Kissing STDs

[alrightyroo]

Hello. I have my partners get tested any time I am going to get intimate, but I was wondering what the chances are of contracted a sexually transmitted disease through kissing.  I know of syphilis and herpes.  I once made out with someone who had what I think was just dryness in the crevice of his mouth (where the bottom and top lip meets-a c ommon place for dryness) , but can't be too sure.  I haven't had any symptoms since, and it took place about 4 months ago.  Not too worried about that.  However, last night someone kissed me and shoved their tongue down my throat (ugh....I wasn't even wanting this!).  We were at a gay bar and he had just kissed a gay man as well.  Not trying to stereotype as I too am gay (lesbian...somehow both of these questions are about guys though ...ha) I just know that studies have shown gay men to be more likely to carry STDs.  The guy who kissed me said he is tested every 4 months whether he is sexually active or not because he works with the public (broken glass, people who are too drunk throwing up, etc).  

Wondering if there's any validity in me bothering to get a syphilis or herpes blood test.  I get tested once a year when I go to my gyno appointment, however that won't take place until next May.  Also curious as to how long you have to wait to get a syphilis test before it shows up... AND... if someone "gets tested" for STDs... is a syph test customary.  Most people get tested but don' ask what they're being tested for, an i always wonder waht STDs it covers.  

Thanks guys! Sorry for being such a hypochondriac! I spent most of my teen years in and out of the hospital with many pancreas problems and I think it made me a bit too cautious and worrisome.  Never want to deal with those things again!

[alrightyroo]

Hmm so  I guess syphllis isn't really a worry then... Thanks for the post :)

[skatardpoet]

strep is going around. Also, herpes usually develops cold sores. Syphillis would probably be very obvious if there were visible signs of it going on. If you have swollen tonsils and white coating junk, you probably have strep, mono, or a staff infection, as they all are contracted from a similar virus.

[alrightyroo]

Also wanted to know how long it takes for any kissing STDs to show symptoms.  I'm sure not the next day.  My glands are swollen and my throat is sore but it's cold season so I don't blame it on anything.  Anyway, just curious how long it takes to show.  Thanks!