Many people enjoy switching up the routine and adding oral sex to their sexual agenda. It’s something fun, generous and really shows your partner you care. For couples who have been together for a long time it can be a treat and add spice to a sex life that has become routine.  For new partners, it gives everyone an opportunity to get to know each other more intimately and explore the boundaries of the body and sexual climax together. Unfortunately it’s not always fun and games, and it is important to understand that oral sex is still sex.  The dangers or contracting STD’s through oral sex still exist, which is why it is so important to practice safe sex when engaging in this type of sex.

HPV or human papilloma virus is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the US, affecting 75-80% of males and females in their lifetime. There are about 79 million Americans infected with HPV, and about 14 million people become newly infected each year.  What most people don’t realize however, is that aside from being the leading cause of cervical cancers, it is also the leading cause of mouth and throat cancers.

Human papilloma viruses are actually a group of more than 150 related viruses. They typically cause warts (papillomas) which are benign tumors, which is where the name comes from.  HPVs that cause warts on your hands and feet typically do not spread easily.  HPVs that cause other warts, such as genital warts, are spread more easily via sexual contact and are referred to as sexually transmitted infections.  Sexual contact is not limited to vaginal intercourse, and as such HPV is the leading cause of oropharyngeal cancers, and a very small number of front of the mouth, oral cavity cancers. HPV16 is the version most responsible, and affects both males and females.  This is why it is important to practice safe sex when engaging in oral sex as well.

·                An ulcer or sore that does not heal within a few weeks

·                A red, white, or black discoloration in the mouth

·                Difficult or painful swallowing

·                A swollen but painless tonsil

·                Pain when chewing

·                A persistent sore throat

·                Hoarse voice

·                A swelling or lump in the mouth

·                A painless lump on the outside of the neck

·                A numb feeling in the mouth or lips

·                Constant coughing

Here are some ways to practice safe oral sex:

Ø  Discuss sexual history with your partner

Ø  Go over their history of STIs

Ø  Ask about their history in using protection when having sex

Ø  Do not have oral sex if you or your partner is being treated for an STI

Ø  Do not have oral sex if one partner is having outbreak symptoms

Ø  Use a barrier method to prevent direct contact between mouth and genitals