Can You Get an STD From a Handjob?

Many people assume they can only get sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) from penetrative sex, though this misconception only increases the spread. If you’re wondering, “Can you get an STD from a handjob?” you’re not alone. 

At Rapid STD Testing, we’re here to educate you on all the common infections from sexual contact so that you can stay safe. Learn about the trends and statistics when it comes to STDs if you want to know which you should watch out for most.

Read on as we discuss whether or not you can get an STD from a handjob—that is, one sexual partner’s manual touch of the other partner’s genitals to try to bring them to orgasm. 

Handjob STD Risks

Can you get an STD from giving a handjob? Although handjobs and oral sex are safer than penetrative sex because they reduce pregnancy risks, you can still get an STD from skin-to-skin contact. 

So, how can you get a handjob-related STD? 

• Touching your own genitals after touching your partner’s: Any bacteria or viruses can enter your system if you touch your partner and get their genital secretions on your hands before touching yourself. 
• Fingering your partner’s anus: The rectal region contains dangerous fecal bacteria that shouldn’t enter other body parts. If you finger your partner’s anus and don’t adequately disinfect yourself afterwards, you might put yourself and your partner at risk of spreading the bacteria to the genitals or mouth. 
• Giving a handjob with an open wound on your hand: Bacteria and viruses can enter your body through different passageways. Open wounds offer instant entry points for dangerous infections. If you give your partner a handjob with a cut on your finger, the skin contact or body fluids could allow bacteria to enter your body. 
• Not washing your hands afterwards: Washing your hands before, during, and after handjobs reduces the spread of germs. If you don’t disinfect, you might accidentally touch your face, mouth, or genitals, transferring the STD. 

Can You Get an STD From Giving a Handjob?

Yes, all parties participating in sexual activities can get an STD, even if you’ve only touched each other with your hands. Some STDs spread through skin contact, while others transfer through penile and vaginal fluids. Regardless, you might become exposed to such infectious fluids during any fingering or manual stimulation activities. 

The handjob giver experiences more STD risks than the receiver since you’re exposing yourself to another person’s genital region while they only have contact with your hands. A receiver may also get an STD if the giver didn’t properly wash before touching any regions. 

What Possible STDs Can You Get From a Handjob?

Can you get an STD from a handjob? Yes. But which ones should you watch out for? 

Herpes 

Herpes is a common STD that causes painful red sores around the genitals or mouth regions (and sometimes both). People don’t always display symptoms of herpes, so they can spread the disease without realizing it. 

You can get herpes from a handjob if an infected person touches their genitals before touching you. The STD can also spread through genital secretions and spit. 

In rare cases, infected individuals get herpetic blisters on their hands that look like open sores. The painful wounds can infect you with herpes if your partner touches your genitals. 

Genital Lice 

Genital lice, commonly called “crabs,” are small insects that feed on human blood and thrive in pubic hair. Like head lice, these creatures jump from person to person quite easily. You can get genital lice from direct skin contact or by sharing clothing or towels. 

Genital lice are often visibly noticeable, although you might not be able to see them in dimly lit rooms. We recommend washing your hands carefully and using a fresh personal towel (that is, not shared) to clean up. 

Syphilis 

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that progresses through long stages, beginning with lumps that look like painless genital warts, then a rash, before eventually damaging the brain, eyes, nerves, and heart (if left untreated for years). 

Syphilis spreads through skin contact, so your partner might spread it to you if they touch their own infected area before giving you a handjob. Because of this risk, pregnant mothers can also infect their unborn babies with syphilis during pregnancy. 

Mononucleosis

Mononucleosis, commonly called mono or “the kissing disease,” is a viral infection usually related to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Sexually active individuals can spread mono through saliva or genital secretion, so you could get it just from kissing your partner during sexual play or a handjob. If you get sick, you’ll suffer flu-like symptoms for a few weeks or months. 

Molluscum Contagiosum

The Molluscum virus acts similarly to poison ivy. The red bumps spread through skin contact, and scratching them makes them spread to more areas on your body. Usually, the blisters surround your lower abdomen, thighs, and genitals. 

Since the virus lives on the skin, doctors must freeze or laser the bumps to remove the contagious areas. Occasionally, they may dissolve on their own. 

Safety Precautions and Treatment 

Can you get an STD from a handjob? We hope by now you realize that the answer is “Yes”! 

How can you prevent an infection from happening? Follow the safety precaution tips below: 

• Wash before and after: Wash your genitals and hands before engaging in sexual activities to kill off bacteria and reduce the spread. After giving or receiving a handjob, wash again before touching your face, mouth, or genitals. 
• Avoid contact with bumps or wounds: Small, round bumps, warts, or lesions often signify an STD. If you notice your partner has any lumps, refrain from contact. If you still wish to continue, cover the infected area. 
• Use the barrier method: Barriers include condoms for the penis, internal condoms for vaginas, or dental dams for the anus or vulva. Such tools are effective for preventing STDs during all sexual contact activities. 
• Sanitize all toys: Certain STDs spread through inanimate objects, such as sex toys. We recommend sanitizing all toys before and after each partner uses them to reduce the spread. 
• Minimize sex partners: The fewer partners, the less likely you’ll contract an STD. You should stick with people you know and trust, especially those who regularly receive testing. 
• File your fingernails: Long, sharp fingernails could scrape or cut skin. Minor wounds increase your chances of contracting an infection. File down your nails to keep your skin intact. 
• Use different hands: A leading cause of STDs from handjobs is when one person touches their own infected area before touching their partner's genitals. You and your partner should always use different hands when manipulating yourselves and each other. 
• Encourage your partner to take a rapid STD test: Anyone participating in handjobs should regularly receive STD screenings. Learning about potential conditions helps you reduce the spread and get ahead on treatments. You can order same-day STD testing for fast and convenient results from Rapid STD Testing or visit a local clinic. 
• Watch out for symptoms: If you notice any symptoms, you should stop having sex immediately and get tested as soon as you can. The sooner you treat your condition, the more likely you can enjoy a full recovery (depending on the type of infection).

What symptoms should you watch out for? 

• Bumps or lesions around the genitals or mouth
• Strange discharge smell or consistency coming from the vagina or penis
• Pain when urinating
• A constant need to urinate
• Pain, itching, or swelling around the genitals
• Fever
• Genital redness
• Abdominal discomfort
• Pain during sex
• Discolored urine  

If you notice any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor to discuss treatment options. Depending on your condition, you might need a topical ointment, prescription antibiotic, antiviral drug, or more.

Manual Sex Isn’t Safe From STDs—Get Tested Today!

Can you get an STD from a handjob? Yes, so you and your partner should receive regular STD screenings to avoid accidentally infecting each other. At Rapid STD Testing, we offer a comprehensive 10-panel STD test for all the most common bacterial and viral infections. 

To learn more, call us at (866) 872-1888 to speak with our Rapid STD Testing team or visit a local clinic!