Concerns About STD Risks for Gay Men After Oral Sex: What You Need to Know

Q: Concerns About STD Risks for Gay Men After Oral Sex: What You Need to Know

Hello： Please test again in 6-8 weeks and then again after 3 months. <br>Additionally, if you experience skin lesions, fever, or the appearance of lumps, you should seek medical attention. <br>Changes in sexual partners are significant; what remains constant is the importance of

Gay men

Hello Doctor: Due to my concerns about sexually transmitted infections after two sexual encounters, I would like to ask again.
I am a gay man, and during the two sexual encounters, one involved a man (A) performing unprotected oral sex on me (I was the recipient), and we also engaged in kissing (not French kissing).
Afterward, I checked his mouth and it appeared normal.
The second encounter involved another man (B) performing unprotected oral sex on me (I was the recipient) and we also kissed (not French kissing), but this time I trusted him and did not check his mouth.
The last sexual encounter occurred around the end of November 2016.
Could I have contracted any sexually transmitted infections from these encounters? When is the best time to go to a medical facility for testing to ensure accuracy?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/02

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Please test again in 6-8 weeks and then again after 3 months.
Additionally, if you experience skin lesions, fever, or the appearance of lumps, you should seek medical attention.
Changes in sexual partners are significant; what remains constant is the importance of the sexual partner.
If the first partner is unknown, the risk is high.
Furthermore, so-called wounds can be difficult to detect; for example, even minor abrasions or cavities still pose a risk.
Therefore, please refrain from engaging in unsafe sexual practices.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2017/02/02

More Info

When it comes to concerns about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) for gay men, especially after engaging in oral sex, it’s essential to understand the risks involved and the steps you can take to protect your health.
Firstly, oral sex is generally considered to be a lower-risk sexual activity compared to anal or vaginal intercourse, but it is not without risks. STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and herpes can be transmitted through oral sex. The risk of transmission largely depends on several factors, including the presence of cuts or sores in the mouth, the overall health of both partners, and whether either partner has an active infection.

In your case, you mentioned that you engaged in unprotected oral sex with two partners, both of whom you did not inspect for oral health issues. While you did not observe any visible signs of infection in your first partner, it’s important to note that many STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning that a person can carry the infection without showing any symptoms. This is particularly true for infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea, which can infect the throat and may not present noticeable symptoms.

Given that you are feeling anxious about the possibility of having contracted an STD, it is advisable to get tested. The recommended timeline for STD testing after potential exposure varies depending on the specific infection. For most STDs, it is generally suggested to wait about 2 to 3 weeks after exposure for initial testing, as this allows enough time for the body to produce detectable antibodies or for the infection to manifest. However, for certain infections like HIV, it is recommended to test at 6 weeks and again at 3 months for conclusive results.

In addition to testing, it is crucial to be aware of the symptoms of STDs. If you experience any unusual symptoms such as sores, rashes, discharge, or fever, you should seek medical attention promptly. These symptoms could indicate an infection that requires treatment.

Moreover, it’s important to maintain open communication with your sexual partners about sexual health and to consider regular testing as part of your routine healthcare, especially if you are sexually active with multiple partners. Using protection, such as condoms, during oral sex can significantly reduce the risk of STD transmission.

Lastly, if you have any concerns about your sexual health or the health of your partners, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice and support based on your specific situation. Remember, taking proactive steps towards your sexual health is essential, and getting tested regularly is a responsible practice that can help you and your partners stay healthy.

Similar Q&A

Understanding STD Risks from Oral Contact: What You Need to Know

Hello Doctor: My boyfriend got drunk at a bar two weeks ago, and he recalls that a man, who appeared to be homosexual, touched his genitals and there was saliva contact. He is worried about the possibility of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as herpes or sy...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: The risk is not high. You can refer to the CDC's information regarding the risks associated with sexual behavior. Wishing you good health.

Assessing STD Risks After Oral Contact During Sexual Encounter

Engaging in sexual activity with a stranger, where oral sex was attempted but declined, and the partner still made contact with the urethral opening using their tongue, carries some risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, since you used a condom during the subseq...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Oral sex carries a moderate risk. Wishing you good health.

Concerns About HIV After Oral Sex: Understanding Symptoms and Risks

Hello doctor, last week on June 24, I went to a half-service establishment with a friend. That day, I engaged in unprotected oral sex, and I also performed oral sex on the female partner, but I am unsure if she has any sexually transmitted infections. Now, a week later, I visited...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: HIV cannot be diagnosed based on symptoms alone; a blood test is required. If you have concerns, it is recommended to visit a urology department for examination. You can simply request a sexually transmitted infection (STI) test. Wishing you good health.

Concerns About Oral Sex: Unpleasant Odors and STD Risks

Hello, doctor. Recently, I performed oral sex on a male partner, and when he took off his pants, there was a very unpleasant odor. However, the area outside the glans had a scent of body wash. After performing oral sex, I also swallowed. I'm a bit worried about whether I cou...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are transmitted through sexual contact and the exchange of bodily fluids, which include blood, semen, and vaginal secretions. Therefore, sexual activities that do not involve the exchange of bodily fluids are considered safe. The...