Oral Sex and STI's

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The Truth About Oral Sex & STIs: What Gay Men Need to Know

When it comes to safe sex, most gay men know that condoms are crucial for protecting against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during anal sex. But what about oral sex? Many people assume that oral sex is "safe" or that the risk of contracting STIs is minimal. The truth is, unless you're using condoms for oral sex as well as anal sex, you're not fully protected against STIs.




Can You Get an STI from Oral Sex?

Absolutely. Many STIs can be transmitted through oral sex. The mouth, throat, and lips can all act as entry points for infections, and certain STIs are easily transmitted via oral contact.

STIs That Can Be Transmitted Through Oral Sex

Here are some of the most common STIs that can be spread through oral sex:

1. Gonorrhea

  • Oral gonorrhea (pharyngeal gonorrhea) is a common STI that can infect the throat.

  • Symptoms: Often asymptomatic, but can cause sore throat, redness, and difficulty swallowing.

  • Transmission Risk: High if your partner is infected 

2. Chlamydia

  • Less common in the throat than gonorrhea, but still possible.

  • Symptoms: Usually none, but some may experience throat discomfort.

  • Transmission Risk: Moderate

3. Syphilis

  • Syphilis can be spread through oral sex, particularly during the primary and secondary stages when sores (chancres) or rashes are present.

  • Symptoms: Painless sores in the mouth, rash on the body, flu-like symptoms.

  • Transmission Risk: High, if contact with a syphilis sore is present


4. Herpes (HSV-1 & HSV-2)

  • Both strains of herpes can be transmitted through oral sex.

  • Symptoms: Painful sores, blisters, flu-like symptoms.

  • Transmission Risk: High, especially if sores are present, but transmission can also occur without visible symptoms.

5. HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

  • HPV can infect the mouth and throat and is associated with oral and throat cancers.

  • Symptoms: Often none, but some strains cause warts.

  • Transmission Risk: High, especially with unprotected oral sex.

6. HIV

  • While the risk of HIV transmission through oral sex is lower than with anal sex, it is not zero.

  • Factors increasing risk: Open sores, bleeding gums, ejaculation in the mouth.

  • Transmission Risk: Low to moderate, but present.


Protecting Yourself: Safer Oral Sex Practices

If you want to reduce your risk while still enjoying oral sex, consider these strategies

  • Practice good oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing can cause small cuts in your mouth, increasing the risk of infection. Rinse with mouthwash instead before oral sex.

  • Be aware of sores or symptoms: Avoid oral sex if you or your partner have visible sores, cuts, or any signs of infection.

  • Get tested regularly: Regular STI screenings help catch infections early and prevent transmission
  • Consider DoxyPEP

The Bottom Line

Oral sex is often seen as a lower-risk activity, but this is debatable it still carries the potential for STI transmission. If your throat isn't being swabbed regularly to test for GC/Chlam in particular you may not even know if you have these and can spread infection. If you're not using condoms for oral sex, you're not fully protected. Taking steps to reduce risk and getting tested regularly, can help you enjoy a safer and healthier sex life.

Stay informed, stay safe, and keep the conversation going. Your health matters!

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