apollo
  • male
  • 25 Years
  • 01/04/2021

Can STDs be transmitted by kissing?

Doctor 1

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Only certain sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are transmittable through kissing. Two common ones are herpes simplex virus (HSV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV).

Dr. Dr Khaleel Suggests...

Consult a Infectious Disease specialist

Answered 04/07/2025

0

0

doc

Ask Apollo

AI powered Health Chatbot

Continue Chat

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are generally transmitted through sexual contact, but some can be passed through kissing. Here's what you should know:

  1. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2):

    • Most common STD transmitted through kissing, especially with active cold sores or oral lesions.
  2. Syphilis:

    • Less common, but can be transmitted through deep kissing if sores or lesions are present in the mouth.
  3. Other STDs:

    • Most, like HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HPV, are not typically transmitted through kissing.

Important Points:

  • Risk increases with open sores, cuts, or bleeding gums.
  • Maintain good oral hygiene and avoid kissing with visible sores to reduce risk.

If concerned about STDs or symptoms after kissing, consult a healthcare provider for testing and advice.

Recommended next steps

Take a HSV Test (Herpes Simplex Virus) Test or Take a RPR TEST FOR SYPHILIS Test

Answered 20/08/2025

0

1

Sick? Talk to a doctor now

More Infectious Disease Health Queries

View all

I had a Mantoux test yesterday and I'm really worried about how it looks today. Is it turning out to be positive? Can you help me figure this out?

If montoux test is positive.Patient is advised x-ray chest pa view and sputum for AFB and microscopy.

read more
Doctor 1Doctor 2

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm feeling a bit worried about my recent blood test results. I had a torch panel test done using EIA, and the results showed that my HSV 12 IgG level is at 1.6 and the IgM is at 0.2. What does this mean? Does it indicate that I have a herpes infection? Can you help me understand this better?

An IgG level of 1.6 indicates a past infection with herpes simplex virus, while an IgM level of 0.2 suggests a low likelihood of a recent infection. This means that you have been exposed to the herpes virus in the past, but it does not necessarily indicate a current or active infection. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and interpretation of these results.

read more
Doctor 1Doctor 2

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm a bit concerned about my sister. She had an exploratory laparotomy last August and was diagnosed with abdominal tuberculosis. She's been on ATT since September, taking Rifampin, isoniazid, ethambutol, and pyridoxine. She's feeling better, her appetite's good, and she's gaining weight, which is great. But lately, I've noticed her arms and hands feel warmer to the touch compared to others in the family. She doesn't feel feverish, and her oral temperature is normal around 98F. Is this something we should be worried about?

The recent onset of warm arms and hands in your sister, despite normal body temperature and overall well-being, could be related to her ongoing anti-tuberculosis treatment (ATT), particularly Rifampin, which can cause flushing and warmth;

read more
Doctor 1Doctor 2

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.