Published on May 20, 2025 | 10:10 AM
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It’s a common misconception that STDs only spread through intercourse, but the reality is that you can still be at risk even without “traditional” sex. Activities like anal sex, oral sex, genital rubbing, and sharing sex toys can all transmit infections such as herpes, HPV, and syphilis.
So if you’ve ever wondered, “Can you get STDs without having sex?” the answer is yes—because many STDs don’t require vaginal penetration to spread. Understanding these risks is key to protecting yourself and your partners.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also called sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections passed through sexual contact. While vaginal sex is a common route, it’s not the only one. STDs can be transmitted through bodily fluids like semen, vaginal fluids, saliva, and blood—but also through direct skin contact.
Some infections spread easily through areas not covered by condoms, making it possible to get an STD without penetration of the penis into the vagina, like during activities that involve skin-to-skin contact or oral sex. That’s why understanding the different ways STDs can spread—even without vaginal sex—is key to reducing your risk.
Even without vaginal penetration, several forms of sexual activity can still put you at risk for STDs. Here are the most common non-penetrative ways infections can be transmitted:¹,²,³
According to the CDC, over 85% of adults aged 18 to 44 have had oral sex with a partner of the opposite sex—yet many people still underestimate the risks. While some consider oral sex a “safer” option, the truth is, you can still get an STD from oral sex. Infections like herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2), gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, and HPV can all be passed through oral-genital contact. You don’t need to have any visible symptoms to transmit or catch an STD through oral sex.Using barriers like condoms or dental dams can reduce the risk.
Some STDs—especially herpes and HPV—can be spread through direct skin-to-skin contact. That means even if there’s no vaginal or anal penetration, intimate rubbing or touching of the genital area can still expose you to the virus, especially if one partner has an active outbreak or infected skin.
Even with clothes on, there is a small risk you can get an STD from dry humping, especially if there’s skin exposure or the exchange of bodily fluids like pre-ejaculate. If underwear or thin clothing becomes soaked or displaced, the chances of transmission may increase.
Using sex toys without cleaning them between uses or sharing them between partners can lead to STD transmission. Fluids left on a toy can carry infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, herpes, and HPV. To prevent transmission of an STD from a sex toy, use condoms on toys or thoroughly sanitize with soap and water them between uses to significantly reduce this risk.
While kissing is generally low-risk, it’s not completely without concern. Deep (tongue) kissing can rarely spread oral herpes (cold sores), and in unusual cases, syphilis if open sores are present. Though uncommon, the possibility of the spread of STDs from kissing is still worth keeping in mind.
Several sexually transmitted diseases can be passed through sexual contact that doesn’t involve vaginal sex. Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) is a common example, often transmitted through oral sex, kissing, or skin-to-skin contact—even when no visible sores are present.²
Human papillomavirus (HPV) can also spread through direct genital contact, and because it infects areas not fully covered by condoms, it's possible to contract it without vaginal intercourse.² In fact, about 7% of adults in the U.S. have oral HPV, highlighting just how easily the virus can be transmitted through non-vaginal contact.⁴
Syphilis is another infection that can enter the body through small cuts or mucous membranes during oral sex or direct contact with a sore. Gonorrhea, especially in the throat or rectum, can be transmitted via oral or anal sex.²
Some evidence suggests that sex without vaginal or anal penetration may involve a lower risk of HIV transmission—but that doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. For instance, studies indicate that the chances of getting HIV from oral sex are much lower than from vaginal or anal sex with an infected partner. That said, this finding doesn't necessarily apply to all STIs.
It's also important to understand that comparing the risk levels of different sexual activities isn't straightforward. Many people engage in multiple types of sexual contact, making it difficult to pinpoint which specific act led to an infection. And while oral sex may carry a lower HIV risk, other infections like syphilis can still be transmitted.
In one study of gay men with syphilis, 1 in 5 reported having only oral sex, showing that transmission can still occur without penetration. So while some activities may be lower risk, no type of sexual contact is completely without the potential for exposure.⁵
Even if you’re not having vaginal sex, it’s still important to think about protection. While many people associate birth control with pregnancy prevention, it doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted diseases—and many STDs can still be spread through oral, anal, or skin-to-skin contact. Here’s how to reduce your risk:
If you think you’ve been exposed to an STD—whether through unprotected sex, a condom breaking, or learning that a partner has tested positive—it’s important to act quickly. Contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss next steps.
For potential HIV exposure, you may be eligible for PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), a 28-day medication that can significantly reduce the risk of infection if started within 72 hours. Your provider may also discuss DoxyPEP, a single dose of doxycycline taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex, which has shown promise in reducing bacterial STIs like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis in higher-risk individuals.
Regardless of the exposure type, getting tested is essential, even if you don’t have symptoms. Many STDs can be present without showing signs, so testing is the only way to know for sure and protect both your health and your partners'. Avoid sexual activity until you’ve been evaluated and cleared by a medical professional.
Yes, anal sex can transmit STDs like HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and herpes—often at higher risk due to the delicate tissue involved.
Yes, oral sex can spread STDs such as herpes, gonorrhea, syphilis, HPV, and chlamydia, even if there are no visible symptoms.
Yes, skin-to-skin contact during grinding can transmit infections like herpes and HPV, especially if genitals touch or clothing is thin or displaced.
While the risk is low, it’s possible to transmit or contract certain STDs like herpes, HPV, or bacterial infections if infected fluids or sores are present on the hands or genitals.
Yes, you can have an STD without having intercourse, as many infections can spread through anal sex, oral sex, skin-to-skin contact, or shared sex toys.
At Call-On-Doc, you can get the care you need without the hassle of insurance. Through our Compassionate Care program, we offer a free visit and consultation for services like birth control, PrEP for HIV prevention, PEP after potential exposure, and oral herpes treatment.
We also provide fast, discreet online STD treatment options—all handled by licensed providers and delivered with your privacy in mind. Whether you’re managing a current condition or protecting yourself for the future, Call-On-Doc makes expert care accessible, affordable, and judgment-free.
Sources:
English graduate and Call-On-Doc’s medical resource guide, Wayne C. Hahne is an experienced and passionate medical education content expert. Through diligent research, provider interviews and utilizing the industry's leading resources for wellness information, it is Mr. Hahne’s personal mission to educate the general public on medical conditions with in-depth and easy-to-understand written guides.
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STDs and STIs are common health concerns that every woman should know about. Recognizing the signs and understanding the risks is essential to protecting your health and well-being.
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