In fact, some STIs are more easily transmitted through oral contact than vaginal or anal sex.

Oral sex involves using the mouth, lips, or tongue on a partner’s genitals or anus. While it may seem less risky than vaginal or anal sex, it can still expose you to sexually transmitted infections (STIs). STIs are infections that spread through sexual contact, and they can affect anyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender.

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Some common STIs that can be transmitted through oral sex include:

This virus is one of the most common STIs and can be passed on through skin-to-skin contact during oral sex. HPV can cause warts in the throat, mouth, or on the genitals. In some cases, it can lead to more severe issues like throat or mouth cancer.

There are two types of herpes viruses: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 usually causes cold sores around the mouth, but it can also cause genital herpes if transmitted through oral sex. HSV-2 generally affects the genital area but can be spread to the mouth through oral sex. Herpes infections can be painful and uncomfortable, and while the virus remains in the body for life, it can be managed with medication.

These bacterial infections are known for affecting the genital area, but they can also infect the throat. Symptoms might include a sore throat or swollen lymph nodes, but sometimes there are no symptoms at all, making it easy to spread the infection unknowingly.

Although the risk of contracting HIV through oral sex is lower compared to vaginal or anal sex, it is still possible, especially if there are cuts or sores in the mouth or on the genitals. HIV attacks the immune system, and without treatment, it can lead to AIDS, a life-threatening condition.

In addition to STIs, there are other health concerns linked to oral sex: