Oral sex involves stimulating your partner's genitals using the mouth, lips, tongue, or teeth. It may be performed on either gender, including men, women, non-binary people, or transgender individuals. Most people who engage in oral sex do it for pleasure and enjoyment. However, there are also some risks involved when practicing oral sex without taking appropriate precautions. One such risk is contracting an infection through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal discharge, and saliva. This can occur during unprotected oral sex and lead to serious health problems. In this article, we will explore how oral sex can transmit infections like HPV and why protection is recommended.
Oral sex can transfer various types of infections that affect different parts of the body. For example, herpes simplex virus (HSV) can cause sores around the mouth or genital area. If a person has active cold sores on their mouth or genitals, they should avoid performing oral sex until they heal completely. Additionally, gonorrhea and chlamydia, two common sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can spread through oral sex if left untreated. These infections can cause painful urination, abnormal bleeding, and pain during sexual intercourse. However, the most significant concern is human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a group of over 100 viruses that causes warts, cervical cancer, anal cancer, and throat cancer. It is one of the most common STIs in the world, affecting millions of people annually.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using condoms or dental dams when engaging in oral sex. Condoms are latex or polyurethane sheets designed to cover the penis or other sex toys during penetration. They reduce the risk of HIV transmission but do not protect against all STDs. A dental dam is a thin, square sheet made from latex or polyurethane that acts as a barrier between the mouth and the genitals or anus. It should be placed over the vulva or anus before oral sex begins and removed immediately afterward. Using either condoms or dental dams reduces the risk of contracting HPV or any other infection during oral sex.
In conclusion, practicing safe oral sex involves taking appropriate precautions to avoid contracting HPV or other infections. By wearing a condom or dental dam, you can protect yourself and your partner from harm. If you have symptoms like sores around the mouth or genitals, avoid performing oral sex until they heal completely. Remember that oral sex can still transmit infections if you share drinks with your partner or engage in rough sex practices like biting or scratching. Always communicate openly with your partner about your sexual health history and discuss potential risks before engaging in intimacy.: