Answer:
by Georgan Gregg: ()
Traditionally, lesbians were believed to have a lower risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) than gay men or heterosexual men & women. Women who have sex with women (WSW) may or may not identify as lesbian, but are at risk for many STD's, including HIV/AIDS. Recently it’s been found that WSW are having higher incidence of AIDS than in the past. WSW are also at definite risk for genital herpes, genital warts, yeast infections & hepatitis C.
Why is this the case? For one thing, let’s be clear that sexual identity - that is, how one thinks of oneself or labels oneself - does not necessarily predict behavior. For instance, WSW or lesbians may be at risk for STD/HIV through unprotected sex with men & injection drug use. But it’s also important to understand that female-to-female sexual contact can transmit STD/HIV. Sexual contact that includes mucous membrane, such as mouth to vagina (cunnilingus), can definitely transmit infections. The partner giving or receiving cunnilingus is at risk from potentially infectious vaginal fluid, lesions, or blood. Risk is highest if there is any break in the mucous membrane, from flossing or dental work, for example, &/or if menstrual blood is present.
Whereas latex or polyurethane condoms are the protection to be used whenever there is penis-vagina, penis-rectum or penis-mouth sexual contact, clear plastic wrap, latex dental dams or cut-open latex condoms should be used for mouth to vagina or mouth to rectum sexual contact. In addition, condoms should be used when using sex toys, with a new condom to be used if the sex toys are shared.
I recommend that women learn their own & their partner’s HIV status. This can help uninfected women begin &/or continue behavior that reduces their risk of becoming infected. For women who find they are infected, treatment options can be utilized as early as feasible & sexual responsibility can help avoid infecting others.
Thanks for bringing up this important topic. Further questions are most welcome!Reviewed by: Patricia Fawver Ph.D. in Sexology
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