is oral contact or through contact with infected saliva. For HPV, the most common way for the virus to be transmitted is through contact with the genitals.
Oral HPV, which is infection through oral contact, can infect the mouth and the throat, causing cancers to the oropharynx, the base of the tongue, the tonsils, and the back of the throat.
4. Cytomegalovirus
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is an STD that can be spread from direct contact with bodily fluids, such as breast milk, tears, semen, and blood. For younger children and babies, they can be spread through contact with urine or saliva. Healthy individuals are able to prevent the spread of CMV through their body’s immune system, combating any severe illnesses or infections.
With CMV, individuals may experience symptoms such as fatigue, fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. Individuals with compromised immune functions may experience much more severe symptoms on their eyes, stomach, liver, lungs, oesophagus, and intestines.
Conclusion
Only 4 out of 26 different STDs are able to be passed through kissing, but that doesn’t mean you should take them lightly. Should you detect any symptoms of infectious diseases, you should seek an STD clinic in Singapore, such as Elyon Clinic. We offer essential healthcare services to treat hair loss, wart removal, as well as health screenings, HIV testing, and STD testing.
Contact us at 6802 7208 and let us know your health concerns today.
