When people talk about
sexually transmitted infections, most assume that they primarily spread through
vaginal or anal sex. But there is a fact that many overlook: oral sex. Yes! STIs
can easily spread due to oral sex. The risk is not zero, even if it can be less
than with other types of sexual activity. Maintaining your sexual health
requires knowing how these viruses spread and what precautions you may take.<o:p></o:p><h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">How Do STIs Spread Through
Oral Sex? <o:p></o:p></h2>When the mouth and
genitalia (or anus) come into contact during oral intercourse, bacteria and
viruses may be able to penetrate the small cuts, sores, or mucous membranes. An
infection may develop even in the absence of any outward signs.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>You can contract or
transmit an STI if:<o:p></o:p><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">You perform oral sex on an
infected partner<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Your partner performs oral
sex on you<o:p></o:p></li></ul><h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Common STIs That Can
Spread Through Oral Sex<o:p></o:p></h2>Here are a few of the most common
infections that transmit this way:<o:p></o:p><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Human Papillomavirus (HPV)<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Gonorrhea<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Chlamydia<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Syphilis<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;">HIV (Rare but Possible)<o:p></o:p></li></ul><h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Signs and Symptoms to
watch out for<o:p></o:p></h2>Most of the oral STIs show
very less symptoms, but a few come with warning signs like<o:p></o:p><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Sore throat or mouth ulcers<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Redness or throat
irritation<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;">There is contact with
genital fluids, sores, or blood<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Blisters, sores, or white
patches around the mouth or genitals<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Swollen lymph nodes in the
neck<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Unusual discharge or a
burning sensation in the mouth or throat<o:p></o:p></li></ul><h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">STI through Oral Sex
Prevention<o:p></o:p></h2>Protecting yourself from
STIs during oral sex doesn’t mean giving up on intimacy. A few precautions can
make a big difference:<o:p></o:p><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Always use protections like
condoms and dental dams<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Avoid oral sex during the
outbreaks<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Maintain a good oral
hygiene<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://healthsy.app/all-category-blog/which-doctor-should-you-consult-for-sex-problems" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(203, 27, 91);">Regularly get STI testing</a><o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Get HPV vaccination<o:p></o:p></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://healthsy.app/all-category-blog/how-stress-impacts-your-sexual-health" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(203, 27, 91);">Communicate openly</a><o:p></o:p></li></ul><h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Conclusion <o:p></o:p></h2>Although oral sex may
appear "safer," there are risks involved.&nbsp;STIs can spread covertly, leading to
difficulties that manifest much later.&nbsp;
The easiest methods to protect both your partner's and your own health
are awareness, prevention, and routine checkups.<o:p></o:p>&nbsp;&nbsp;Being informed promotes
empowerment rather than fear.&nbsp;Be aware of the facts.&nbsp;Take precautions.&nbsp;Remain well.<o:p></o:p>