06/09/2025
Oral S*x and Risk of Mouth Diseases
1. S*xually Transmitted Infections (STIs):
Engaging in oral s*x can transmit infections from the ge****ls to the mouth and throat. Common STIs that can spread through oral s*x include:
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): A leading cause of oropharyngeal cancers (throat, base of the tongue, tonsils). Many people are unaware they are infected because symptoms can be silent.
• Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): Can cause cold sores or painful oral lesions. HSV-1 (commonly oral herpes) and HSV-2 (commonly ge***al herpes) can be transmitted in both directions.
• Gonorrhea: Can infect the throat (pharyngeal gonorrhea), often without symptoms, but still transmissible.
• Chlamydia: Although less common in the throat, it can still be transmitted via oral-ge***al contact.
• Syphilis: Can appear as painless sores or ulcers in the mouth, which are highly contagious.
• HIV: Though the risk is lower, HIV can be transmitted through oral s*x, especially if there are cuts, sores, or bleeding gums in the mouth.
2. Oral Cancer Risks:
Persistent HPV infection from oral s*x has been linked to a rising rate of oropharyngeal cancers, particularly in younger, non-smoking individuals.
3. Other Infections:
Non-STI infections like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and intestinal parasites (like Giardia) can also be spread through oral-anal contact (“rimming”).