References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
HIV transmission through sex between women is possible, but the risk is very low compared to other sexual activities. Documented cases are rare. The risk comes from contact with vaginal fluids, menstrual blood or shared sex toys that could carry the virus.
Here’s what we know about the risk, the routes, and how to protect yourself.
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How Could HIV Be Transmitted Between Women?
Possible routes include:
- Oral sex when menstrual blood or vaginal fluids contact broken skin or mucous membranes in the mouth
- Sharing penetrative sex toys without cleaning or covering them between uses
- Rough sexual activity that causes cuts, tears or bleeding
- Digital penetration with cuts or broken skin on the hands
How High Is the Risk?
| Activity | Risk Level |
|---|---|
| Oral sex on a woman | Very low |
| Sharing sex toys without a barrier | Low (higher if blood present) |
| Digital penetration | Very low unless cuts present |
| Scissoring/tribbing | Theoretical but extremely low |
There are very few confirmed cases of HIV transmission between women through sex alone. Most cases where women who have sex with women acquire HIV involve other risk factors such as injecting drug use or sex with men.
How to Reduce Risk
- Dental dams — a thin latex barrier used during oral sex reduces fluid contact
- Clean or cover sex toys — use a new condom on shared toys between partners
- Gloves for digital penetration if you have cuts or broken skin
- Avoid oral sex during menstruation if HIV status is uncertain
- Regular STI testing for both partners
- PrEP is available for women at risk — discuss with your sexual health clinic
Other STIs Between Women
While HIV risk is very low between women, other STIs transmit more easily:
- Herpes — very common through skin contact
- HPV — common through genital contact
- Bacterial vaginosis — often shared between female partners
- Chlamydia, gonorrhoea — less common but possible
- Syphilis — can be transmitted through any contact with sores
Regular STI screening is recommended for all sexually active women, regardless of the gender of their partners.
Read more: What is HIV? | PrEP benefits and risks | What is herpes?
Frequently Asked Questions
Do women who have sex with women need HIV tests?
Yes. Testing is recommended for everyone who is sexually active. While female-to-female transmission is rare, other risk factors may be present.
Can I get PrEP as a woman who has sex with women?
Yes, if your sexual health clinic assesses that you have risk factors. PrEP is available free on the NHS for anyone at higher risk.
Should I use dental dams?
Dental dams reduce the risk of HIV and other STIs during oral sex. Many people find them inconvenient, so the decision is yours — regular testing is an important alternative safety net.
Related reading
- Common STI Symptoms in Women
- What Is a Female (Internal) Condom?
- Can You Catch an STI From a Toilet Seat?
- Can You Get Chlamydia From Kissing?
- Can You Get Herpes From a Toilet Seat?
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
