Sex is very enjoyable, but as we know, the potential to spread infection through sex remains a risk. Herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and Human papillomavirus (HPV) are examples of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can be passed from one partner to another through sex. And oral sex is a form of Sex.
Lots of people ask about the dangers of oral sex and truth be told, the dangers of oral are no less different than the dangers of other forms of sex.
So please understand that highlighting oral sex doesn’t make it the sole means of disease transmission as infections can also spread through kissing, intercourse, anal sex, etc
Oral sex simply means Sex that is performed when the mouth is used to pleasure the genitals. Because oral sex involves sucking or licking a partner’s genitals, you’re likely to come into direct contact with genital fluids.
This could put you at risk of getting STIs. Generally, you’re more at risk of catching an STI from oral sex if:
– You have cuts, sores, or ulcers in your mouth while giving oral sex.
– You have multiple sexual partners
-You have physical contact with genitals fluids that are infected
-You don’t maintain good oral hygiene and sexual health.
Here are steps that can be taken to make oral sex safer.
Avoid oral sex and any form of contact that involves an exchange of body fluid if you or your partner has sores, cuts, bleeding, or infection around your mouth, genitals, or throat. If you are diagnosed with an infection, treat it properly before engaging in oral sex.
Maintain good sexual health
Clean your vulva or penis properly, trim your pubic hair, and wear clean briefs. Pee after Sex. Wash off after Sex. Don’t transfer fecal matter into the vagina by alternating anal sex with Penis-in-Vagina sex
Maintain good oral hygiene
Brush teeth thoroughly twice a day and floss daily between the teeth to remove dental plaque.
Look before you lick.
Just because he or she looks disease-free on the outside does not mean they are! So examine with your eyes. Lesions, growths, or unusual discharge in the genital area can be caused by a variety of STIs, and physical contact with them can result in an infection.
Use barrier methods
Correct and consistent use of protection is important in reducing your risk of transmitting and contracting sexually transmitted infections (STI). Condoms and dental dams are examples of barrier methods that can be used.
The image below shows how a dental dam can be used during oral sex.
Limit your number of sexual partners.
The more sexual partners you have, the higher your risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections. Stick to your partner. Your risk of contracting STI is low if you and your partner are infection-free and stick to each other.
Get tested for STI regularly with your partner
If you are sexually active, you should get tested for Sexually transmitted infections on a regular basis.
This is not to discourage you from receiving or giving oral sex (or any form of sex for that matter). It is to remind you to enjoy Sex responsibly.
Oral Sex can be a beautiful experience and is one of the most Intimate ways to love your partner. If you enjoy it, there’s no need to stop having or giving it but there is a need to take caution, as it is with every other form of sex