Health risks of oral sex
UNTIL a few years ago oral sex was quite a taboo topic in Jamaica, even though many people were engaging on the down low. But today it’s par for the course in relationships, and with its popularity there are health risks involved.
UNTIL a few years ago oral sex was quite a taboo topic in Jamaica, even though many people were engaging on the down low. But today it’s par for the course in relationships, and with its popularity there are health risks involved.
“Oral sex involves the oral stimulation of the genitals or anus for sexual pleasure,” said gynaecologist Dr Anna-Kay Taylor Christmas.
“It has become increasingly common because of the very low risk of pregnancy and the rise of infections like HIV [that’s spread with full sex]. However, people should be aware that it still carries risks.”
Among these are:
Among these are:
• Herpes virus, which cannot be cured and is easily transmitted when an outbreak is active.
• Human papilloma virus (which causes cervical cancer), which can infect the throat and cause polyps and even cancer there.
• HIV, although the risk is much lower than penetrative vaginal or anal sex. The risk of transmission is greatest with ejaculation into the mouth.
• Syphilis.
• Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia, which can infect the throat and thereafter be passed on to other people.
• Hepatitis, which can cause long-term liver damage.
• Parasites and bacteria (particularly for oro-anal contact).
Dr Taylor Christmas explained that contracting these infections could become more risky in particular situations.
“The risks of infection are greatest if there is menstrual blood, infection with another STD, oral ulcers, bleeding gums, or genital sores present,” she said.
She said you can better protect yourself by employing a few protective techniques:
• Limiting sexual partners, preferably to one faithful partner whose infection status you know before starting sexual activity.
• Not allowing your partner to ejaculate in your mouth.
• Using barriers between your mouth and your partner’s genitals/anus.
• Getting treated for abnormal symptoms immediately.
• Refraining from oral sex if there are sores or abnormal bleeding from the mouth or genitals.
