Thank you,
Worried

The risks depend on whether or not the receiver and/or giver was already infected with a sexually transmitted infection (STI), and if so, then which one. Herpes, for example, can definitely be transmitted to the giver or receiver through unprotected oral sex if one of them is in the infectious stage, including when sores are not visible. HIV also can be transmitted through unprotected oral sex (the virus is present in the "pre-cum," not only in the ejaculate), though oral sex is a much less likely route of HIV infection than anal or vaginal intercourse.

Yeast infections, gonorrhea, and syphilis can be transmitted, as can human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus that causes genital warts, and chlamydia, though both are rarely passed on in this way.

To lessen the risks, using safer sex methods, such as unlubed condoms and dams during oral sex, is a good idea. If you're at Columbia, condoms are free and available to all students. You can pick some up at Health Services at Columbia in John Jay or on your floor.

If you're a Columbia student and you're concerned, call x4-7426 to make an appointment for an STI check-up. Let the health care provider know that you are concerned about oral sex and the possibilities of infection with an STI. You can also make an appointment for an HIV test approximately three months after the high-risk activity occurred. At Columbia, free confidential HIV testing is provided for students and their partners by GHAP; you can call x4-7970 to learn about the testing time schedule for the semester.

For more information about oral sex and STI transmission, search Alice's Sexual Health archive.

Alice

Related Q&As

Cunnilingus and sore throat?

Oral sex: No condoms?