Safe Oral Sex for Men and Women

Men and women should be aware of the potential risks when it comes to oral sex. Many have long thought that practicing oral sex was a safer alternative than vaginal sex. However, you may be surprised to know that there is a risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease through oral sex.

There are a number of STDs that can transmit through oral sex such as, Syphilis, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis, Herpes, Chlamydia or human papillomavirus (HPV), including numerous others such as HIV. Although the risk of getting HIV through oral sex is much lower than through vaginal sex or anal sex, there is an increased risk of infection if there are open wounds or sores on or around the mouth or genitals.

The mouth is especially sensitive and can develop microscopic wounds or abrasions from activities such as, flossing, brushing your teeth, dental work, or eating foods like crisps.

Research has found that HPV transmitted through oral sex could result in a major risk of throat cancer, and is also believed to be linked to head and neck cancer in those patients who were infected by HPV through oral sex.

Gonorrhea can also cause infections through oral sex, and has been also widely noted to cause serious throat infections. However, this is more common to happen during fellatio, and less likely when performing cunnilingus. The reason for this is because the area of infection occurs deep inside in the cervix, therefore being out of reach of the person’s mouth that is performing cunnilingus.

Syphilis is the known to be the easiest STD to spread through oral sex. In some areas of the US, syphilis through oral sex accounts for 15 of syphilis infections.

The risks associated with oral sex can be lowered by practicing safe sex and being responsible. Many medical experts have recommended that people use dental dams or condoms when practicing oral sex with an unknown or new partner.

A dental dam is a piece of latex shaped like a thin small square, and is used for protecting the mouth during oral sex. It can be very effective in reducing the risks STDs during oral sex. They act as a barrier between sexual fluids and your mouth.

In summary, when practicing oral sex, and you do not know the STD status of your partner, make sure that your mouth has no sores, wounds or bleeding gums. Always use dental dams when practicing oral sex. Likewise, be cautious of wounds or sores in and around the genitals of your partner, and avoid direct contact with these areas at all costs.

If you have reason to believe you may have been infected, you should go to see a doctor immediately.

Popularity: 6% [?]