Oral Sex: Risks of STDs for Inexperienced Partners

Oral sex

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask, if both partners are virgins with no sexual experience, is there a risk of contracting any sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during the first oral sex? I'm a bit worried.
If neither partner has HPV, can they still contract something after oral sex? Also, if my girlfriend has a sore or ulcer in her mouth the next day and it is painful, could this be an STI, or is it just a simple mouth sore and I'm overthinking it? My girlfriend mentioned that she used to have similar issues before.

Nìmíng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/04/13

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, there are many types of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and some transmission routes do not come from sexual activity.
For example, there have been reports of infections with the human papillomavirus (HPV) through contaminated objects like a mouse.
Therefore, if both partners are not infected, transmission is unlikely.
If there is no HPV type II, oral sex does not pose a risk of infection.
However, HPV often has no symptoms and has a long incubation period.
If there are no symptoms but you are concerned, you can get tested for STIs at a hospital 6-8 weeks later.
I hope this information is helpful.
If you have further questions, feel free to ask, and we can discuss it further.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; it is essential to seek medical care at a healthcare facility if necessary.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/04/13

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) associated with oral sex, especially for inexperienced partners, it's important to consider several factors. First, let's clarify that while oral sex is generally considered to be lower risk compared to vaginal or anal intercourse, it is not without its risks.
1. Transmission of STDs through Oral Sex: Oral sex can transmit various STDs, including but not limited to gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, herpes, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The risk of transmission depends on several factors, including the presence of sores or cuts in the mouth, the viral load of the partner, and the overall health of both partners. Even if both partners are inexperienced and claim to be free of STDs, there is still a possibility of transmission if one partner has an undiagnosed infection.

2. HPV and Other Infections: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common STD that can be transmitted through oral sex. While you mentioned that neither you nor your girlfriend has HPV, it's important to note that there are many strains of HPV, and some can be asymptomatic. Additionally, other infections can be transmitted even in the absence of visible symptoms.
3. Mouth Sores and Pain: If your girlfriend develops sores in her mouth after oral sex, it could be due to several reasons. These could range from a simple irritation or injury (such as biting her cheek or tongue) to a more serious condition like an oral herpes outbreak. If the sores are painful and persistent, it would be wise for her to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis. It’s also worth noting that some individuals may have recurrent mouth sores due to conditions like aphthous ulcers, which are not sexually transmitted.

4. Psychological Factors: Anxiety about potential STDs can lead to heightened awareness of bodily sensations and symptoms, which may cause you to misinterpret normal occurrences (like mouth sores) as signs of an infection. It’s essential to communicate openly with your partner about any concerns and to seek medical advice when in doubt.

5. Prevention Strategies: To reduce the risk of STDs during oral sex, consider the following strategies:
- Use barriers such as condoms or dental dams during oral sex. This can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.

- Maintain good oral hygiene and avoid oral sex if either partner has cuts, sores, or any oral infections.

- Regular STD screenings for sexually active individuals, even if asymptomatic, can help identify infections early and prevent transmission.

In conclusion, while the risk of contracting STDs from oral sex is lower compared to other forms of sexual activity, it is not negligible. If you or your girlfriend have concerns about symptoms or potential exposure to STDs, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate testing and guidance. Open communication and preventive measures are key to maintaining sexual health and well-being.

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