Oral sex is a common sexual practice that involves the stimulation of the genitals using the mouth. It is widely regarded as a safe sexual activity that does not carry many risks.

However, recent studies have suggested that oral sex can increase the risk of oral cancer. In this article, we explore the connection between oral sex and oral cancer and what steps you can take to reduce your risk.

What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects the mouth and throat. It can develop in any part of the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, and back of the throat.

Oral cancer is commonly associated with tobacco and alcohol use, but it can also be caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause cancers in the genital area, as well as the mouth and throat.

What’s the Connection Between Oral Sex and Oral Cancer?

Recent studies have suggested that there is a link between oral sex and oral cancer. One study found that people who had six or more oral sex partners had a higher risk of developing oral cancer than those who had fewer partners.

This is because HPV can be transmitted through oral sex, and HPV infection is a major risk factor for oral cancer.

HPV can infect the mouth and throat just as it can the genitals. Most people who contract HPV will not develop cancer, but some people will. HPV-related oral cancers are on the rise, especially among younger people.

This is because HPV is easily transmitted through oral sex and because many people are not aware that oral sex can lead to HPV infection.

What Steps Can You Take to Reduce Your Risk of Oral Cancer?

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of oral cancer. These include:.

1. Practice Safe Sex

Using condoms or dental dams during oral sex can reduce your risk of HPV infection. While condoms are not 100% effective at preventing HPV transmission, they can reduce your risk significantly.

2. Get Vaccinated

The HPV vaccine is recommended for all boys and girls ages 11-12, as well as for men up to age 26 and women up to age 45. The vaccine can prevent the most common strains of HPV that are responsible for most HPV-related cancers, including oral cancer.

3. Get Screened Regularly

Regular dental check-ups can help detect oral cancer early. During a dental exam, your dentist will examine your mouth and throat for signs of oral cancer, such as sores, white or red patches, or lumps.

Early detection of oral cancer can significantly increase your chances of a successful treatment outcome.

4. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption

Tobacco and alcohol use are major risk factors for oral cancer. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can significantly reduce your risk of oral cancer, as well as many other types of cancer and health problems.

Conclusion

While oral sex is a common sexual activity that does not carry many risks, it can increase the risk of oral cancer if proper precautions are not taken.

Practicing safe sex, getting vaccinated, getting screened regularly, and quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can all help reduce your risk of oral cancer. By taking these steps, you can protect your health and enjoy a safer, healthier sex life.