Oral Pursuits: A Barrier Is A Good Thing

Starting in middle school, many schoolchildren are taught to use condoms and other protective barriers to prevent pregnancy and disease transmission in their genital region.

But as every dentist knows, good health begins in the mouth.

From cuisine to cunnilingus, everything we ingest affects our body’s organs and tissues. All too often, we regard protective barriers as only necessary for genital-to-genital or genital-to-anal contact. And although the risk of disease transmission is considerably lower in instances of oral stimulation, infection is possible.

Those who have multiple partners, those who do not know their own or their partner’s disease status, and those who have not discussed monogamous exclusivity with their current partner should utilize protective devices to ensure their sexual safety.

I Cannot Become Pregnant Through Oral Sex – Why Is Protection Needed?

During oral stimulation, partners are susceptible to HIV, herpes, gonorrhea, syphilis, genital warts, HPV, hepatitis A and B as well as other intestinal parasites. The linings of our throat and mouth are typically healthy enough to fight off viral infection; however, they become vulnerable when minor tears and tissue breaks occur. Essentially, as with anal and vaginal sex, bacteria and viruses enter through these mini-passages directly into the bloodstream.

Herpes is the most common infection transmitted through oral sex. There are two types of the virus, HSV type 1 and 2. Type one manifests as sores around the mouth and type two is specific to the genital area. However, HSV 1 and HSV 2 are happy to live in any mucous membrane. So if a person with HSV 1 gives oral sex to a partner, that partner can develop sores in the genital region. Conversely, an individual with HSV 2 on their genitals can give the virus to the mouth of the person providing oral stimulation. Once infected, herpes can only be treated – not cured, and can be transmitted to future partners. Herpes Online provides more information about the virus and tips for life after herpes.

Gonorrhea is also quite easily transmitted during oral sex. Generally, the infection is passed from the infected genitals to the throat of the person giving oral sex. However, as with herpes, this process can work in reverse. Though the human body normally clears gonorrhea infection in the throat within a three-month period, genital infections frequently require an antibiotic course and untreated genital infections can wreak havoc on the reproductive tract.

Hepatitis B is transmitted via sexual fluids and so can be transmitted during oral sex. Hepatitis A and intestinal parasites are found in human fecal matter and can be passed on during anal-oral sex and potentially during cunnilingus.

There are well over 100 strains of HPV and the CDC estimates that nearly all sexually active Americans will be infected at some point in their lifetime. Luckily, 99 percent of infected individuals naturally clear their infection without consequence or noticing that they have it. Unfortunately, fifteen strains of HPV have been linked to cancer. For example, HPV16 is the leading cause of oropharyngeal cancer. Thus, having unprotected oral sex with a person with HPV can increase your risk of oral cancer.

As many of these infections are asymptomatic, it can be difficult to know whether you or your partner has an infection. Therefore, as is the case with penetrative sex, it is safer to use a barrier method during oral sex to protect yourself and your partner until your disease status is confirmed negative and you are committed to be monogamous and exclusive with each other.

Barriers Block “Bugs”

Certain barrier contraceptive methods can be used to prevent bacteria and viruses from entering the body during oral sex and these include condoms and dental dams.

Condoms

Lubricated condoms tend to taste bad. Instead of skipping the condom, you could opt for using un-lubricated or flavored condoms. Flavor options include tropical fruit, banana, strawberry, vanilla, grape, mint, chocolate, and cola and flavored condoms are offered by leading brands such as Durex, Lifestyles, and Trustex. You also have the option of using an un-lubricated condom and adding a flavored personal lubricant.

Dental Dams

A dental dam is a thin sheet of non-porous, usually latex, material that is draped over the vulva or anus with the purpose of preventing exchange of fluids, much like a condom. Dental dams are far less common than the standard male condom, but are equally important because they prevent the spread of infections. They can be purchased in drugstores, specialty shops, and online. Like condoms, they come in a variety of colors and flavors.

Dental dams should be checked for holes or weak spots prior to use. They must be held against the vulva or anus tightly during oral sex. SHAPE peers at University of Missouri have created an informative video demonstration about dental dams for those who would like to know more about use. To enhance pleasure for the recipient, water based lubricant can be applied to the side closest to their genitals.

Do not flip the dental dam over during oral sex, as it renders it ineffective for both parties. Like condoms, do not reuse dental dams.

DIY Dental Dam

If you do not have a dental dam on hand, dental dams can be constructed out a male condom quite easily. Take the condom out of the package and cut off the tip. Then cut down the length of the remaining cylinder. This rectangle can be used as a dental dam. Avoid using lubricated or spermicidal condoms as they may taste bad. For increased enjoyment, try using condoms that are marketed as “thin” or “sensitive” or flavored condoms.

Condoms, Dental Dams & Lube