Risk of Contracting Gonorrhea After Unprotected Oral Sex: What You Need to Know

Q: Risk of Contracting Gonorrhea After Unprotected Oral Sex: What You Need to Know

Hello： The risk of infection is low when using condoms. <br>You can refer to the following classifications of sexual behaviors： <br>- Low-risk sexual behaviors： These include mutual masturbation, mutual rubbing, deep kissing, bondage, protected deep foreplay, oral sex with condom

Having sexual intercourse with a woman who has gonorrhea?

Hello, 22 days ago I had sexual intercourse with a female online acquaintance.
During the encounter, we performed oral sex on each other (without protection), but I used a condom throughout the intercourse.
Yesterday, she suddenly mentioned that she had sexual intercourse with a male online acquaintance 22 days ago and was diagnosed with gonorrhea (not HIV).
During this 22-day period, I have not experienced any symptoms, such as discharge or burning sensations; everything has been normal.
I went for testing immediately, but the results will take two weeks.
I would like to know if there is a possibility of transmission in this situation.

Xiao T, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/12

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: The risk of infection is low when using condoms.
You can refer to the following classifications of sexual behaviors:
- Low-risk sexual behaviors: These include mutual masturbation, mutual rubbing, deep kissing, bondage, protected deep foreplay, oral sex with condoms or dental dams, anal intercourse, and vaginal intercourse with protection.

- Moderate-risk sexual behaviors: These include withdrawal (pulling out), sharing sex toys, unprotected deep foreplay, oral sex before ejaculation, and oral sex during menstruation.
- High-risk sexual behaviors: These include unprotected anal intercourse, unprotected vaginal intercourse, oral sex during menstruation, retaining semen in the mouth, sharing needles, syringes, and bleeding during sexual activity.

Reply Date: 2020/03/12

More Info

Engaging in unprotected oral sex can carry a risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including gonorrhea. While the risk of contracting gonorrhea through oral sex is generally lower than through vaginal or anal intercourse, it is not negligible, especially if one of the partners is infected. In your case, since you had unprotected oral sex with a partner who has since disclosed a gonorrhea infection, it is important to consider the potential risks involved.

Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae and can infect the throat, urethra, and other mucous membranes. When oral sex is performed on an infected partner, the bacteria can be transmitted to the throat, leading to a condition known as pharyngeal gonorrhea. Symptoms of pharyngeal gonorrhea can include a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and swollen lymph nodes, but many individuals may remain asymptomatic.

The fact that you have not experienced any symptoms such as discharge, burning, or pain is reassuring, but it does not eliminate the possibility of infection. Many individuals with gonorrhea do not show symptoms, which is why regular STI screenings are crucial for sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners or those who engage in unprotected sex.

Since you mentioned that you have already gone for testing, it is essential to wait for the results to determine whether you have contracted gonorrhea or any other STIs. The incubation period for gonorrhea can vary, but symptoms may appear within a few days to a couple of weeks after exposure. In some cases, it may take longer for symptoms to manifest, or you may remain asymptomatic.

If your test results come back positive for gonorrhea, the good news is that it is treatable with antibiotics. However, it is crucial to inform any sexual partners so they can also get tested and treated if necessary. Untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious health complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can cause infertility and chronic pain.

In summary, while the risk of contracting gonorrhea from unprotected oral sex exists, especially with a partner who has tested positive, the absence of symptoms does not guarantee that you are infection-free. It is essential to wait for your test results and follow up with your healthcare provider for appropriate treatment and guidance. Additionally, consider discussing preventive measures with your partner(s) to reduce the risk of future infections, such as using condoms or dental dams during oral sex and getting regular STI screenings.

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