Expert: John Thai, M.D. - 4/21/2008

Question
I've heard one can become infected by having sex with someone HIV positive if you have a sore in your mouth.  the only sores I get are when I accidently bite my lip.  How long does a bitten lip take to heal before it is safe to have sex?

Answer
Hi Steve,

Any open lesions which breaks the protective barrier inside the mouth - ulcers, sore, etc - may increase the risk of infections. the lips also have protective barriers from infections. The time it takes for an open lesion to heal depends on the severity of the lesion. It may take a few days and up to 2 weeks in duration. You can continue to have safe sex by avoiding any oral activities until the lesion is healed.


John Thai, MD