Can you get a STI from oral sex?

Verified by Dr. Vaishali Sakpal Rane (MBBS, DGO Obstetrics and Gynaecology, DNB Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Using the lips and tongue, oral sex involves stimulating the genitalia. STIs are one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) spread by this method. If you just have one sexual partner, you might have a STI. However, the chance of contracting an illness increases with the number of partners you have.

Some individuals wrongly think that the transmission of STDs during oral intercourse is uncommon or unheard of. But it is possible to get a STI through oral sex; in fact, some STIs, including genital herpes and gonorrhoea, are more frequently transmitted through oral sex than other STIs, like HIV. Because oral sex requires intimate contact and frequently involves the exchange of body fluids, it is possible to catch numerous STIs through this type of sex.

STIs are transferred by coming into touch with body fluids or skin that has the infection. Diverse STIs transmit through various body fluids and at varying speeds. The likelihood of contracting a STI is influenced by a number of variables. Depending on the infection type, a STI might have a variety of symptoms. However, if caught early enough, the majority of STIs are curable. STIs may have a significant negative impact on your health and fertility in addition to being painful and unsightly if they are not treated.

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By making sure that either you or your partner is using a condom, you can lessen the chance of STI transmission during oral sex. During oral sex, you can conceal the female genitalia or anus using a dental dam. A dental dam is a 15 cm by 15 cm square piece of latex or polyurethane (a very thin, soft material). It functions as a barrier to assist prevent the spread of STIs from one person to the next.

Sexually active adults should see a doctor about the dangers of having oral sex with an infected person. In some circumstances, a person can take preventative measures to avoid catching the virus.

In all situations, people may make good judgments with the aid of open discussion with a partner and staying current on trustworthy medical knowledge.