Can You Get an STD from Touching Yourself? What You Should Know

Let’s be honest — many people worry about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) but feel too embarrassed to ask the real questions, like: Can you get an STD from touching yourself?

The short answer is: No, you can’t give yourself an STD just from masturbation — as long as you’re using clean hands and no infected bodily fluids are involved. However, there are some important exceptions and hygiene tips you should know.

Let’s break it down in detail, with medically backed information so you can feel confident about your sexual health.

Can You Give Yourself a Sexually Transmitted Disease?

You cannot “create” an STD by yourself through masturbation. STDs (or STIs — sexually transmitted infections) are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that must be transmitted from one infected person to another through sexual contact or exposure to infected fluids.

So, if you’re not in contact with someone who has an STD, you can’t catch one just from touching your own body.

However, there are two rare ways that infections can be spread through self-touch:

1. If you already have an infection in one area (like herpes or HPV on your genitals or mouth) and then touch another part of your body, you might transfer the virus there.

   • For example, someone with a cold sore who touches their mouth and then their genitals could, in rare cases, spread oral herpes to their genitals.

2. If you use contaminated objects (like unclean sex toys or towels) that have infectious fluids on them, you could risk infection.

Can You Get an STD from Masturbating?

No — masturbating by yourself does not cause STDs. But if masturbation involves sharing toys or touching someone else’s genitals, that’s when there’s potential for transmission.

Here’s how to keep things 100% safe:

• Wash your hands before and after.

• Use clean sex toys every time.

• Avoid sharing toys unless they are properly sanitized or covered with a condom.

• Be cautious with cuts or sores — open skin increases infection risk.

Can You Get an STD from Hand Relief or Hand Jobs?

A common search term is “can you get an STD from a hand job?” or “can you get an STI from hand relief?”

Here’s the truth:

• The risk is very low — skin-to-skin contact through the hands rarely transmits infections.

• However, a few STDs can spread if infected fluids (semen, vaginal fluid, or blood) come in contact with cuts, hangnails, or open sores on the hand.

• Herpes and HPV are examples of infections that can spread through direct skin contact, though it’s rare through the hands.

Possible Scenarios

• If someone with genital herpes gives a hand job and has an active sore, transmission could occur.

• If bodily fluids from an infected partner touch a cut on your hand, there’s a small risk for infections like Hepatitis B.

But again — for most people, hand jobs and hand relief carry extremely low to no STD risk.

Can You Get an STI from Masturbating with a Partner?

Masturbation between partners (mutual masturbation) is one of the safest forms of sexual activity, but there’s still a small risk if fluids are exchanged.

For example:

• If you touch your partner’s genitals and then touch your own without washing your hands, you could transfer viruses like HPV or herpes.

• Always wash your hands or use gloves if either person has visible sores or lesions.

So while mutual masturbation is low-risk, it’s not completely risk-free if proper hygiene isn’t followed.

Can Virgins Have STDs?

Another common question is: “Can I have an STD if I’ve never had sex?”

Technically, yes, but it’s uncommon. Some STIs, such as HPV or herpes, can spread through non-penetrative skin contact or oral exposure. Also, Hepatitis B and HIV can spread through shared needles, blood, or childbirth — not just sex.

So being a virgin doesn’t guarantee you’re 100% risk-free, but it significantly lowers your chances.

STDs That Don’t Spread Through Touching or Masturbation

It helps to know which infections require sexual contact to spread. You cannot get these from touching yourself:

• Chlamydia

• Gonorrhea

• Syphilis

• Trichomoniasis

• HIV

• Hepatitis B or C (except through blood-to-blood contact)

These diseases require exchange of bodily fluids — so solo masturbation, done hygienically, poses zero risk.

What About Skin Conditions That Look Like STDs?

Sometimes, what looks like an STD might just be a non-infectious skin condition, like:

• Folliculitis (ingrown hairs)

• Razor bumps

• Yeast infections

• Allergic reactions or irritation

If you notice unusual bumps, itching, or discharge, don’t panic — but do see a healthcare provider to confirm. It’s always better to check early.

Tips to Stay Safe and Hygienic

Even though masturbation is safe, here are a few simple precautions for total peace of mind:

1. Wash your hands before and after touching your genitals.

2. Clean toys properly after each use (with warm water and antibacterial soap).

3. Avoid sharing toys or using a new condom on them between partners.

4. Avoid contact if you have open sores, cuts, or infections.

5. Visit a clinic regularly if you’re sexually active — routine STI screening keeps you safe and confident.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

Even with low-risk activities, you should contact your provider if you notice:

• Burning or pain during urination

• Unusual discharge

• Itching or irritation that doesn’t go away

• Bumps, sores, or rashes

Early testing helps catch issues before they worsen — and most STIs are treatable with antibiotics or antiviral medication.

Final Thoughts

So, can you get an STD from touching yourself?
👉 No — not if you’re clean and not exposed to someone else’s fluids.

Masturbation is a normal, healthy, and safe sexual activity that carries virtually zero risk for STDs, as long as you maintain good hygiene and avoid cross-contamination.

If you’re ever unsure, don’t self-diagnose — visit a healthcare provider like Medhaven Health in Glen Burnie for confidential testing and guidance.

Disclaimer: This is informational content, not a substitute for professional medical advice.