Oral Sex and STIs: Yes, Blowjobs Count Too

“We only had oral” can describe a very enjoyable evening. It doesn't mean STIs were automatically off the guest list.

Giving or receiving oral sex can transmit infections, including gonorrhoea, syphilis, herpes and HPV. The risk varies by infection and contact. You don't need to panic about enjoying a blowjob or going down on someone. You do need better information than “surely that doesn't count”.

Match the barrier to the body part

For oral sex on a penis, an external condom covers the penis. For oral contact with a vulva or anus, a dental dam sits between the mouth and the skin.

Use a new barrier each time and when changing body areas. Keep it in place throughout the contact. Our dental dam guide explains how to use one without unnecessary fuss.

If latex is a problem, choose an appropriate non-latex barrier. The condom materials guide explains why “non-latex” isn't one single material with one set of rules.

A shower doesn't tell you someone's STI status

Someone can look healthy and have no noticeable symptoms while carrying an STI. Being freshly washed, charming or very good at remembering your coffee order doesn't change that.

Barriers reduce risk without removing it completely. Some infections can spread through skin the barrier doesn't cover. Oral contact with the anus can also pass on intestinal infections.

Mouthwash isn't a substitute for protection or testing. Minty breath has its charms, but it doesn't do that job.

Tell the clinic about the oral sex

When you arrange testing, say what kinds of sex you've had. Depending on your circumstances, throat or rectal swabs may be relevant alongside genital samples, urine or blood tests.

A routine blood test for something else isn't automatically an STI screen. Ask what you're being tested for and whether timing means you need another test later.

With a partner, talk about when you last tested and any new partners since. You don't have to sound like a medical receptionist. “Have you had an STI check recently?” is an ordinary question between people planning to get naked.

Put the supplies where you can reach them

Keep barriers nearby so using one doesn't mean abandoning the bedroom to search the bathroom cupboard. Our condom range is one place to sort supplies before the flirting gets distracting.

If either of you has sores, unusual symptoms or concerns about an exposure, pause sexual contact and get advice from a sexual health service. They can advise on testing, treatment and relevant vaccination.

Protection is part of deciding what you both want. Our guide to speaking plainly during sex helps keep the conversation simple. You can be keen on someone and still want a barrier. Those two things get along perfectly well.