Is Monkeypox An STD?

This is a bit complicated. Usually when we talk about Sexually Transmitted Infections, (STIs) we’re talking about diseases that are passed primarily through sexual activity. This includes diseases like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.

One of the things that we often don’t get into when we talk about STIs is what is considered “sexual activity.”

When it comes to STIs and how they’re transmitted, people usually think either vaginal intercourse and/or anal intercourse. But we also have to think about other sexual activities that may carry some risk.

This includes oral sex, touching someone else’s genitals, and sharing sex toys without cleaning them properly.

Some STIs can be spread in ways other than sexual activity. Some STIs can be passed from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth. This is one of the reasons it’s important to do STI testing while you’re pregnant.

Herpes can be spread from skin to skin contact.

HIV can be spread through sharing needles.

So how does monkeypox fit in and why are some people calling it an STI?

Monkeypox is caused by a virus. It’s spread by lots of skin to skin contact and breathing really close to someone else for a period of time. Starting to see how we link it to sex?

That means that monkeypox can be spread by close contact even if there is no sexual activity – think cuddling with someone. It can also spread by kissing.

Whether we label monkeypox as an STI, or sexually associated (a term that I like that the executive director of the National Coalition of STD Directors uses to describe it) we can still take steps to protect ourselves from getting it.

I’d love to say you should have a detailed conversation with a partner about their sexual history and symptoms that may have that cause you to be concerned for your health if you choose to be sexually active with them. And in some relationships that’s absolutely possible. But for others who are engaging in casual sex that may not be a viable option.

Consider getting the vaccine, though admittedly it’s in short supply and may be hard to get.

Look at your partner’s body before sexual activity. If you see a rash, avoid contact with the rash, and maybe skin to skin contact in general with them for a few weeks.

Should you use condoms? As of right now, September 4, 2022, there hasn’t been evidence that proves that monkeypox is spread through semen. That might change as research continues.

A concern with condoms is that monkeypox isn’t limited to the genitals. This means you can use a condom and still get monkeypox from a partner.

Before you decide not to use condoms remember that they can help to protect you from other diseases that are sexually transmissible.

Until next time, be safe and have fun!

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