A frequently asked question about sexual health is whether it is possible to contract STIs if you are still a virgin. This article offers insight into how STIs are spread.
The term 'virgin' usually refers to someone who has not yet had sexual intercourse. However, other forms of sexual contact, such as oral or anal sex, can also lead to the transmission of STIs.
STIs can be transmitted through different types of sexual contact, not just vaginal or anal intercourse. This means that activities such as oral sex, genital skin-to-skin contact, and even some forms of deep kissing can pose risks for the transmission of certain STIs.
Some STIs can be present without visible symptoms, meaning a person can have an STI without knowing it. For example, STIs such as herpes and HPV can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, even if there are no active outbreaks.
Certain STIs, such as HIV and genital herpes, can be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding. This means that a person can be born with such an STI.
Although the risk of STI transmission is lower if both partners are virgins, it is not completely eliminated. It is important to be aware of the different ways STIs can be transmitted and to take precautions, such as using protection in all forms of sexual contact.