Can STIs be transmitted via oral sex?
Oral sex can be very pleasurable for individuals involved. Yet, many people do not do it safely because they assume it doesn’t carry any risks. The truth is that certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be transmitted from non-penetrative sexual activities.
STIs can be transmitted through oral sex when infected bodily fuilds e.g. semen and vaginal discharge come into contact with your or your partner’s mouth. This can also happen when there is skin-to-skin contact between the mouth and genitals or anus where one or both partners have an STI.
Another way this can happen is when someone with an STI in their mouth or throat performs oral sex on a partner, or vice versa.
While the risk of STI transmission via oral sex is generally lower compared to penetrative intercourse, we cannot ignore the risks. Women are at a higher risk than men here because of factors such as how their genitals are more open compared to men’s.
Examples of STIs that can be transmitted through oral sex include:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV)
- Human papillomavirus (HPV);
- And, in rare cases, HIV
The good news is that you can have safe oral sex by using preventive measures to protect yourself from these STIs.
Use a barrier method for prevention
Condoms and dental dams are effective barrier methods to reduce the risk os transmission of STIs. It’s important to educate yourself and others about how to use them and their importance in protecting yourself against STIs.
Male Condoms: Male condoms can be used as barrier methods to prevent STIs during oral sex. Specifically, scented condoms have been made to ensure that oral sex can be enjoyable to both the giver and receiver. Condoms, when correctly and consistently used, can reduce the risk of STI transmission.
Dental Dams: Dental dams are flat sheets made of polyurethane or latex used as a barrier method during oral sex. They are lubricated on one side, which is applied against the vulva or anus, ensuring it sticks properly. It is recommended to avoid using oil-based lubricants with dental dams as they can damage the material.
Dental dams are placed flat over the vulva or anus, covering the entire area to prevent exposure to bodily fluids. If there is an interruption during oral sex, a new dental dam should be used.
Always check for tears before application and remember that they are single-use only and should be disposed of after use.
In case a dental dam is not available to you, a modified dental dam can be made from a male condom by cutting off the tip and ring and then slicing the cylinder along one side to create a square sheet. Below is a picture:
Other methods that can help reduce the risk of STI transmission from oral sex are regular STI testing and reducing the number of sexual partners.
Good oral hygiene practices and avoiding oral sex when sores or infections are present are also important.
Remember, prevention is better than cure—protect yourself and your partners.