How to practice safe oral sex

by Maria Nielsen Maria Nielsen

Oral sex is the type of sex where a person’s genitals is stimulated through the use of the mouth of the partner. Oral sex is usually used in foreplay to arouse one or both participants, and it is one of the best ways of getting sexual pleasure without the risk of getting pregnant. It is also one of the safest types of sex. Even without protection, the risk of contracting an STD is lower than with anal or vaginal sex.

However, it is still important to practice safe oral sex. If you are not sure how to do that, we have a few tips for you.

Men should wear a condom during oral sex

Although many men dislike wearing condoms, it is the only way to have completely safe oral sex. The condom prevents any fluid from entering the partner’s mouth, which prevents the spread of STDs. If you have a disease on the genitals themselves, a condom will also make sure that the disease is not transferred to your partner’s mouth.

Women should wear a dental dam

Dental dam is perhaps the least sexy name for protection, but this is no reason to dismiss it. A dental dam is a small sheet of latex that is used as a “female condom”. The latex can be used on both the anus and the vagina and protects the partner from contracting an STD.

Oral sex can cause throat cancer

There is actually a type of cancer that can be sexually transmitted. We are talking about cervical cancer, which is caused by a virus calles HPV (Human Papilloma Virus). It is possible to vaccinate against the virus, and in some countries, it is part of the vaccine programme. However, to be completely safe, you should be vaccinated before you engage in any type of sexual activity. If you are vaccinated later, the virus might already be in your body. To avoid putting yourself or others at risk, both you and your partner should be tested for the virus before engaging in unprotected oral sex.