Is Oral Sex Safe Sex?

Ever wondered if oral sex is as risk-free as some claim? Prepare to be enlightened as I, Stephanie Smith, guide you through the often-misunderstood landscape of STIs and oral intimacy. This episode isn't just a deep dive—it's an essential roadmap to navigating the complexities and misconceptions surrounding sexual health. We're shattering myths with cold, hard facts about the transmission of herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and HPV through oral practices. And don't worry, it's not a lecture—it's a conversation with you, our community of curious minds, eager for clarity and truth.

Armed with prevention strategies that are as practical as they are powerful, we lay out the top five tips to keep you and your partners safer. Think barriers are just for penetrative sex? Think again. We emphasize the unsung heroes of sexual health—condoms and dental dams—alongside the indispensable role of regular STI screenings. Plus, we're not shy about the significance of candid dialogue with partners; after all, forewarned is forearmed. This chat about maintaining impeccable oral hygiene and selective partnerships isn't a judgment call but a call to action. Because let's face it, a satisfying sex life is a healthy one, and we're here to help you achieve just that.

12/30/23

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:45

Hello and welcome back to let's Talk About Sex with Stephanie Smith. Helping you create a healthy and satisfying sex life. That's right. That's what we're here to do, but we're also here to debunk myths and rumors, and today we have one for you. Today, we have the question from one of our followers when I get an STI from oral sex? Well, let's first just talk about oral sex.

Speaker 1: 1:19

Oral sex, which includes conalingus, oral contact with the female genital area and fellatio. Oral contact with the penis is often perceived as a safer alternative to vaginal and anal intercourse. However, it's important to understand that sexually transmitted infections, commonly referred to as sexually transmitted diseases, stds, can still be transmitted through these activities. Although the risk of transmitting certain STIs through oral sex is generally lower than through vaginal or anal intercourse, it is possible to contract or pass on an infection. So here are some of the STIs that can be transmitted through oral sex. Here are the list of five STIs that can be transmitted through oral sex.

Speaker 1: 2:24

Number one herpes. Both herpes simplex virus, type 1, hsv1 and type 2, hsv2, can be transmitted through oral sex, leading to oral herpes or genital herpes, depending on the site of contact. Herpes can be transmitted even when sores are not present, making it crucial to use barriers and communicate openly with partners. Number two gonorrhea. This bacterial infection can affect the throat when transmitted through oral sex. Symptoms may include a sore throat, but in many cases, the infection can be asymptomatic. Number three chlamydia. Chlamydia can also be transmitted through oral sex, leading to infections in the throat. Just like gonorrhea, it can be asymptomatic, making regular testing essential for early detection and treatment. Number four syphilis. Oral syphilis can cause sores in the mouth or on the genitals, and these can be infectious. It can lead to sores in the mouth and throat, among other symptoms. Number five human papilloma virus, hpv Strain and strains of HPV can be transmitted through oral sex and can lead to oral cancers, including throat cancer.

Speaker 1: 4:00

Now let's move on to the important prevention tips reducing the risk of STI transmission during oral sex. There are five of them. Number one you can use barriers. As discussed earlier, the use of barriers such as condoms or dental dams can significantly reduce the risk of STI transmission during oral sex. These thin sheets of latex or polyurethane create a protective barrier between the mouth and the genitals, helping to prevent the exchange of bodily fluids and reduce the risk of infection.

Speaker 1: 4:39

Number two regular testing. Getting tested for STIs regularly is crucial, especially if you are sexually active with multiple partners or engage in high risk behaviors. Testing can help detect infections early and ensure timely treatment. Many STIs can be asymptomatic, so regular testing is important even in the absence of symptoms. Number three open communication. It's essential to have open and honest conversations with your partner about sexual health, sti testing and any potential risks. Flocking STI status and testing history can help build trust and promote a healthy and informed sexual relationship.

Speaker 1: 5:32

Number four good oral hygiene. Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for reducing the risk of bacterial or fungal infections being transmitted to the genitals during oral sex. Over brushing, flossing and dental checkups can help keep your mouth healthy and reduce the risk of oral infections. Number five and last limiting partner numbers. While it's a personal choice, reducing the number of sexual partners can also lower the risk of STI transmission. Being selective about partners and practicing sex with each partner can contribute to a lower overall risk of exposure to STIs. So, in conclusion, oral sex, like any sexual activity, carries risks of STI transmission. By understanding that STIs can be contracted through cunnilingus and fallatio, individuals can take steps to protect themselves and their partners Using protection, maintaining good oral hygiene, getting regular STI tests and having open conversations about sexual health are all key strategies for reducing risk.

Speaker 1: 6:52

Remember, if you're a sexually active, regular checkups with a health care provider should include discussions about oral sex practices to ensure that you receive the appropriate guidance and testing and, if you suspect that you may have been exposed to an STI, seek medical attention promptly for testing and, if necessary, treatment. In the end, safe sex is not just about preventing unwanted pregnancies. It's also about protecting yourself and your partners from STIs. By being informed and cautious, you can enjoy a healthy and responsible sex life. And that concludes this episode of let's Talk About Sex with Stephanie Smith. We debunk to the myth is oral sex safe sex? The answer is no. So please go out there and be safe and protect yourself and your partners. Go out and have a happy, healthy, satisfying sex life. Aux lente and tante, until next time.