Can You Get an STD From a Handjob? Understanding the Risks

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are typically associated with unprotected sexual intercourse, but there exists a common misconception that activities such as receiving a handjob carry no risk of transmitting infections. 

While the likelihood of contracting an STD through manual stimulation might be lower, it still exists. But do you know how can you get an STD from a handjob? 

Read this article to find out the answer based on scientific research. 

Understanding the possibilities

As mentioned, the risk of contracting an STI from a handjob exists, although it’s relatively low. 

However, the potential for handjob STI transmission varies based on several factors. Here’s a brief explanation of them:

Transmission via bodily fluids

Some STDs can spread through semen or genital fluids. For instance, HIV transmission can occur if semen from an HIV-positive individual comes into contact with an open cut during a handjob. Similarly, STIs like Hepatitis B can spread through blood contact.

Moreover, certain infections like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis might have a slight chance of transmission if saliva is used as a lubricant.

Skin-to-skin contact

Certain infections, notably Herpes, are known to be transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact. This implies that during handjob or fingering, there exists a potential risk of transmitting such infections if contact occurs with active lesions or infected areas.

So, the gist is if you think handjobs are safe when you have an STD, then you are wrong.

Read along as we discuss the probability of which STDs are more commonly transmitted from a handjob.

Also read: Curious about how STDs can be transmitted through different sexual practices? Read our article “Unveiling the Risks and Safeguards: Understanding STD from Oral Sex” to know more.

Probability of different STDs

While all STDs theoretically carry a potential risk of transmission through manual stimulation, specific infections are more commonly associated with this form of contact. Here’s a list of them:

HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

Primarily, HPV is transmitted through genital-to-genital contact. However, emerging research suggests that if there are warts on their hands and they touch their genitals, they pose a risk of HPV transmission from a handjob. 

Scabies

This skin condition is characterized by intense itching and rashes. It can spread through prolonged skin-to-skin contact, including manual stimulation scenarios.

Herpes

Herpes is known for its skin-to-skin transmission. It can also be transmitted through touch, especially when contact is made with active sores or lesions during a handjob.

Exploring lower-risk infections

Certain infections are less likely to be transmitted through manual stimulation, requiring contact with less commonly touched areas or specific bodily fluids:

• Gonorrhea and Chlamydia is usually transmitted through anal, oral, or vaginal sex
• HIV and Hepatitis B transmission occurs mainly through the transfer of bodily fluids, making transmission less likely during hand-to-genital contact
• Syphilis transmission is more common through vaginal or anal intercourse
• Remember, lower-risk infections don’t mean there is no risk of infections. You should always be cautious before

Symptoms to notice

Skin irritation symptoms of STDs transmitted via handjob may include the following:

• Redness
• Itching
• Rash 

Here are some STD-specific symptoms:

• Genital warts caused by HPV can manifest as small growths or bumps
• Herpes may result in painful blisters or sores
• If there’s any unusual discharge from the penis or burning sensation during urination, it could indicate an infection like Gonorrhea or Chlamydia

However, it’s important to note that many STDs might not immediately show symptoms. Regular testing and communication with sexual partners are crucial for maintaining sexual health and preventing the spread of STDs.

Safer sex practices

Practicing safe practices for avoiding STIs during a handjob involves specific precautions:

• Hand hygiene: Before engaging in any sexual activity, including a handjob, ensure that your hands are thoroughly washed with soap and water
• Dental dams: A dental dam, made of latex, is placed over the vulva or anus, serving as a barrier during oral-genital contact. You can keep it during a handjob to avoid skin-to-skin contact
• Avoid open wounds or sores: Ensure that both partners don’t have any open wounds, sores, or cuts on their hands or genitals that could potentially come into contact during the activity
• Condom use: Although condoms are typically associated with penetrative sex, they can also be used during a handjob to act as a barrier and avoid any direct contact
• Lubricants: Using water-based lubricants with condoms during a handjob can reduce friction and lower the risk of condom breakage

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Conclusion

Engaging in sexual activities, including manual stimulation like a handjob, presents a lower risk of transmitting Sexually Transmitted Diseases compared to penetrative sex. 

However, it’s important to recognize that a handjob is not completely safe if you have an STD. While certain STDs are less likely to be transmitted through this form of contact, infections like HIV, Hepatitis B, Herpes, and HPV can pose some risks.

You should look out for skin irritation symptoms, and specific signs such as genital warts or unusual discharge warrant attention. 

Practicing safe sex measures, such as hand hygiene, avoiding open wounds or sores, using condoms, and employing lubricants, can reduce the risk of transmission during a handjob. Still, it’s crucial if you are engaging in any sexual activity to prioritize communication, mutual consent, and regular testing for STDs to ensure your sexual health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

• cdc.gov
• plannedparenthood.org