From the Guidelines
The risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from performing oral sex on a man is generally lower than for vaginal or anal sex, but still poses a significant risk for certain infections, such as gonorrhea, herpes, and HPV. For women performing oral sex on men, the most common STIs transmitted include:
- Gonorrhea (20-30% transmission risk) 1
- Herpes (high risk if active lesions present) 1
- Syphilis (significant risk during primary or secondary stages) 1
- HPV (moderate risk) 1
- Chlamydia (lower risk) 1 HIV transmission is very low (estimated at 0.04% per act) unless there are bleeding gums or oral sores 1. To reduce these risks, use condoms during oral sex, get regular STI testing, avoid oral sex if either partner has visible sores or symptoms, maintain good oral health, and consider getting vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis B 1. These statistics highlight why protection matters even during oral sex, as transmission remains possible despite lower risks compared to other sexual activities. Regular STI testing and open communication with partners about sexual history and STI status can also help reduce the risk of transmission 1. Additionally, maintaining good oral health, such as regular dental check-ups and good hygiene practices, can also help reduce the risk of STI transmission 1. Overall, while the risk of STIs from oral sex is lower than from other forms of sexual activity, it is still important to take precautions and prioritize protection to minimize the risk of transmission.
From the Research
Statistics of STI Infection for Women Performing Oral Sex on Men
- The exact statistics of STI infection for women performing oral sex on men are not provided in the available studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, it is known that oral sex can transmit various STIs, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and herpes simplex virus 2, 3.
- The risk of transmission depends on several factors, such as the type of STI, the presence of symptoms, and the use of protection 3.
- Studies have shown that STIs can have serious consequences, including increased risk of HIV transmission and acquisition, as well as infertility in women 4, 5, 6.
- The prevalence of STIs varies by population, with higher rates among young adults, sexual and gender minorities, and racial and ethnic minorities 5.
- Approximately 70% of infections with herpes simplex virus and trichomoniasis, and 53% to 100% of extragenital gonorrhea and chlamydia infections are asymptomatic or associated with few symptoms 5.
Types of STIs that can be Transmitted through Oral Sex
- Gonorrhea: can be transmitted through oral sex, with an estimated 650,000 cases in the US annually 4, 5.
- Chlamydia: can be transmitted through oral sex, with an estimated 3 million cases in the US annually 4, 5.
- Syphilis: can be transmitted through oral sex, with an estimated 70,000 cases in the US annually 4, 5.
- Herpes simplex virus: can be transmitted through oral sex, with an estimated decline in rates from 1999 to 2016 5.
Prevention and Treatment of STIs
- Effective prevention interventions include screening, contact tracing of sexual partners, and promoting effective barrier contraception 5.
- Treatment options are available for gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and trichomoniasis, but antimicrobial resistance limits oral treatment options for gonorrhea and Mycoplasma genitalium 5.
- No cure is available for genital herpes, but antiviral medications can help manage symptoms 5.