6 Must-Follow Tips to Protect Yourself and Your Partner

Let’s get real: Oral sex is super common, but it’s not exactly a topic people chat about at the dinner table. And that’s a problem. Because while oral sex can be safe, it’s not risk-free—you can still catch or spread STIs (sexually transmitted infections), from herpes to gonorrhea. The good news? With a few smart moves, you can lower those risks and enjoy intimacy without the anxiety. Here’s your no-judgment guide to safer oral sex, backed by experts.

Table of Contents

**Oral Sex 101: What You’re Really Risking**

First, let’s define oral sex: Using your mouth, lips, or tongue to stimulate a partner’s genitals or anus (yep, that counts too). While it’s less risky than vaginal or anal sex, it’s not “safe” like holding hands. Common STIs spread through oral sex include:

Herpes: Causes cold sores or genital blisters.
Gonorrhea and Chlamydia: Can infect the throat.
Syphilis: Sores on the mouth or genitals.
HPV: Linked to throat cancer (yes, really).
HIV: Rare, but possible if there’s bleeding or open sores.

Key stat: 1 in 7 people aged 14–49 have oral herpes (HSV-1), and many don’t know it.

6 Tips to Make Oral Sex Safer (Without Killing the Mood)

1. Use Protection—Seriously, It’s Not Just for Condoms

Dental dams: Thin latex squares placed over the vulva or anus during oral sex. No dam? Cut open a condom or non-lubricated glove.
Condoms: Use flavored condoms for oral sex on a penis. Avoid regular ones—they taste gross.
Pro tip: Keep a dam/condom in your nightstand. It’s easier to suggest protection when it’s within arm’s reach.

2. Get Tested (And Ask Your Partner to Do the Same)

Why: Many STIs have no symptoms. Get tested every 3–6 months if you’re sexually active.
What to ask: “Hey, when was your last STI check?” If they dodge the question, that’s a red flag.
Testing spots: Planned Parenthood, local clinics, or at-home kits like Everlywell.

3. Skip Oral Sex During Outbreaks or Cuts

- Cold sores = herpes: If you have a cold sore, avoid giving oral sex. HSV-1 can spread to genitals.

@pasanteuk

♬ original sound – PasanteUK

Cuts or burns: Papercuts, braces cuts, or burnt tongues? Wait until they heal. Openings in your skin = easy entry for germs.

**4. Brush Your Teeth Before (Not Right After)**

Why: Brushing creates tiny cuts in your gums, raising STI risk. Brush 1–2 hours before oral sex instead.
Better idea: Rinse with mouthwash or water to freshen up.

5. Vaccinate Against HPV and Hepatitis

HPV vaccine: Protects against strains that cause genital warts and cancers. Recommended for everyone up to age 45.
Hepatitis A/B vaccines: Hep A spreads through oral-anal contact (rimming). Most people get these as kids—check your records.

6. Communicate Like a Grown-Up

Ask about STI status: “Have you been tested since your last partner?”
Discuss boundaries: “Are you cool with protection?” or “Let me know if you want me to stop.”
Pro tip: Have this convo before things get hot and heavy.

What’s the Worst That Could Happen? (Real Talk)

Ignoring these tips can lead to:

- Sore throat STIs: Gonorrhea/chlamydia in the throat often feels like strep.
- Lifelong infections: Herpes and HPV stay in your body forever.
- Cancer risks: HPV causes 70% of throat cancers linked to oral sex.

But: Most of these are preventable with the steps above.

FAQs: Awkward Questions, Straight Answers

Q: Can you get HIV from oral sex?
A: Risk is super low unless you have bleeding gums or sores. Still, use protection if your partner is HIV+.

Q: Is swallowing semen safe?
A: Semen itself isn’t toxic, but STIs in it (like HIV, gonorrhea) can infect your throat.

Q: Does mouthwash prevent STIs?
A: Nope. It kills some germs but won’t stop herpes or syphilis.

Q: Can you get an STI from giving oral to a woman?
A: Yes. Fluids from the vagina (or skin contact with sores) can transmit infections.

The Bottom Line: Safety = Confidence

Oral sex shouldn’t feel like a game of Russian roulette. By using protection, getting tested, and speaking up, you protect yourself and your partner. Remember: