STIs are often associated with sexual activity, but they can spread in ways you might not expect.
This article explores types of sexually transmitted infections and 13 unconventional methods of STI transmission.
1. Mother-to-Child Transmission
STIs like syphilis, gonorrhea, Hepatitis B and HIV can pass from mother to baby during pregnancy or delivery.
Ensuring proper prenatal care, early screening, and timely interventions, many of the risks of mother-to-child transmission of STIs can be minimized, leading to healthier outcomes for both mother and child.
2. Shared Personal Items
STI can be spread through shared personal items.
Razors, towels, or sex toys can harbour pathogens like HPV, herpes, or syphilis. Avoid sharing items and sanitise reusable ones properly.
3. Direct Skin-to-Skin Contact
Direct skin-to-skin contact is a significant transmission route for many STIs.
These STIs can be transmitted even when there are no visible symptoms, making them tricky to prevent.
Infections like HPV or herpes spread through direct skin contact with infected areas, even without sexual activity.
Always maintain personal hygiene and avoid direct contact with visible sores.
4. Contaminated Medical Equipment or Tattoo Needles
Although less common, inadequately sterilised needles or medical equipment can transmit infections like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or syphilis.
This is especially if they come into contact with bodily fluids like blood, semen, or vaginal fluids. Choose licensed professionals and ensure proper sterilisation practices.
5. Blood Transfusions
It is rare but possible if contaminated blood has not been adequately screened or if the infection is not detectable at the time of donation.
Modern blood screening has reduced this risk significantly.
6. Spa and Salon Equipment
Spa and salon equipment can potentially transmit STIs if proper sanitation protocols are not followed.
Unclean waxing tools or pedicure instruments can spread herpes or HPV.
Visit licensed and reputable establishments that prioritise hygiene and practice proper Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
7. Infections Through Animal Bites or Scratches
Rarely, STIs like syphilis or hepatitis B can spread via bites or scratches if exposed to infected bodily fluids.
Avoid close contact with animals in uncertain health and seek medical advice if bitten or scratched.
8. Breastfeeding
Certain infections can be passed from mother to child during breastfeeding if the mother is infected.
STIs like HIV can pass to a baby through breast milk.
Consult healthcare providers to assess the risks, provide appropriate treatment, and guide the mother on safe breastfeeding practices.
9. Shared Needles for Recreational Drug Use
Sharing needles is one of the most high-risk behaviors for transmitting STIs such as HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.
Always use clean, sterile needles and participate in harm-reduction programmes if needed.
10. Unclean Sex Toys
Sex toys that aren’t properly cleaned or sanitized can harbor harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can be transmitted during use, potentially causing infections or irritation.
Improperly sanitised sex toys can transfer infections like Chlamydia or Gonorrhea. Clean toys thoroughly and use protective barriers like condoms.
11. Oral Procedures or Dental Work
Although rare, contact with infected blood, saliva, or mucous membranes during dental procedures, can create opportunities for transmission.
Poorly sterilised dental tools could spread infections like herpes or hepatitis.
Ensure healthcare providers are equipped with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and dental instruments are properly sterilized to ensure that no pathogens are transmitted from one patient to another.
12. Travel and Public Facilities
STIs like HPV or herpes which are viral sexually transmitted infections can theoretically spread through shared public facilities, such as public restrooms, swimming pools, or hotel linens.
Use personal items like towels, avoid sitting on wet surfaces in public areas, and ensure hygiene in shared spaces.
13. Gym Equipment or Workspace Surfaces
STIs could potentially be spread through gym equipment or workspace surfaces.
Rarely, pathogens like HPV or herpes can linger on shared surfaces and infect exposed skin through bodily fluid or direct skin-to-skin contact.
Always use disinfectant wipes to wipe down gym equipment and use a clean towel as a barrier.
While these unconventional transmission routes exist, the most effective way to prevent the spread of STIs is through education, regular testing, and practicing safer behaviors, including the use of condoms and barrier methods during sexual activity.
Please consult a trusted healthcare provider like Universal Clinic to address any concerns regarding how to diagnose, treat and help you manage STIs.
