BBV & STI

Sexually transmissible infections (STI) are caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. They are transmitted from one person to another by skin-to-skin contact or contact with bodily fluids such as pre-cum, vaginal and anal secretions, breast milk, and semen (cum). Typically, the organisms that cause STI enter the body through broken skin or mucous membranes, which are the warm, moist surfaces including the vagina, urethra, anus, mouth, and eyes. Mucous membranes are much thinner and more easily damaged than regular skin.

Blood borne viruses (BBV) can be spread from one person to another through blood-to-blood contact or when infected bodily fluids enter the bloodstream. Vaginal or anal sex can cause tiny cuts (sometimes called micro-tears) in mucous membranes, especially where there is not enough lubrication. This damage can be so minor that you don’t even notice it, but it can provide an entry point for BBVs. People infected with a BBV may show little or no symptoms, and others may get severe symptoms. BBV can be passed on whether the person has symptoms or not.