We learn about ‘em in junior high—and then just like eighth grade algebra (I have yet to use one of those equations) we forget. Yeah, I’m talking about Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). Maybe it’s fear, maybe it’s ignorance, or maybe it’s apathy. It doesn’t really matter because whatever it is, it’s very real. An estimated one in five people in the U.S. have an STD. Scary.
So how do we make it stop? Well, I’ll start by correcting this widely held misconception: It’s impossible to get STDs from oral sex. Way too many people actually believe this. They think, “Oral sex isn’t real sex, so I’m safe.” Wrong. In all actuality a lot of STDs are contracted this way because more than 70 percent of our population prefers oral sex to any other type of sexual activity. I chalk this up to the large percentage of women who can only reach orgasm through cunninglus. So although oral sex is a safe pastime in terms of keeping buns outta the oven, it can be quite risky when it comes to STDs.
Here’s the breakdown:
HIV: The risk is very low, but it’s there. Chances for contracting the virus increase if the performer has cuts or sores in their mouth, if ejaculation occurs in the mouth, and/or if the receiver has any other STDs. The major risk is for the performer, but unless he/she just had their wisdom teeth pulled and are oozing blood, oral sex is relatively safe. And if that scenario has actually ever happened, let me know because that is just pure dedication. Safety Tip: Condoms and dental dams.
Herpes: Genital herpes and oral herpes are usually caused by different strains of the virus (HSV-2 and HSV-1), but it’s possible for either virus to infect the other site. Example: Oral herpes can be transmitted to the genitals and vice versa. Herpes are contagious even when there are no symptoms, and this virus can be spread through skin-to-skin contact. Safety Tip: Condoms, clean the play area well, and prescription medications (for those already diagnosed).
HPV: Throat cancer is thought to be a result of contracting HPV while performing oral sex. This one is similar to Herpes in that it can be spread via skin-to-skin contact. Safety Tip: Condoms and dental dams may lower risk, but don’t eliminate it.
Gonorrhea: It can be transmitted to both partners during the act of fellatio. It’s still up in the air as to whether or not the same applies to cunninglus, as the site of infection is the cervix—a tad hard to reach during this act. Mix the Clap and oral sex and you just might get a throat infection. A very difficult to treat throat infection. Safety Tip: Condoms and dental dams.
Chlamydia: Performing and receiving fellatio—unprotected—put people at high risk for transmitting this bugger. Research regarding cunninglus and Chlamydia is still unclear. Safety Tip: Condoms and dental dams should be effective.
Syphilis: Super easy to transmit through oral sex. One good thing: It can only be transmitted when symptoms are present, during the first and second stages of the disease. One bad thing: The painless sores it causes are hard to spot. Safety Tip: Condoms, dental dams.
Of course, it’s always a good idea to talk to your partner about STDs and practice monogamy. Or abstinence, but I don’t think that’s practical—or fun. Also, limit the number of partners you have (your risk increases as your partners do), and have regular check-ups and ask, specifically to be tested.
