What STDs Can I Get Through Skin-to-Skin Contact?

September 15, 2018

If STDs are sexually transmitted diseases, it makes sense to think you can’t get them if you aren’t having actual sex.


Maybe you’ve recently been diagnosed with an STD and you’re wondering how in the world you got it if you haven’t even had sex or if you’ve only had protected sex or if you’ve been in what you thought was a monogamous relationship. Maybe you’re in shock and now you’re wondering how to make sure you don’t pass this infection on to someone else.


Or maybe you’ve been tested and you don’t have an STD and you want to make sure you do everything you can to keep it that way.


You deserve to have all the information you need to protect your health — physically, emotionally, and relationally.


Unfortunately, it’s possible to get an STD even if you don’t have sexual intercourse and even if you don’t exchange body fluids with another person because some STDs can be spread simply by skin-to-skin contact.


According to the Centers for Disease Control, the STDs that pose the biggest risk of skin-to-skin transmission are:

  • Genital herpes. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) -2 or genital herpes can be spread through any sexual contact with an infected person. So this can be spread by skin-to-skin or mouth-to-skin contact.


  • Syphilis. Syphilis sores can be inside the mouth or in the genital area, and any uncovered sores can be contagious. Often, syphilis sores aren’t recognized as an STD and aren’t treated.


  • Human papillomavirus (HPV). Forms of this virus can cause cancer or genital warts. It’s not always obvious that someone has HPV, and HPV is very easily spread through contact with the skin. HPV is the most common STD. According to the CDC, HPV is so common that almost everyone who’s sexually active will get HPV at some point.


  • Pubic lice. Pubic lice are usually living on the pubic hair, but they can live on coarse hair anywhere on the body. Just as head lice are easily spread through contact, so are pubic lice.
  • Scabies. Scabies is caused by a mite that lives on the top layer of skin. The mites move from person to person during prolonged skin-to-skin contact.


Because these STDs can spread from any sexual contact, including heavy petting, outercourse (a.k.a. dry humping) – any skin-to-skin contact – the only way to prevent them is to avoid any sexual contact or to only have sexual contact if you are in a mutually monogamous relationship (you both know you don’t have an STD and you and your partner only have sexual contact with each other.)


If you’ve already been diagnosed with one of these STDs, there is some hopeful news —-some of these STDs can often be treated with the correct medications. Genital warts or pre-cancer caused by HPV can be treated by your medical provider. And you can ask your doctor how you can prevent spreading the STD to a partner.


The reality is though, there are some consequences associated with STDs. Symptoms and parasites can be treated but viruses most often stay in our systems.


We know it can be scary and overwhelming to think that you can get an STD even if you choose not to have sexual intercourse. And it can be really discouraging to not have any form of sex and still get diagnosed with an STD. If you need someone to talk to, our medical staff will listen. We can give you more information about STDs, test and treat you for Gonorrhea and Chlamydia, and also refer you to other medical providers who can test for additional STDs.



Even if this is a bit frightening and frustrating, you don’t have to navigate this alone. We really do care about you, and we’re here to help you however we can.

July 2, 2025
If you’re in your second trimester (between 13 and 26 weeks of pregnancy), you might be asking, What now? Maybe you just found out you’re pregnant, or maybe this stage of pregnancy is bringing new questions or emotions. No matter where you are in your journey, Collage is here to offer support, information, and a safe place to talk through your options. Understanding Abortion Laws in Nebraska In Nebraska, abortion is not permitted after 12 weeks gestation, with limited exceptions. If you’re considering abortion and believe you may be near or past this point, it’s important to have an ultrasound to confirm how far along you are. If you’re unsure how far along you are, Collage offers no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to provide the medical information you need to understand your next steps. Exploring Your Other Pregnancy Options If abortion is not an option or you’re unsure what’s next, you still have choices. We can talk with you more about each of them. Parenting Parenting might feel like something you’re not ready for or even impossible right now. But with the right support, it may be more achievable than you think. You don’t have to have all the answers today. At Collage, we can connect you with local resources, parenting classes, and support systems that can help you prepare, step by step. You won’t be alone. Adoption If parenting doesn’t seem like the right fit for your current season, adoption is another option that gives you the ability to make a thoughtful plan for your child. Today’s adoption process puts you in control of key decisions, including:  Choosing the adoptive family Deciding how much (if any) communication you’d like to have Creating a plan that reflects your goals and values We offer adoption referrals and a confidential space to explore what this might look like for you—no pressure, just information and support. You’re Not Alone Navigating pregnancy in the second trimester can feel heavy, but you don’t have to walk through it by yourself. At Collage, you’ll find compassionate care, medical services, and honest answers to your questions. Schedule your no-cost appointment today. We’re here to listen and support through this process.
June 4, 2025
An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers. Especially when friends are urging you to choose abortion, you may be more confused than ever. While their advice might come from care or fear, it’s essential to remember this is your pregnancy, future, and choice. At Collage, we’re here to help you navigate this pressure and find a path that feels right for you so that you can feel informed and confident about your decision. Reach out to us today for no-cost support. Listen to Your Instincts Your friends might be an important part of your life, but your instincts matter most. If abortion doesn’t feel right, take a moment to ask: What’s holding me back? Maybe you’re picturing parenting your child or are curious about adoption. It’s also important to keep in mind that abortion is a serious procedure that your friends may not fully grasp the details of. Physical and emotional risks are involved, making it a more complex decision. Your hesitation is a sign to slow down and explore, not to rush into a choice you’re not ready for. Talk It Out If your friends keep pressing, try a gentle conversation. Let them know you understand they’re worried, you’re not sure about abortion yet. Ask what’s driving their advice. Maybe they’re scared about your finances or future. Maybe they’re simply telling you what they’d do in your situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Understanding their side can ease tension without giving in. If they won’t respect your space, set boundaries and let them know you need time to think. You don’t owe them an immediate answer. Find Your Support Surround yourself with people who’ll lift you up, not pull you down. Write down your thoughts or talk to someone neutral. You can find a counselor or even online spaces where you can share your heart with those who won’t push one option over another. Even a trusted family member, a mentor, or a place like Collage can offer perspective without strings. You deserve to make this decision with clear facts and a steady heart, not under pressure. Help is Available If your friends are pushing abortion but you’re not ready, Collage is here with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and pregnancy options education to help you decide what’s next. Our trained team offers confidential support to explore parenting, adoption, or abortion without pressure. Contact us for a no-cost appointment today. You deserve to choose your own path.
May 21, 2025
An unexpected pregnancy can flip your world upside down, and the urge to keep it under wraps might hit hard. Maybe you’re thinking abortion could erase the situation quietly.
Show More