Hey Christy. Well, I’m glad you asked because there are a lot of misconceptions out there on STDs and oral sex. If you don’t know the answer, you’re right in asking the question so you have the knowledge to protect yourself.
The short answer is Yes, you can get a STD from oral sex
Some people think of oral sex as safe sex, but that’s a myth. You can get and spread- any STD during oral sex, including HIV.
Here are some fast facts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
- The risk of HIV transmission through oral sex is much less than that from anal or vaginal sex—but IT IS NOT zero.
- Performing oral sex on an HIV-infected man, with ejaculation in the mouth, is the riskiest oral sex activity.
- Factors that may increase the risk of HIV transmission through oral sex are oral ulcers, bleeding gums, genital sores, and the presence of other sexually transmitted diseases.
To minimize your risks use a condom for oral sex on a penis and a cut-open condom or a dental dam for oral sex on a vagina or anus.
The following things can reduce the risk of getting HIV through oral sex:
- If giving oral sex, avoid having your partner ejaculate in your mouth.
- Use barriers, such as condoms, natural rubber latex sheets, dental dams, or cut-open nonlubricated condoms between your mouth and your partners genitals or rectum.
Check out our fact sheets on Dental Dams and Condoms 101
If you’re unsure of how to use a dental dam or how to create a barrier using a cut open condom, check out this quick video demonstration, since it can be hard to find them depending on where you live.
Last thing, if you’re in need of a condom order a snag bag for FREE.
Hope that helps Christy!
Love,
Auntie Manda
