Many people consider oral sex as a safer alternative to penetrative sex but does it mean that you can engage in oral sex without protection?
Oral sex is widely used among gays and involves oral stimulation of the penis (felatio) or analingus (on the anus). It is known that the lining of the mouth, genitalia and anus provide a good environment for different bacteria and viruses that may trigger STD's. There can be several factors that may contribute to the transmission of the infection. If the receiving or performing partner hs sores, open wounds or cuts in their mouth, genitals or anus, it increases the risk of contracting STDs that can be transmitted orally.
Te known risks of acquiring sexually transmitted infection through oral sex include chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis A, herpes, HPV, shigella and syphilis. There is also a possible risk of hepatitis B and HIV infections. T is considered that the giving partner is at more risk than the receiving partner (the person being stimulated orally). This might be explained by the fact that the receptive partner comes into contact with more fluids that can transmit the infection.
Having multiple partners are at increased risk of contracting STDs and even throat cancer according to the latest studies. So, oral sex poses a certain risk on your health especially when your sex life is rather chaotic. What can be done to protect your health during oral sex?
- It is better to had tests for you and your regular partner to ensure safety for you and your partner's health. In monogamous couples when both partners are sure neither of them has any of STDs, the rsik is considered very low.
- Barrier methods offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases when used properly. You can use condoms during mouth-to-penis contact or dental dams, thin latex sheet that can be used to cover anal area for protection. Barrier methods may feel unusual during oral sex, but with some practice and some lubricant applied to the anal area or penis, it might become a better alternative to completely unsafe sex with unknown partner.
- When practicing analingus, ensure the cleanliness of anal area, washing anal area thoroughly with soap and water. You can suggest your partner taking shower together. This can become a good sensual foreplay and will make you feel more confident about your and your partner's health.
- Rinsing your mouth with water or anti-bacterial mouthwash after oral sex might be a good idea to reduce some risk.
- Avoid having oral sex just after brushing or flossing your teeth as it may result in minor cuts and will allow bacteria and viruses to pass on and increase the chances of contracting STDs.
