A team of Australian scientists from the Melbourne Center for Sexual Health conducted a meta-analysis of studies on the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases and concluded that gonorrhea can be transmitted through kissing. Scientific work published At eClinicalMedicine.
A total of 2322 people who mentioned past sexually transmitted diseases were included in the meta-analysis. Apparently, among the recorded cases of sexually transmitted disease (STD), people were infected with gonorrhea not only through sexual contact, but also through kissing. The scientists explained that in this case, gonorrhea most likely occurs in the oropharynx, which is the back of the throat.
The researchers say gonorrhea bacteria can enter the body through saliva, suggesting a potential infection through saliva exchange during kissing. In addition, the use of saliva as a lubricant during sex carries the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases.
Scientists have noted that the main way to get gonorrhea occurs during sexual contact with unprotected oral, vaginal or anal sex. Despite the risk of contracting an STD from kissing, the chance is much higher if you have sex. In this regard, scientists strongly recommend getting tested for STDs and HIV regularly.