Vaginal Infections from Oral Sex Between Women

What are the causes of vaginitis resulting from oral sex between women?

Hello Dr.
Chang, I am a lesbian.
During a trip abroad with my partner, I performed oral sex on her for a few seconds on the third night (just a few licks, and it was my first time).
I brushed my teeth beforehand, and she has never received oral sex before, usually stimulating herself externally.
Shortly after returning to Taiwan, she experienced discomfort and sought medical attention, where she was diagnosed with vaginitis.
She believes I cheated on her and transmitted bacteria to her (she has a history of vaginitis).

I researched the Q&A history on Taiwan's e-hospital website and found that genital infections can include vulvovaginal candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, and trichomoniasis.
I would like to ask the doctor which infections could be directly transmitted to the recipient through "the aforementioned method of oral sex"? What bacteria or pathogens in the mouth could be transmitted in this way and potentially cause vaginitis, such as Chlamydia, Trichomonas, or others?
Additionally, I found that oral sex can disrupt the vaginal microbiome balance, leading to vaginitis.
I would like to know where the bacteria causing the inflammation come from.
Given that my partner has a history of vaginitis, could that have an impact? I also have periodontal disease; does that have any effect?
I apologize for the many questions, but bacterial infections are quite complex, and I really need professional assistance to clarify these issues.
Thank you for your understanding.

Xiang Zhao Chu Da An De Ren, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/12

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the oral cavity and vagina are interconnected, which naturally allows for the presence of various bacteria, and they can also infect each other.
In your case, it would be advisable to consult a gynecologist for a thorough examination and bacterial culture to identify the specific bacterial infections and determine the appropriate treatment.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2018/12/12

More Info

When it comes to understanding the transmission of vaginal infections through oral sex, particularly in the context of women who have sexual relationships with other women, it is essential to consider several factors related to both the anatomy involved and the types of infections that can be transmitted.

First, it is important to clarify that while oral sex is generally considered a lower-risk sexual activity compared to vaginal or anal intercourse, it is not without its risks. The mouth can harbor various bacteria and viruses, some of which can potentially lead to infections in the genital area. Common pathogens that can be transmitted through oral sex include bacteria such as *Gardnerella vaginalis*, which is associated with bacterial vaginosis, and *Candida albicans*, which can cause yeast infections. Additionally, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as herpes simplex virus (HSV), human papillomavirus (HPV), and even gonorrhea can be transmitted through oral-genital contact.

In your specific case, you mentioned that you performed oral sex on your partner, who subsequently developed vaginal inflammation. While it is possible for bacteria from the mouth to be introduced into the vaginal area during oral sex, the likelihood of this leading to an infection depends on several factors, including the presence of any existing infections, the health of the vaginal flora, and individual susceptibility.

1. Existing Infections: If your partner has a history of vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections, her vaginal flora may already be imbalanced. This imbalance can make her more susceptible to further infections, especially if there is an introduction of new bacteria from oral sex.

2. Oral Bacteria: The mouth contains a diverse microbiome, and certain bacteria can be pathogenic when introduced to the vaginal environment. For instance, *Streptococcus* species and *Escherichia coli* (E. coli) are commonly found in the mouth and can potentially cause infections if they reach the vagina.

3. Impact of Oral Health: You mentioned having periodontal disease, which can increase the number of harmful bacteria in your mouth. This condition could theoretically increase the risk of transmitting bacteria during oral sex. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, as it can help reduce the bacterial load in your mouth.

4. Vaginal Flora Disruption: Oral sex can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. The introduction of new bacteria can lead to conditions such as bacterial vaginosis, which is characterized by an overgrowth of certain bacteria and a decrease in lactobacilli, the beneficial bacteria that help maintain vaginal health.

In summary, while it is possible for oral sex to lead to vaginal infections, the actual risk depends on various factors, including the health of both partners, existing infections, and oral hygiene practices. If your partner is experiencing symptoms of vaginal inflammation, it is advisable for her to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, open communication about sexual health and practices can help both partners understand and mitigate risks associated with sexual activities. Regular check-ups and STI screenings are also recommended for sexually active individuals to ensure overall sexual health.

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