Written by Hannah Kingston on August 2nd, 2021
Can you get an STD from a toilet seat? Today we talk you through the what, whys and hows of STD transmission.
Can you get an STD from a toilet seat?
No is the simple answer. You cannot get an STD from a toilet seat.
Sexually transmitted diseases are most commonly contracted through vaginal, anal and oral sex.
Most bacterial, viral and parasitic sexually transmitted diseases are passed from one person to another when the bacteria, virus or parasite enters your body through mucous membranes .
Mucous membranes is the term used to describe the type of skin that covers the mouth, genitals or anus.
Sexually transmitted diseases can be transmitted via:
- Genital to genital contact
- Skin to skin contact
- Oral to genital contact
In theory, it could be argued that certain sexually transmitted diseases could be transmitted via a toilet seat, due to the fact that certain STDs can live outside of the body.
Viral and parasitic STDs can live outside of your body for a limited period of time. Bacterial sexually transmitted diseases cannot live outside of the body.
Read: Can you get an STD from kissing?
What STI can you get from a toilet seat?
Though it is highly unlikely that you could get an STI from a toilet seat, there are some claims that trichomoniasis and hepatitis B could be transmitted via a toilet seat.
It is so unlikely however, that there is no need to start worrying about the chances of getting an STD from a toilet seat, because the risk is so low.
Sexually transmitted diseases, whether they’re bacterial, fungal or viral prefer warm and moist environments.
Read: Can you get an STD from oral sex?
What are the chances of getting an STD from a toilet seat?
The chances of getting an STD from a toilet seat is so low that no statistics exist on the chances of getting an STD from a toilet seat.
It is possible to get an STD through means that do not involve having sex.
Some of the most common ways that you could get an STD without having unprotected penetrative sex include:
- Kissing
- Oral sex
- Intimate skin-to-skin contact
- Masturbating
- Sharing needles
- Sharing razors
- Ingesting contaminated foods
- Sharing sheets or towels
- The use of tanning beds
- Congenitally (Mother to baby during childbirth)
Read: Can you get an STD without having sex?
In conclusion, you should not be worried about catching an STD from a toilet seat, because the chances are so low! The best thing you can do for your sexual health is practice safe sex. Always wear a condom and have open honest conversations with your sexual partners.
References
- Can you get an STD from kissing? - stdwatch.com
- Can You Get an STI/STD from a Toilet Seat? - healthline.com
- Can you get an STD from oral sex? - stdwatch.com
- Can you get an STD without having sex? - stdwatch.com
