The short answer? Yes! Oral sex (using your mouth to pleasure someone’s penis, vagina, or anus) is still sex, at which means that you could get (or give someone) an STI through oral sex alone.
The best way to protect yourself is to use a condom or dental dam when you have oral sex and get tested regularly.
What STIs can be passed on from oral sex?
There are a few different infections that can be passed on via oral sex and your doctor can let you know if you need to get tested for them.
Genital herpes/oral herpes
This is the most common STI passed on via oral sex in Australia. You may not realise it, but those cold sores you get on your mouth every once in a while are actually caused by Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV 1). Almost half of genital herpes is caused by HSV 1, passed from the mouth to the genitals during oral sex.
Herpes (officially known as HSV1 or HSV2) is one of the most common STIs in Australia. However, most people never know they have it because they don’t get symptoms.
If you do have symptoms, it might include pain or tingling around the lips, genitals or bum, followed by blisters that heal on their own. Make sure you avoid all sex (including oral) if you have a flare-up – that’s the best way to stay safe.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a curable bacterial infection that, if left untreated, can cause serious complications including infertility, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) and painful swelling of the testicles. The great news is that chlamydia is easy to treat with a course of antibiotics. Chlamydia often has no symptoms, which is why getting tested is so important.
Gonorrhea
Sometimes referred to as ‘Gono’, gonorrhea is another bacterial infection that can be passed on via oral sex as well as intercourse. Like chlamydia, it’s curable if diagnosed. If left untreated it can cause infertility, pain and swelling of the testicles and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID).
Syphilis
Syphilis can also be passed on via oral sex. It’s another bacterial infection which if left untreated can cause serious implications. Symptoms include ulcers in the mouth, penis, vagina or anus, and a red rash on the body.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is only passed through oral sex to the bum or rimming. When someone gets Hep A they’ll feel super crook for a few weeks, then they usually get better. There’s also a vaccine.
When should you get an oral STI test?
If you’ve given or received unprotected oral sex, it’s a good idea to see your GP or visit a sexual health clinic for advice about testing. Getting tested is often as simple as a blood test, mouth swab and peeing in a cup.
Remember, STIs don’t always have symptoms which is why using condoms and getting tested regularly is so important.
How do I get tested for STIs in my mouth?
If you’re had oral sex without a condom or dental dam and are concerned about STIs in the mouth, let your doctor know.
If your doctor thinks you are at risk for an oral infection then they will likely take a swab of your throat. This may be uncomfortable, but shouldn’t hurt.
Protecting yourself from STIs during oral sex
Condoms
These are the best protection if you’re giving/receiving oral sex involving a penis. They are available in a variety of types and sizes. If the taste of latex isn’t for you (and let’s face it, latex condoms aren’t exactly delicious), look for flavoured condoms and or lube. Find out where you can buy condoms.
Dental dams
Dental dams are not as common as condoms but are an excellent way to protect against STIs during oral sex around the vagina or anus. A dental dam is a thin, flexible piece of latex that protects against mouth to vagina or mouth to anus contact. They can be tricky to get hold of but you can always make your own out of a condom.
Do I have an STI?
If you’re asking yourself “Do I have an STI?” then the best thing to do is to just go and get tested. It’s quick, and easy and is free if you have a Medicare card and visit a bulk billing doctor.
