Oral Sex Risks: Infection Transmission and Safety

Q: Oral Sex Risks: Infection Transmission and Safety

Hello： Safe methods include masturbation, hugging, and touching areas other than the genitals; low-risk methods include mutual masturbation, light kissing, mutual rubbing, and protected sexual intercourse using condoms; moderate-risk methods include deep kissing, oral sex, and wi

Oral sex probability

Hello Dr.
Lee, I am the person who asked the question 128075 last time.
Thank you for your previous clarification.
Following up on my last question, if I am the receptive partner (Position 1) in oral sex, is there still a risk of infection if the other partner (Position 0) has an infection but no open wounds? Is the receptive partner at significantly lower risk compared to the insertive partner? There is a lot of information online stating that the risk of oral sex is low, which can be quite confusing.
Thank you, doctor.

Xiao Le, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/11

Dr. Li Minghui reply Urology

Hello: Safe methods include masturbation, hugging, and touching areas other than the genitals; low-risk methods include mutual masturbation, light kissing, mutual rubbing, and protected sexual intercourse using condoms; moderate-risk methods include deep kissing, oral sex, and withdrawal; high-risk methods include unprotected intercourse and intercourse that causes wounds or bleeding.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/09/11

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks associated with oral sex, particularly in the context of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), it is essential to grasp the nuances of transmission dynamics. Oral sex can indeed pose risks for both the active (insertive) and passive (receptive) partners, and the level of risk can vary depending on several factors.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that STIs can be transmitted through oral sex. While the risk is generally lower compared to vaginal or anal intercourse, it is not negligible. In your scenario, if the receptive partner (1) engages in oral sex with an infected partner (0), there is still a risk of transmission even if there are no visible open wounds. Many STIs, including herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and human papillomavirus (HPV), can be transmitted through mucosal surfaces found in the mouth and throat.

The risk for the receptive partner (1) is often considered lower than that for the insertive partner (0) in oral sex scenarios, but this does not mean it is risk-free. The presence of any cuts, sores, or abrasions in the mouth can increase susceptibility to infection. Additionally, certain STIs can cause asymptomatic infections, meaning that an infected partner may not show any signs or symptoms, yet still be capable of transmitting the infection.

Regarding the specific concerns about the transmission of infections like HPV, which is linked to oropharyngeal cancers, studies have shown that oral sex can increase the risk of HPV-related cancers, particularly if the receptive partner has multiple sexual partners or engages in other high-risk sexual behaviors. The relationship between oral sex and the risk of developing oropharyngeal cancer is still being researched, but it is clear that HPV can be transmitted through oral sex.

In terms of prevention, using barriers such as condoms or dental dams during oral sex can significantly reduce the risk of STI transmission. Regular STI screenings for sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners, are also crucial for early detection and treatment. It is advisable for partners to communicate openly about their sexual health and history, which can help in making informed decisions about sexual practices.

In summary, while the risk of STI transmission during oral sex is generally lower than with other forms of sexual activity, it is still present. Both partners should be aware of their sexual health status and take appropriate precautions to minimize risks. Regular check-ups, open communication, and the use of protective barriers are key strategies in maintaining sexual health and preventing the spread of infections.

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