![]() |
|
Back to Sexual Health pageOral SexOral Sex: What Is It?Oral sex refers to oral (mouth and tongue) stimulation of the genitals. Fellatio is the Latin term for oral stimulation of the male genitals; cunnilingus is the Latin term for oral stimulation of the female genitals. Anilingus (sometimes called "rimming") refers to oral-anal contact. |
Is Oral Sex Sex? |
Is Oral Sex Sex?Many people wonder if oral sex is sex. And the answer is that it depends on the individual. Some people consider oral sex sex and some people don't.1 Regardless of your definition of sex, it's important to realize that oral sex has some level of risk associated with it. Studies indicate that oral sex is commonly practiced by sexually active male-female and same-sex couples of various ages, including adolescents. A study in fall 2003 indicates that oral sex is practiced among UGA students; 75.2%2 of UGA students have ever engaged in oral sex, and 51.8% have engaged in oral sex in the previous month. Is Oral Sex Safe?Some individuals consider oral sex to be a safe or no risk sexual practice. Many people feel safe engaging in this behavior because there is no risk of pregnancy. There are, however, other considerations. Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea, herpes, hepatitis B, HIV, and syphilis can be transmitted through oral-genital contact. The risk of contracting chlamydia and HPV through oral sex is much less, although possible. It is difficult to determine exact rates of transmission of STIs through oral sex since many sexually active individuals practice oral sex in addition to other, higher risk activities, such as vaginal and/or anal sex. In addition, if a male ejaculates during oral sex, then the risk to his partner becomes higher. UGA students need to be most concerned about gonorrhea herpes, hepatitis B, HIV and syphilis when engaging in oral sex. Gonorrhea Herpes Hepatitis B HIV The risk of HIV transmission from an infected partner through oral sex is much smaller than the risk of HIV transmission from anal or vaginal sex, but there is still a risk.5 Several co-factors can increase the risk of HIV transmission through oral sex, including: oral ulcers, bleeding gums, genital sores, and the presence of other STIs. The Options Project found that 7.8% (8 of 102) of recently infected men who have sex with men in San Francisco were probably infected through oral sex. Most of these men believed that the risk was minimal or non-existent. Nearly half (3 of 8) of these cases reported oral problems, including occasional bleeding gums. Almost all (7 of 8) of these men reported oral contact with pre-ejaculate or semen.6 More recent studies have placed the risk at a much lower rate, .06% for oral-penile contact with an HIV-positive partner and .04% with partners of unknown status.5 When scientists describe the risk of transmitting an infectious disease, like HIV, the term "theoretical risk" is often used. Very simply, "theoretical risk" means that passing an infection from one person to another is possible, even though there may not yet be any actual documented cases. "Theoretical risk" is not the same as "likelihood". In other words, stating that HIV infection is "theoretically possible" does not necessarily mean it is likely to happen—only that it might. Documented risk, on the other hand, is used to describe transmission that has actually occurred, been investigated, and documented in the scientific literature. For HIV, there have been documented cases of HIV being transmitted to a receptive partner through oral-penile contact, even in cases when the insertive partner didn't ejaculate. Likewise, there have been a few cases of HIV transmission most likely resulting from oral-vaginal sex. As of December 2000, there has only been one published case of HIV transmission associated with oral-anal contact,7 though other studies have shown that oral-anal contact is a marker for other high risk behaviors.5 Syphilis How To Make Oral Sex SaferGiven the risks of oral sex, if you decide to engage in this behavior—whether you are receiving or giving—knowing ways to reduce STI exposure is important. Many people consider practicing safer sex to be an obligation—talking to your partner about ways to eroticize the experience can let pleasure still remain the primary focus. ![]() For oral sex on a woman, the use of latex barrier or plastic wrap can serve as a barrier to prevent the transmission of HIV and other STIs. Latex barriers, such as a Sheer Glyde dam (dental dam, shown at left) or condoms cut open, are manufactured with flavors to cater to different tastes. For oral sex on a man, using a flavored latex condom can reduce STI transmission. Some people complain that condoms have a rubbery taste and lessen the sensation on the penis. Spermicides on the condoms may also numb the tongue. Using flavored condoms that may make the idea of using a condom more appealing, but be sure that the condom is not a novelty condom. Condoms that say "for novelty use only" should not be used for protection from STIs. Using a small amount of lubricant inside the condom may help increase sensation. If a condom is not being used, avoid ejaculation in your or your partner's mouth. If ejaculate does enter the mouth, spitting out the semen immediately can reduce risk. Condoms are available in the Health Promotion Department or for purchase at a reduced cost at the UGA University Health Center Pharmacy. For oral-anal contact, a barrier is strongly recommended. Contracting Hepatitis A and B in addition to other bacterial infections (such as giardiasis and amebiasis)are a concern.3 Using a Sheer Glyde dam or plastic wrap will reduce possible transmission. Regardless of the sex of your partner, if there is a sore or discharge on your partner's genitals or an unusual odor, avoid any type of contact with the genitals including oral sex. If a partner's mouth has a sore, also avoid oral sex. Do not brush or floss your teeth right before you have oral sex. Flossing and brushing may tear the lining of the mouth, increasing the exposure to any viruses that may be present. If you wish to freshen your breath before kissing, try mouthwash instead. Avoid deep thrusting in oral sex. This highly physical form of oral sex may increase the risk of infection because it may cause damage to the throat tissues, which increases susceptibility for throat-based gonorrhea, herpes and abrasions. Some individuals laugh or are uncomfortable at the idea of using a Sheer Glyde dam or a condom for oral sex. Communication with your partner is important when exploring protection during oral sex. Talking with your partner about his/her feelings, the reason for those feelings, and the issue of risk can help both of you make appropriate decisions. Is Oral Sex For Me?Individuals have different sexual likes and dislikes. There is a range of feelings expressed about performing oral sex. Some individuals truly enjoy performing oral sex; some don't find it particularly special, but want to do it for their partner; some don't want to engage in it all. A person's feelings about oral sex can change over time and from one partner to another. Other concerns, such as infection transmission or hygiene, can impact your or a partner's willingness to engage in oral sex. See above for information about how to make oral sex safer. Regarding hygiene, think about what you would like in a partner if you were planning to engage in oral sex with him or her. Cleanliness would probably be near the top of the list. Having showered or bathed that day would be a requirement for many people. For women, douching is not necessary. If your partner doesn't like the way you smell, they may be hesitant to perform oral sex on you. If you don't like the way your partner smells, perhaps you could suggest taking a shower together. The decision to engage in oral sex needs be made individually and as a couple. Being sensitive and respectful of your partners' wishes and concerns is important regardless if you and your partner decide to incorporate oral sex into your sexual repartee. Please visit www.uhs.uga.edu/sexualhealth for more general information about Sexually Transmitted Infections. If you have additional questions, concerns or suggestions, please email Kyle Dietz, Sexual Health Educator: kdietz@uhs.uga.edu. SOURCES
|
|
University Health Center
University of Georgia 370 River Road; Athens, GA 30602 706-542-1162 Email the Health Center
The Health Center is
fully accredited by the Joint Commission. ![]() |