Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a growing concern, and while many people associate them with genitalia, the truth is that several STIs can also be transmitted through oral sex.

In fact, oral sex is becoming an increasingly common mode of transmission for STIs, so it’s important to understand the risks and take preventative measures to protect yourself and your sexual partners.

1. Herpes

Herpes is a viral infection that can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, including oral sex.

Oral herpes, or cold sores, are most commonly caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), but they can also be caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Symptoms of oral herpes include tingling or itching around the mouth, fever, and swollen glands. Once infected, the virus can stay dormant in the body for years and cause recurrent outbreaks.

Prevention: Use a dental dam or condom during oral sex to reduce the risk of transmission. If you have oral herpes, avoid kissing or performing oral sex during an outbreak.

2. Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It often causes no symptoms, but when it does, they can include painful urination, discharge, and swelling in the genital area.

If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to serious health problems, including infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease.

Prevention: Use a dental dam or condom during oral sex to reduce the risk of transmission. Get tested regularly for STIs if you are sexually active.

3. Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It often causes no symptoms, but when it does, they can include pain during sex, discharge, and pain or bleeding while urinating.

If left untreated, chlamydia can cause serious health problems, including infertility.

Prevention: Use a dental dam or condom during oral sex to reduce the risk of transmission. Get tested regularly for STIs if you are sexually active.

4. Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Symptoms of syphilis include sores or ulcers on the genitals, mouth, or rectum, as well as rash, fever, and swollen glands.

If left untreated, syphilis can cause serious health problems, including damage to the heart and brain.

Prevention: Use a dental dam or condom during oral sex to reduce the risk of transmission. Get tested regularly for STIs if you are sexually active.

Conclusion

While oral sex is generally considered a safer alternative to vaginal or anal sex, it is still important to understand the risks associated with it in terms of STIs.

Using protective barriers such as dental dams or condoms can greatly reduce the risk of transmission, as can getting tested regularly if you are sexually active. By being aware of the potential risks and taking the appropriate precautions, you can help protect yourself and your partners from the spread of STIs.