scorecardresearch

Is oral sex safe? Make sure to follow these 3 tips

You might not get pregnant, but the side effects of oral sex can have major repercussions for your vagina, including STIs and vaginal warts.
Updated On: 27 Feb 2025, 09:46 pm IST
  • Google News Share
  • Facebook Share
  • X Share
  • WhatsApp Share
sex dreams
Oral sex can lead to the spread of many sexually transmitted infections including chlamydia. Image courtesy: Freepik

Oral sex appears to be a safer option when compared to penetrative sex for many due to no risk of pregnancy. But did you know that there are many other risks of oral sex that need to be thought about as well? The side effects of oral sex can be severe and one must be aware of its dangers. The logic behind safety seems simple enough: No penis, no semen, no baby. What we tend to forget is that the health of our vagina is still on the line. This type of sex involves licking of the genitals. The vagina, being one of the most sensitive body parts, might be at a risk of catching an infection. When women perform this type of sex on a man, it also involves risk of infection. 

What is oral sex?

It is a sexual activity where a partner’s genitals or anus is stimulated orally. It is often part of foreplay, a warm up to get into the mood. Mouth, lips and tongue are used for stimulation of your partner’s erogenous zones.

Different types of oral sex

There are three types of oral sex that can be done, keeping the best oral sex positions in mind.

  • Fellatio: This is also known as a blowjob. Here, the penis is stimulated with the help of mouth and tongue. This is also called oral-penile sex.
  • Cunnilingus: Here, the mouth and tongue is used on the vulva, clitoris and the vagine in order to stimulate them.
  • Anilingus or Analingus: This is also called rimming. Anilingus is the sexual stimulation of the anus with the tongue and mouth.

Is oral sex safe?

If this type if sex is practiced without protection, can put you at risk for sexually transmitted infections as well as urinary tract infections. It needs to be practiced with some safety measures in order to minimise your risk of catching an infection. Here are some oral sex tips for safety:

1. Reduced risks with communication and hygiene

Communication with your partner is very important. If you are having this type of sex with multiple partners, the chances of STIs will only increase. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that 10 or more sexual partners in one lifetime can increase risk of HPV-related cancers. What to do after oral sex? it is important to wash your genitals before and after with unscented soap and warm water.

2. Dental dams: A barrier for added protection

Use a dental dam to minimise the risk of side effects. A dental dam is a small thin latex or plastic square that is used to prevent the spread of STIs. Basically, it will act as a barrier between the vagina and the mouth.

3. STI Testing: Maintaining sexual health

If you are practicing oral health, then you must undergo regular screenings of STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Also HIV testing is also recommended for people between the ages of 15 years to 65 years, states the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “It is risky as it tends to involve licking the vagina. Hence, one is likely to come in contact with the vaginal fluids and faeces, increasing the chances of STIs,” explains gynaecologist and infertility expert Dr Krutika Makhija.

Oral Sex
The pleasure comes with some risks. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Vaginal health risks associated with oral sex

It’s important to understand it  might  be, if you ignore the risks. Herpes is one of the biggest side effects of oral sex. There are two types of Herpes; oral herpes (blisters and cold sores around the mouth or nose) and genital herpes (pain, itching, and small sores on the genitals that turn into ulcers and scabs). It is possible to be infected with one of these STIs if infected fluids come in contact with any sores, cuts, or ulcers one may have. 

Apart from herpes, other oral sex side effects includes other infections such as hepatitis A, B, C, gonorrhea, shigellosis, herpes, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis can be passed on through oral sex.

Also read: Even oral sex can lead to an itchy vagina! Here’s how to prevent it

oral sex
Even oral sex can give you STI such as Chlamydia. Image courtesy: Shutterstock.

“Consult your gynecologist immediately, if you suffer from STIs or any other infections”, Dr Makhija suggests.

Oral sex and UTI

Yes, this typs of sex, too, can give you UTI. You don’t always need penetration for UTI. During the act, the bacteria from your colon and vagina can enter the urethra. This can result in an infection.

Also read: Can you get Chlamydia from oral sex?

The health benefits of oral sex

This is a great way for a couple to interact sexually without the need of actual penetration. Many couples enjoy this type of sex and make it as part of their intimacy regime regularly.

PollTake a Poll
How often do you change your period product?
PollTake a Poll
How do you track your cycle?
  1. Helps you to de-stress, sleep better

    A study, conducted in Cell Journal, states that semen has melatonin, which is hormone that aids better sleep. Therefore, oral sex can help you get better sleep. However, it is more research that needs to be done on this.

  2. Helps stall the ageing process

    Semen contains something called spermidine, and this can help slow down the ageing process. This study, published in Nature Cell Biology, says that spermidine can actually be injected into cells to slow down ageing.

  3. Lower risk of breast cancer

    A study conducted in Massachusetts Institute of Technology states that women who take part in this type of sex once or twice a week, are at a lower risk of breast cancer. It is believed that there are some chemicals in semen that can lower the risk.

Personal Choice and Respect for Values

While this type of sex is commonly practiced amongst couples, it is very important to note that there must be a channel of honest communication. Therefore, one of the most important tips is that both partners must sit and discuss what they are okay with and what is out of limits. Also, while you cannot get pregnant after this type of sex, it does comes with its share of risks, and therefore, an informed decision must be taken.

Related FAQs

How long after oral sex does STD appear?

The incubation time for different STDs vary. Chlamydia takes 7-21 days, while genital herpes takes 2-12 days. Gonorrhea takes about 14 days to show symptoms and HIV takes about 2-4 weeks.

Which STD is not curable?

There are four types of STDs that are not curable. These are hepatitis B, herpes simplex virus (HSV), HIV and human papillomavirus (HPV).

Can I get throat infection from giving oral sex?

While it is rare, there are some STIs that can spread through oral sex and lead to issues in your throat. One such STI is Chlamydia. This is known as pharyngeal chlamydia infection.

Disclaimer: At Health Shots, we are committed to providing accurate, reliable, and authentic information to support your health and well-being. However, the content on this website is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised advice regarding your specific medical condition or concerns.

  • Google News Share
  • Facebook Share
  • X Share
  • WhatsApp Share
About The Author
Anjuri Nayar Singh
Anjuri Nayar Singh

Anjuri Nayar Singh has over 12 years of experience in writing for various topics including lifestyle, films, television and OTT. She also writes on art and culture, education and human interest stories.

Next Story