Is Oral Sex Safe?
Anyone who insists that unprotected oral sex is a safe way to enjoy sexual pleasure is sadly misinformed. The practice of oral sex poses the very real risk of transmitting a variety of sexual diseases (STDs) through the transfer of body fluids. Engaging in oral sex requires as much caution as having vaginal or anal sex.
Practice Protection
To keep your sex life healthy, you must take proper protective measures when practicing oral sex. This includes cunnilingus, fellatio, rimming, or digital sex/fisting/fingering.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Some of the most deadly sexually transmitted infections described below can occur during oral sex:
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)- Any open cut inside the mouth increases the risk of transmitting HIV during oral sex. If virus-infected ejaculate enters that wound, blood surrounding the wound area becomes infected. Use of latex or polyurethane condoms, female condoms, or dental dams is essential for minimizing the possibility of HIV transmission.
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)- Papilloma virus infection during oral sex has been directly linked to oral and throat cancer. Although condoms can help minimize the transmission risk, be aware that HPV also spreads through skin or soft tissue contact.
Hepatitis B- Oral-anal sex dramatically increases the risk of Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B infection. Sex partners who practice rimming on a regular basis should obtain both hepatitis A and B vaccinations.
Bluntly stated, performing oral sex increases your risk of transmitting or receiving STDs. Practice smart sexual behavior by adopting proper safety measures. If you believe you have been harmed by a sex partner who placed you at STD risk by not practicing safe sex, contact our Palm Springs personal injury legal counsel for further guidance.
