Thursday, April 9, 2009

Can a STI be transmitted via oral sex?

Great question!
There is a risk of transmission during unprotected oral sex. The San Fransisco City Clinic has put together a really nice STI (aka STD) Risk Chart and it's online:
http://www.sfcityclinic.org/stdbasics/stdchart.asp
This site breaks down different sexual acts, along the lines of biological, sexual organs, into categories of STI known risks, possible risks, and unknown risks.
It also notes that:
  • Kissing, mutual masturbation, and frottage or dry humping are considered safer sex activities, with little to no risk of STD transmission.
  • Using latex condoms (male or female) significantly reduces the risk of contracting STDs during anal, vaginal and oral sex.
  • Washing hands and the genital area thoroughly before and after oral-anal sex reduces the risk of transmission of most of the listed STDs and conditions. Condom use reduces transmission risk even further.
Another great resource, specifically regarding HIV transmission during oral sex, can be found on the CDC webpage:
http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/resources/qa/qa19.htm
This was a really wonderful question that continues to have a rather vague answer! HIV can definitely be passed on to either the person performing or receiving oral sex; however, it is only speculated that the risk of transmission is less than through unprotected anal or vaginal intercourse.

Thanks for asking,

Sexperts

No comments: