Kissing can be one of the most exciting parts of a relationship but also something to be wary off. The tricky thing about (STDs) is that you can’t always see if someone has one. Even when you don’t see signs of an STD, an infected person can pass the infection along. And even through kissing can this infection be transmitted. Here are four STD’s that can be transmitted through kissing
1. Herpes: According to an article by healthline published on the 11th of January 2021. Oral herpes can easily be passed on through kissing and about 67% percent of people under the age of 50 have the virus in their bodies. It may be spread by sharing saliva or items like utensils that have come into contact with the virus,though this is somewhat rare. The most notable symptom is a small white or red blister on the mouth or genitals. It may ooze or bleed during an outbreak. The virus can also be spread when no symptoms are present.
2. Cytomegalovirus: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a viral infection that can be passed on through contact with saliva that contains the virus. It can also be transmitted through fluids that contain CMV like urine, blood, semen and even breast milk. CMV isn’t curable but someone with CMV may never have symptoms. Like herpes, CMV can cause symptoms if you have a compromised immune system like sore throat, body aches fever and fatigue. Your doctor may recommend similar treatments to HSV.
3. Syphilis: Syphilis is a bacterial infection which isn’t typically transmitted by kissing. It’s more commonly spread through oral, genital sex. But syphilis can cause sores in your mouth that can transmit the bacteria to someone else. Deep or French kissing, which includes touching tongues together, can also increase the risk of infection. That’s because there’s more potential to come in contact with the virus this way. Early treatment of syphilis with antibiotics, such as penicillin, is usually successful against bacteria. If you think you have syphilis, contact your healthcare provider for treatment as soon as possible to prevent any long-term complications.
4. HPV: HPV stands for Human papillomavirus. In rare cases, a person can pass the infection through oral contact or contact with infected saliva but the most common way to transmit the virus is through direct contact with the genitals, however according to an article by Medical News Today published on the 8th of June, 2020 Oral HPV infects the throat and mouth and can cause cancers of the oropharynx, the back of the throat, the base of the tongue, and the tonsils.
The best way to avoid getting an STD/STI from kissing is to have a direct, transparent conversation about it with your partner. This can be intimidating, but setting boundaries early can help you avoid an infection. And if you notice this symptoms, please visit your doctor for treatments as soon as possible.
