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HIV transmission sharing a smoke

A reader shared a pipe with a stranger whose lips were bleeding from dryness and cracking, and now worries about HIV transmission, asking whether they should get tested or if their fear is unfounded.

Answered by Zelik Mintz, LCSW, LP

Question

Can I get HIV if I shared a pipe with some guy that had bleeding lips? It was really dark in the park and my buddy saw this guy that he knew, that is practically a homeless dude, and the guy asked if he could have a few tokes. Since I was baked, I did not even think to worry about sharing a little herb.

Then we walked into the street light and I saw this guy's lips were bleeding from being so dry and cracked. I am freaked out and I can't stop thinking about this. Should I get tested or am I being paranoid?

First I'd like to suggest that you get tested. I recommend this because of your anxiety about sero-converting to HIV rather than because I think transmission in your case is likely. Although theoretically possible to transmit HIV by sharing a smoke with someone who has bleeding gums or mouth, transmission needs an avenue to enter directly into the bloodstream - cuts or abrasions in your mouth. Hearing that HIV in your case is very unlikely will probably not be enough to fully relieve anxiety. Talking to a physician and testing negative will hopefully be more effective in lessening your worry and concern.

Lightly edited for readability. This question and the expert’s answer were edited by AI for spelling, grammar, and formatting only — the original wording and meaning are unchanged. See how we moderate.

About the Expert

Zelik Mintz

LCSW, LP

New York City, United States of America

Specialties

Gay Lesbian Issues, Sex Therapy, Anxiety or Fears, Addiction or Substance Abuse, Parenting, Chronic Pain or Illness, Impulse Control Disorders, Relationship Issues, Loss or Grief, Depression

License

my_license #R051279

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