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Oral sex and sexually transmitted infections: Do you know how low the risks are?
Oral sex, also known as oral intercourse, is a sexual act that stimulates another person's sexual organs through the mouth (including lips, tongue, or teeth). It can be a very intimate sexual activity, but like other sexual behaviors, oral sex also carries the risk of transmitting STDs. However, the lower risks of oral sex, especially in terms of HIV transmission, are generally considered to be significantly lower than the risks of vaginal or anal sex.
Oral sex is often considered taboo, yet in most countries there are no laws against it.
Types of oral sex
Oral sex can come in many forms, including vaginal sex (oral sex in the vagina), penile sex, and anal sex. In particular, facesitting and the "sixty-nine" pose are two very popular methods. It is worth noting that in some cases, oral sex can also be used as a way to preserve virginity, especially in heterosexual relationships known as technical virginity.
Contraception and safe sex
Oral sex itself does not cause pregnancy, and many heterosexual couples sometimes choose oral sex as a form of contraception. However, oral sex is not effective in preventing sexually transmitted infections. While there is a lower chance of some types of STDs being transmitted during this procedure, it is recommended to use a condom or oral diaphragm during oral sex for extra protection.
Although no contraceptive method for oral sex has been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration as effective, using a condom or dental diaphragm can provide some protection during oral sex.
Epidemiology
According to a 2005 Center for Health Statistics report, more than half of teenagers were asked whether they had ever had oral sex. This shows how common oral sex is among teenagers and adults. At the same time, men are generally more likely to receive vaginal oral sex than women, and oral sex is a common intimate activity among many same-sex couples.
Health Risks and Other Research
Although oral sex carries the risk of transmitting STDs, many medical authorities say the risks are relatively low compared with vaginal or anal sex. According to some research, there may be a link between oral sex and certain cancers, such as throat cancer, primarily due to the spread of the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Research shows that having unprotected oral sex with someone infected with HPV may increase the risk of oral cancer.
Cultural Perspectives
Cultural views on oral sex vary. In many cultures, oral sex is considered a taboo or frowned upon behavior, which is associated with various social, religious and moral concepts. But in modern Western culture, oral sex is widely accepted and enjoyed by many.
Terms and slang
There are many terms and slang used to refer to oral sex, such as "gimmick" and "blowjob." These slang terms may have varying levels of popularity in different cultural and social contexts.
Oral sex in the animal kingdom
In the animal kingdom, oral sex has also been observed in many species, with some animals gaining an evolutionary advantage from engaging in this behavior.
Before engaging in any sexual activity, it is crucial to understand your partner's sexual health status and risks. Although the risks of oral sex are reduced relative to other forms of sex, this does not mean that the risks are completely absent. Therefore, the best course of action remains to remain alert and take appropriate safety measures. Would you choose to use protection during sex, or would you choose to trust your partner's health?
