Hiv being passed through oral sex. This includes blood, semen, and vaginal fluid.
Hiv being passed through oral sex. Anyone who has sex is at risk of acquiring one, including people with HIV. It's probably unrealistic to expect any method of prevention to give 100% Pregnant people can pass HIV to their baby during pregnancy, childbirth, and breast/chestfeeding. But this is not the case for HIV. Sep 18, 2025 · Syphilis is passed from person to person through direct contact with a syphilis sore. Learn about how people can transmit STDs This risk is heightened if the non-infected individual performing oral sex has wounds in the throat and/or mouth, if the HIV infected individual ejaculates in his/her partners mouth or if the person receiving oral sex has a sexually transmitted disease (STD). You can’t get HIV from sexual activities that don’t involve contact with body fluids (such as kissing, massage, and self or mutual masturbation). This is sometimes referred to as 'Undetectable equals Untransmittable' or 'U=U'. Aug 23, 2019 · HSV-2 is rarely transmitted through oral sex, but that doesn't mean it's impossible. Jan 27, 2025 · Oral sex, such as fellatio, cunnilingus, or rimming, can spread sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). PrEP can be pills or shots. ) There is little to no risk of getting HIV through oral sex. More questions? Oct 6, 2023 · Many myths exist about HIV transmission. But the risk is very low compared with unprotected vaginal or anal sex, however other sexually transmitted infections can be transmitted through oral sex. Apr 21, 2025 · Have sex with an HIV-positive person when you have a sexually transmitted infection (STI). We combine an online HIV Policy Resource Bank, a creative national advocacy agenda, and case assistance focused on systems and institutions with significant impact on marginalized communities. Deano Reyes, an LGBTQ+ health doctor and the medical director of Hara Clinic, a holistic gender and sexual health clinic, people engage in oral sex for pleasure Results Risk of HIV transmission was greatest for blood transfusion, followed by vertical exposure, sexual exposures, and other parenteral exposures. Both involved transmission from the partner getting oral sex to the partner giving oral sex. e. Apr 30, 2025 · While HIV cannot be spread through casual contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils, people can still have doubts if there is even a chance of infection. Jul 8, 2025 · Sex can include a range of different activities. This means that the virus can be passed on through oral sex and can result in cold sores on the mouth as well as blisters on the genitals. Feb 20, 2024 · This provides a way for HIV to enter the body. The variability in sexual HIV transmission, following vaginal and rectal sexual exposure, is largely associated with differences in mucosal immune activation at the site of HIV acquisition (83). Sep 15, 2025 · When HIV is effectively treated and viral load is undetectable, it cannot be transmitted through sex (known as Undetectable = Untransmittable, or U=U). Mar 18, 2022 · Syphilis is a bacterial infection that spreads easily through anal, vaginal and oral sex without a condom. Feb 13, 2025 · Line HIV transmission is a topic surrounded by myths and misconceptions, one of the most common being its spread through saliva. SEXUAL ACTIVITIES Some sexual activities are riskier than others for getting or transmitting HIV. After all, we can still want to give or receive oral sex even when we’re Apr 1, 2023 · Swallowing sperm is a relatively standard part of oral sex, but it’s worth being aware of the potential risks when doing so with a person who’s living with an STI. Abstract Oral sex is commonly practiced by sexually active male-female and same-gender couples of various ages, including adolescents. For mothers who are HIV-positive and pregnant, there is a small number of chances of transmitting When it comes to HIV, oral sex is much safer sex than vaginal or anal sex. This comprehensive guide breaks down the myths, provides factual information, and helps you understand your risk. Because syphilis sores can be painless and hidden in the vagina, anus, under the foreskin of the penis, or in the mouth, it is possible to have syphilis sores and not know it. Aug 17, 2011 · They can pass the herpes virus that causes the cold sore to a partner’s genitals during oral sex. Anal sex Either partner can get HIV during anal sex. Receptive anal sex is the most common mode of sexual HIV HIV can only be passed when the virus in one of these fluids gets into the bloodstream of an HIV-negative person—through broken skin, the opening of the penis or the wet linings of the body, such as the vagina, rectum or foreskin. Jan 5, 2023 · Reports document one case of female-to-female transmission of HIV through cunnilingus and another case of female-to-male transmission of HIV through cunnilingus. This is referred to as undetectable equals Aug 1, 2023 · Explore the realities of HIV transmission through oral sex. What are chances of getting HIV? This page gives HIV transmission rates associated with vaginal, anal and oral sex, as well as pregnancy and sharing needles. HIV therapy suppresses the replication of the virus in the body so effectively that the virus eventually becomes Feb 12, 2025 · While saliva, tears, and sweat are all bodily fluids, HIV isn’t transmitted through them. However, you can acquire HIV from your partner, especially if they have bleeding gums, mouth ulcers, or gum disease. Unprotected sex – HIV can be passed through vaginal, anal, or oral sex without the use of protection. They are very common and are usually passed on during unprotected sex. STIs can increase the risk of HIV transmission Jun 3, 2024 · If you have HIV and your viral load becomes undetectable, can you still spread the virus? Get the facts. While it may be theoretically possible to get HIV from a rim job (i. This includes blood, semen, and vaginal fluid. Learn how to protect yourself with Ada Health. In Ireland, and worldwide, it is now recommended that everyone diagnosed with HIV starts treatment as soon as possible. How is HIV transmitted? Reducing the Risk of HIV Transmission Through Oral Sex The consequences of HIV infection are life-long, life-threatening, and extremely serious. While it's not risk-free, the chances of spreading the virus that causes AIDS are very low, especially if Jul 22, 2025 · If you’re living with HIV or AIDS, you may worry about spreading the virus to partners through sex. Learn more information about the different types of sex and how to practice safer sex. Jul 5, 2018 · Get an HIV doctor’s answers to your burning questions about undetectable viral load—and what it means for your health and your sex life. The risk of HIV being passed on during oral sex centres on fluid containing HIV (semen, vaginal fluid or blood) finding a way into the bloodstream of an HIV-negative person (via the mouth or throat, which is more likely if there is inflammation, or cuts or sores present). Nonsexual transmission Some STDs can also be spread non-sexually through blood transfusions and shared needles. And there hasn’t been a single documented case of HIV transmission to an insertive partner (the person being “sucked”) during unprotected oral sex, either among MSM or heterosexuals. Transmission to either partner can occur during both vaginal and anal sex. Mar 18, 2023 · The human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, has existed in the United States since at least the 1970s, but misconceptions about how it’s transmitted persist. The risk is not zero. Some STIs can also be transmitted from mother-to-child during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding, and unsafe blood transfusion. Prevention steps include abstaining from oral sex, using condoms, and taking medication to suppress the herpes virus. Apr 11, 2014 · If you’re falling in love or dating, you don’t view your partner as an HIV threat, despite the fact that as much as two-thirds of HIV today is spread through relationships. Also, we can imagine a scenario where an HIV-infected person's mouth is bleeding when he or she is As the risk of transmission through oral sex is estimated to be much lower than for vaginal and anal intercourse in the absence of antiretroviral therapy, it is implausible that the risk of transmission through oral sex is not affected in the same way as other sexual transmission risks when effective treatment suppresses viral load. HIV can easily pass through the mucus membranes in the genitals and the rectum, or may pass through cuts and sores. This is enough evidence to know that so long as someone has an undetectable viral load they are unable to pass HIV on through vaginal or anal sex. Hepatitis A and B: Hepatitis A can be passed through rimming as the virus is present in the feces (stool) of people who have been infected. HIV can be passed from a pregnant mother to her unborn child. It is much lower than for other types of unprotected sexual activity. Most human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected men who have sex with men (MSM) had never used a Jan 5, 2024 · HIV can be transmitted through unprotected sex, needles that contain blood with HIV in it, and during childbirth or breastfeeding/chestfeeding. But other infections, like herpes, syphilis, hepatitis B, gonorrhea, and HPV, can be passed during oral sex. The Center for HIV Law and Policy is a national resource and advocacy organization working to advance the rights of people afected by HIV. While it’s important to understand how HIV is transmitted, this article will clarify these misconceptions and provide accurate information. Both men and women can give and receive oral sex. There have been no cases reported of HIV transmission through oral-anal sex. Oral Aug 8, 2019 · Q: Can you get HIV through oral sex? The risk of getting HIV through receiving oral sex (that is, a partner's mouth on your genitals) is very, very low. However, other No. The fears are real, and this article is here to clear the air about how HIV is transmitted and how transmission can be prevented. Sexual Relationships In 8 out of 10 cases HIV is transmitted during sex between a man and a woman or between two men. The virus is primarily transmitted through specific body fluids such as blood, semen, and Oct 13, 2020 · An STD can be passed through vaginal sex, anal sex, and oral sex. The risk of transmission through Oral sex has a very low risk of HIV transmission. Mar 25, 2010 · In the United States, HIV is most commonly transmitted through specific sexual behaviors (anal or vaginal sex) or sharing needles with an infected person. HIV is not spread through saliva. The reality is you can get HIV from oral sex when certain conditions are present. Mar 25, 2023 · There are many misconceptions about HIV transmission. Use of condoms or dental dams for oral sex with both men and women essentially eliminate any risk of HIV being passed. Discussion The first part of this Statement focuses on the possibility of HIV transmission during specific acts that are commonly considered in prosecutions: sexual activity, biting or spitting 3. People can get HIV one of these fluids enters the body by way of the mucous membranes (the soft, moist skin found in any opening of the body) or the bloodstream. This article explains why a person cannot contract the virus through food, water, touch, and several other means. Oct 14, 2010 · Many people also believe that two women or two men can lose their virginity through oral or anal intercourse. It is less common for HIV to be transmitted through oral sex or for an HIV-infected woman to pass the virus to her baby before or during childbirth or after birth through breastfeeding or by prechewing food for her infant. However, the following points are clear: It is possible to get infected with HIV through oral sex. HOW IS HIV PASSED FROM ONE PERSON TO ANOTHER? Most people get or transmit HIV through one of the following ways: Anal sex Vaginal sex Sharing needles, syringes, or other drug ejection equipment Perinatal transmission (from birthing parent to child during pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding) Not every exposure to HIV carries the same risk and some activities are riskier than others. HIV stays in the body for life, but treatment can keep the virus under control and the immune system healthy. HIV is an STI that can progress to a disease called acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) when it is untreated. HIV cannot be transmitted through everyday activities. Examples of less common routes of transmission include oral sex and transmission during Unprotected oral sex carries a risk of the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), especially if the individual has poor oral health. Because of the fluids involved in HIV transmission, it most commonly occurs through anal and vaginal sex. Learn more about the conditions and prevention. Oral sex is infrequently examined in research on adolescents; oral sex can transmit oral, respiratory, and genital pathogens. Feb 14, 2025 · People with durably undetectable HIV can’t transmit HIV to others through unprotected oral, anal, or vaginal sex. There is no cure for HIV, but there are treatments available that can help prolong a person’s life. There is a very small chance of an HIV-negative person getting HIV from giving fellatio (a blow job) if the person with HIV ejaculates (cums) in their mouth. The risk of HIV infection from oral sex is quite low, however, risk can be higher for other sexaully transmitted diseases through oral sex. We can't say that there's zero risk, because there are a few cases of HIV infection in people who have no other known risk factors for HIV. Although it is biologically possible for HIV to be transmitted through oral sex, it is a physiological improbability, meaning it is basically impossible to do so. Dec 5, 2024 · Yes, you can get an STI from oral sex. Even in hook-ups, people aren’t likely tabulating their HIV risk. The virus is passed on when infected blood, semen, or vaginal fluids from one Aug 6, 2024 · We now know you can’t get HIV from kissing, and it’s nearly impossible for the virus to be transmitted through oral sex — especially if you’re using a barrier method and/or PrEP. It can also be passed on through sharing contaminated needles and injecting equipment and from mother-to-child during pregnancy. HIV can sometimes be transmitted through oral sex. Understanding how HIV passes from one person to another during intimate contact is crucial for prevention, education, and making informed decisions about sexual health. STIs like chlamydia, herpes, gonorrhoea, syphilis and HPV can all be transmitted orally. This includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex, plus intimate skin-to-skin contact. Apr 21, 2025 · While HIV transmission through oral sex is rare, individual risk factors like having open wounds in your mouth, performing oral sex on someone with HIV instead of being the receptive partner, and having untreated infections can increase the risk of transmission. The risk of HIV infection through oral sex is extremely low. 3 years, the couples reported over 36,000 vaginal sex acts without condoms. Jul 2, 1998 · Has HIV transmission ever been reported through receiving oral sex? Recently, a case report of HIV transmission through receiving oral sex was reported in the medical literature. HIV is most commonly transmitted through unprotected sex or sharing needles with someone infected. It’s not as common as some sexually transmitted infections but if left untreated it can lead to serious health problems. There is very little to no chance of passing HIV through oral sex, but some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be passed. Get the facts. Oral sex presents a significantly lower risk of HIV transmission compared to anal or vaginal sex, but certain factors can increase that risk. Aug 7, 2023 · HIV: Only the person performing oral sex can contract HIV, but the risk is very low, at around 0. Most commonly, people get or transmit HIV through sexual behavio Aug 8, 2019 · Q: If I am on HIV medications and my viral load is undetectable (meaning that the virus isn't showing up on blood tests), can I still pass the virus to another person through sex? Our current HIV medication regimens (antiretroviral therapy, or ART) are extremely effective at preventing HIV transmission to a sex partner if the HIV viral load is undetectable. During a median follow-up period of 1. oral-anal sex or eating ass), most health experts believe this is safe sex in terms of HIV transmission. Nov 30, 2019 · People who have partners who suffer from HIV should be cautious. Note that ejaculation does not have to occur for an STI to be transmitted from one partner to another. Aug 19, 2021 · It can also be passed on by sharing sex toys or during oral sex. Even though the risk of transmitting HIV through oral sex is much lower than that of anal or vaginal sex, numerous studies have demonstrated that oral sex can result in the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). For example, herpes and syphilis are spread by contact with infectious sores or lesions, so oral sex could definitely spread these infections regardless of ejaculation The couples had 77,000 acts of unprotected anal sex and, again, no HIV was passed on. Saliva breaks down the virus, and the mucous membranes in the mouth are more protective than anal or vaginal tissue. That said, pregnancy (passing from mother to child) and sharing of needles are also ways that HIV can be passed from one person to another. Risky sexual behavior is one of the most common ways HIV spreads from person to person. Despite advancements in medical research and treatment, understanding how HIV can be transmitted is crucial for prevention, reducing stigma, and promoting informed decisions about oral health and overall well-being. PEP. Refraining from sexual behavior is the most successful method in preventing HIV. Mar 25, 2019 · Oral sex is when a person uses their mouth to play with another person's penis, vagina or anus. The reason I think I got it from oral is because this guy is the only one I have been with for 3 months and I got tested negative after the previous partners. Saliva is not a risk, even if it contains traces of blood. And the same STIs that you can catch via penetrative sex (like gonorrhea, genital herpes, syphilis, and HPV) can be caught through oral sex too. The virus can be passed during vaginal, anal or oral Mar 26, 2014 · So how do we go from the odds being 1 out of 70 that HIV will be transmitted during the most risky sex act to the odds being 1 out of 2 that young gay men in the United States will contract HIV before they’re 50? (And before you even think it: No, the answer is not that everyone with HIV is a ginormous slut who has never heard of safer sex. How Do You Get AIDS? You can’t “catch” AIDS, which stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. May 13, 2025 · Here’s how it can spread: Unprotected sex – HIV can be passed through vaginal, anal, or oral sex without the use of protection. An STD develops when that infection causes symptoms or disease. AIDS kills by making a person unable to fight off disease. Jun 20, 2025 · An STI is an infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites passed through sexual contact. Sep 7, 2025 · Sexually transmitted diseases (sexually transmitted infections, or STIs) are typically transmitted or passed through sexual activity such as oral, vaginal, or anal sex. If you May 15, 2025 · HIV is primarily transmitted through anal or vaginal sex without a condom or medicine to prevent HIV, or through sharing needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment. 2 HIV is primarily transmitted through: 1,2 Unprotected sex with Jun 29, 2020 · You can get an STD through contact with semen in oral sex, but if the person “giving head” has an STD, could the other contract it by means of penile-saliva contact? For example, herpes can be easily spread during oral sex, because it’s passed through skin-to-skin contact and not just fluids HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, can be transmitted through various means, including through x-rays. Learn how to prevent STDs and when to see a doctor here. We present a review of available evidence on the oral-genital transmission of HIV and analyse the factors that act to protect oral tissues from infection, thereby reducing the risk of HIV transmission by oral sex. The risks vary depending on which infection we are discussing. Sharing needles – People who use injectable drugs face a high risk if they share needles or syringes. The risk of getting an STD or spreading an STD to others through oral sex depends on several things, including the particular STD, type of sex, and number of sex acts performed. When HIV is transmitted through sex, only the strongest versions of the virus establish long-term infection. The main ways the virus spreads are through unprotected vaginal or anal sex or from sharing needles, syringes or other equipment to inject drugs. Conditions such as syphilis or gonorrhea can create sores or inflammation that facilitate easier entry There is very little risk of getting HIV from giving oral sex, but having cuts or sores in your mouth, gum disease, having an STI in your throat, or recent dental work increases your risk. HIV Transmission bout how HIV is transmitted. Sep 20, 2024 · How is HIV passed on? Oral sex and HIV HIV and travel HIV and AIDS HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus which affects the immune system – the body’s defence against diseases. HIV is passed from person to person. But transmission of HIV, though extremely rare, is theoretically possible if an HIV-positive man ejaculates in his partner’s mouth during oral sex. xxii The time period between exposure and an antibody test’s ability to verify infection through standard oral or blood antibody testing may be as long as 6 weeks (the time it takes for the body to make enough antibodies to lead to a positive test result). There is no cure. Some viruses, like the common cold and flu, can live on surfaces for days and still be infectious. Mar 19, 2025 · How does someone get HIV? HIV can be transmitted through the blood, sexual fluids (semen, preseminal fluid, rectal fluid, or vaginal fluid) or breast milk of an HIV-infected person. This is also likely the case in oral HIV acquisition. In particular, myHIVteam members and other people living with HIV often question whether oral sex can transmit (pass) the virus to partners. We know that oral sex does carry risk for STI transmission. Also, semen in the eye or mouth is not sufficient to transmit HIV. Jan 18, 2023 · Certain factors can increase the risk of HIV being transmitted through oral sex. Dec 7, 2023 · Therefore, unprotected sexual activities, such as oral sex, vaginal sex, or anal sex, can potentially lead to HIV transmission even if ejaculation does not occur. The Role of Other STIs Having other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can increase susceptibility to acquiring and transmitting HIV. Aug 8, 2019 · HIV for Veterans and the Public Frequently Asked Questions Q: Can you get HIV through oral sex? The risk of getting HIV through receiving oral sex (that is, a partner's mouth on your genitals) is very, very low. Aug 26, 2016 · The chance of HIV being passed on even though a condom was used is really quite tiny, even if it isn't totally impossible. There haven’t been any documented cases of HIV transmission the other way around. In general, there’s little to no risk of getting HIV from oral sex. Using a barrier (condom or dental dam) for oral Jan 15, 2025 · If you're worried about HIV infection, you may wonder whether it's safe to have oral sex. Let’s start with the fact that HIV is not easily transmitted as many people mistakenly believe. Aug 21, 2025 · While oral sex (which includes oral-penile, oral-vaginal, and oral-anal) is not considered an efficient route of HIV transmission, there are exceptions. With good info, healthy habits, and smart protection, you’ve got the power to enjoy your sex life and stay safe. Many wonder “Can I get HIV from receiving oral sex?”. Testing regularly for HIV is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of HIV. Jul 30, 2025 · What are the odds of getting an STD from oral sex? Learn how various factors, types of STDs, and types of oral sex can influence the risk of infection. Stay informed, stay safe. Jan 25, 2024 · There are many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) that people can get as a result of having oral sex, including gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia. The risk of getting HIV through giving oral sex (that is, your mouth on a partner's genitals) is low compared with unprotected vaginal or anal sex, but there is some risk. Eight pathogens are linked to the greatest incidence of STIs. Oral-Vaginal Sex Like fellatio, this is also considered a low risk activity. HIV targets immune cells for entry into the body. However, studying oral HIV transmission is particularly challenging in human adults. Read on to find out what they are and how you can help prevent transmission. It is passed through body fluids. Jul 2, 2025 · HIV is most commonly transmitted through anal and vaginal sex and the sharing of drug injection equipment. STIs—also commonly referred to as sexually transmitted May 24, 2024 · HIV transmission through sexual activities remains one of the most significant pathways for the spread of this virus globally. The investigators concluded that the risk of HIV transmission through vaginal intercourse in these circumstances was effectively zero (Rodger). 04%. Nov 28, 2023 · Oral sex: However, having mouth ulcers, genital sores, or bleeding gums can increase the risk of transmission, as can having existing sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Combined, these two studies included 113,000 acts of condomless sex, during which no HIV is passed on. That’s because these infections are spread through infected skin-to-skin contact and/or saliva. However, HSV-1 can be transmitted from one person's mouth to another person's genitals during oral sex. This comprehensive guide delves into the various modes of HIV transmission, preventive Sexually Transmitted and Blood-borne Infections (STBBI) Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections that are transmitted during sex. Jul 30, 2024 · HIV is found in certain bodily fluids of people living with HIV, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids and breastmilk. While HIV is primarily spread through blood, sexual contact, and shared needles, the role of saliva in Having an undetectable viral load not only stops HIV being passed on through sex, it is also good for your health. People of all sexes, genders and sexual orientations enjoy oral sex! It’s not possible to get pregnant from oral sex. Unprotected sex. Feb 21, 2024 · Receiving oral sex: Having your genitals licked, sucked, or bitten carries less chance of HIV transmission than giving oral sex. STI testing, prevention, and treatment should be part of regular HIV care for sexually active people. You can catch syphilis more than once Feb 23, 2024 · Questions about HIV transmission through oral sex appear all over the internet and are often linked with inaccurate information. Feb 18, 2021 · How HIV is spread Through vaginal or anal sex. You can also get HIV from sharing needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment (for example, cookers) with someone who has HIV. The risk appears to be higher if you have cuts or sores in your mouth. If you use a lubricant, be sure it is water-based. In this review, we assess the epidemiologic and anecdotal evi-dence for oral HIV transmission, review current labora-tory investigations of the oral ecology of HIV, and suggest a classification scheme and an epidemiologic approach for further delineation of the role of oral sex-ual activity. The risk of female-to-female sexual transmission is extremely rare, with only a handful of reported cases. According to Dr. HIV cannot spread through casual contact (such as hugging), surfaces in the environment, saliva, sweat, tears, or insect bites. Whether you are giving oral sex to a man or a woman? Giving oral sex to a woman is likely to be zero or close to zero risk. There are vaccinations Can HIV be transmitted through oral sex (fellatio and cunnilingus)? Yes, but the risk is relatively low. Nov 4, 2024 · Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a significant public health challenge worldwide. There are many types of STDs, and they are caused by bacteria, parasites or viruses. Even without visible sores, herpes increases the number of immune cells in the lining of the genitals. Sexual transmission accounts for the majority of new HIV infections worldwide, making it essential May 28, 2019 · It is possible for oral sex to transmit HIV, whether the infected partner is performing or receiving oral sex. Good dental care is recommended such as daily flossing and brushing of teeth. You must have an undetectable viral load for at least 6 months before you’re considered to have durably undetectable HIV. Blood Transmission In addition to sexual transmission, HIV can also be transmitted through blood. Sep 8, 2025 · How Can You Prevent Getting or Transmitting HIV through Sex? There are powerful tools to prevent HIV transmission through anal or vaginal sex, including: PrEP. It’s also true that some sexually transmitted infections are passed in ways other than just sex. Apr 14, 2025 · Key Points Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that spread from person to person through sexual activity, including anal, vaginal, or oral sex. Being the bottom or having your partner's penis inside your rectum (butthole) makes you more likely to get HIV than being the top or putting your penis inside your partner's rectum. Here, doctors weigh in on the risks of oral sex, oral-sex STDs, and the best oral-sex protection. Blood-borne Infections (BBIs) are infections that are transmitted from one person to another in the blood stream by exposure to the blood and body fluids of another (ie: a needle Jun 29, 2023 · If the menstruating person is on effective HIV treatment with an undetectable viral load, there is no chance of HIV being passed through menstrual blood. Why the Language Matters Sep 14, 2022 · What Is HIV? HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, making the person susceptible to other infections and illnesses, which can be deadly. There is no risk of infection from sharing clothes, cooking utensils, cutlery, crockery or public toilets. Get tested and treated if you've been exposed at BLISS Health. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections passed from an infected person to another through oral sex, anal or vaginal sexual intercourse, or genital touching. It does not reference other ways HIV may be transmitted, for example, through blood transfusion, needle stick injury, injecting drugs or Key points The two main ways in which HIV is passed on are unprotected vaginal and anal sex. They have not come to clear conclusions. The most common way to get or transmit HIV through sexual activity is from having anal or vaginal sex without using protection (condoms or medicines like PrEP and PEP). Sep 18, 2025 · How Do Sexually Transmitted Infections Affect People with HIV? Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are very common among people who are sexually active. These figures illustrate that while oral sex does pose some risk for transmitting HIV, it remains much lower compared to anal or vaginal intercourse. Other Infections Less Likely to Spread Through Kissing HIV transmission requires specific conditions such as blood-to-blood contact or sexual fluids entering mucous membranes. You can reduce your risk by always wearing a condom during sex. Even quick penetration or vaginal/anal sex without ejaculation are risky. Whether you are receiving or giving oral sex? Receiving oral sex is zero. Oct 28, 2024 · HIV transmission: through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to child. The following three research studies Apr 29, 2025 · HIV transmission is often surrounded by fear and misinformation, leading many to wonder about the risks of everyday activities—like kissing. Oral sex is using your mouth, lips or tongue to stimulate your partner’s genitals or anus. An individual is most infectious during the first 6 weeks after infection with HIV (“acute infection”). Aug 23, 2023 · The virus can pass through direct contact with fluid or by sharing syringes. Myth: HIV can be transmitted through casual contact A common misconception is that HIV can be spread through everyday interactions like shaking hands, touching surfaces, and sharing utensils. Many factors Unprotected sex – HIV can be passed through vaginal, anal, or oral sex without the use of protection. Mar 27, 2025 · Cold sores most often are associated with HSV-1 while genital herpes is associated with HSV-2. Cervical/vaginal fluid, even if infectious, is more difficult to get in your Having unprotected anal and vaginal sex In most cases, HIV is transmitted during sex with someone who has HIV. Sep 10, 2025 · Overview More than 30 different bacteria, viruses and parasites are known to be transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal and oral sex. Apr 27, 2023 · Oral sex and a sore throat may seem like an unlikely combination, but you’re not alone in being curious about this. Having an undetectable viral load means that there is not enough of the virus in body fluids to pass on HIV during sex, including oral sex, vaginal sex, and anal sex. No HIV transmissions occurred. Mar 11, 2024 · While humans cannot conceive as a result of oral sex alone, certain viral and non-viral sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can still be passed between sex partners through the act of oral sex. However, you can get some STIs through other transmission routes, including blood transfusions, contaminated objects including sex toys, or casual conduct like sharing food. When left untreated, an STI can become a sexually transmitted disease. Apr 13, 2023 · Although kissing is low-risk compared to penile-vaginal intercourse, anal sex, and oral sex, it is still possible to spread oral (HSV-1) and genital (HSV-2) herpes, HPV, monkeypox and syphilis through deep-mouth kissing alone. coli and Salmonella. I have only ever done oral with this guy and two weeks after I started getting symptoms associated with HIV such as headache, sore throat, oral thrush, body aches and neuropathy. Aug 17, 2023 · The risk of transmission through oral sex with a vagina is very low because the mouth is an unfriendly environment for HIV. xxiii During this phase of Sep 4, 2011 · WebMD discusses the health risks of oral sex, how to protect yourself, and more. The virus can enter the body through the bloodstream or by passing through delicate mucous membranes, such as inside the vagina, rectum or urethra. Jul 10, 2014 · HIV particles (red) invade a human immune cell. Nov 25, 2024 · How HIV is transmitted You can get HIV if you have anal or vaginal sex with someone who has HIV without using protection (like condoms or medicine to prevent HIV). Anal sex is riskier than vaginal sex. 2. When it comes to oral sex, there are many myths around the transmission of HIV. In this article, we address the concerns of oral sex can transmit HIV, factors affecting transmission risk, and how to practice safer sex. This article describes the transmission of HIV through oral sex and provides some prevention tips. Oral-anal sex can, however, transmit shigella, amoeba, giardia, hepatitis A and maybe even syphilis and gonorrhea. The virus can also be transmitted during pregnancy, childbirth, and nursing. However, even though symptoms are not present, you’re still To avoid infection through sex, the only sure way is not to have sex — vaginal, anal or oral — or to have sex only with someone who is not infected and who only has sex with you. Jun 24, 2025 · Oral sex is the act which involves the use of the mouth, lips or tongue to stimulate a partner’s genitals or anus. Sep 2, 2011 · But, in general, becoming infected with HIV by receiving oral sex is probably a very rare occurrence. Jun 3, 2022 · Huge disclaimer here: The CDC lists HIV as an STI that can technically be transmitted through oral sex, but the risk is very low. Vaginal, Anal and Oral Sex The risk of becoming infected with HIV or an other sexually transmitted disease increases through having unprotected vaginal or anal sex. Here's what you need to know about herpes transmission. Transmission through oral sex usually occurs from the insertive to the receptive partner; and the risk of HIV transmission during oral sex increases if: the receptive partner's mouth is breached in some way allowing HIV to enter. This section focuses on sexual contact transmission and blood contact transmission. This is when someone’s mouth is on your genitals or anus. In the United Unlike other mucosal areas of the body, the oral cavity appears to be an extremely uncommon transmission route for HIV. HIV causes AIDS. Oral sex and especially anal sex, whether it occurs in a heterosexual or homosexual context, are possible ways of transmitting the virus. Some STIs are transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, including oral-genital and oral-anal contact. Oct 21, 2024 · Explore the various ways HIV can be transmitted, including through unprotected sex, sharing needles, and mother-to-child transmission. If a person has HIV and is not on HIV treatment, the virus will weaken the body’s immune system and the person will progress to AIDS. . Feb 27, 2020 · The oral cavity has a thick epithelial layer, fewer CD4 target cells, and contains antiviral antibodies. Oral health has a direct impact on the transmission of For people giving oral sex, HIV transmission can happen through sores or cuts in the mouth or through the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. The various type of oral sex practices are fellatio, cunnilingus and analingus. One survey asked young MSM who cruised for sex online to list their main worries. May 29, 2024 · While the risk of contracting most STIs from oral sex is lower than for vaginal or anal sex, there is still the risk of transmission. WHAT ABOUT ORAL SEX? There have been many studies of HIV transmission through oral sex. Answers to commonly asked questions about HIV and AIDS, including how is HIV transmitted, what are the risks and what is undetectable? Aug 21, 2025 · How do I go about dating with HIV? Oral sex and HIV: the bottom line So, how do oral sex and HIV mix? The real answer: they can mix—but they don’t have to (and probably won’t) lead to transmission. Some people might be exposed to HIV by sharing needles or other injecting equipment when taking drugs. You may also wonder whether different types of sexual activity are “safer,” or less likely to cause HIV, than others. Hugging, kissing and even oral sex are also safe. A 2008 meta-analysis by Baggaley and others reviewed 10 studies calculating the risk of HIV transmission through oral sex, finding that only 4 of those studies reported any measurable risk from unprotected oral intercourse. Using latex condoms correctly every time you have vaginal, anal or oral sex can greatly lower your risk of infection. Read more about risks of HIV/AIDS exposure, including the challenges in calculating, types of sex with varying percentages, and interpreting the numbers. PrEP is highly effective when taken as prescribed. Blood transfusions – Though rare today due to rigorous screening, it remains a possible route. AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. By sharing needles or syringes, such as when using drugs From a mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding Through oral sex, but getting HIV from oral sex is very rare. HIV, for instance, can be transmitted from a mother to her baby during birth or through breastfeeding. We can't say that there's zero risk, because there are a few cases of HIV infection in people who have no other known risk factors for Sep 17, 2025 · HIV can’t be passed through healthy, unbroken skin. Gonorrhoea is passed on through: Oral sex Fucking or getting fucked Fingering and fisting, if your hands have come into contact with infected bodily fluids How to tell if I have gonorrhoea? If you have a gonorrhoea infection, it’s fairly common not to show any symptoms at all. This section provides the facts about HIV risk from different types of sex, injection dr Expand All Collapse All How is HIV passed from one person to another? through specific activities. Understanding these transmission pathways is crucial for preventing the spread of the virus and protecting one’s health. While oral sex carries a low risk of HIV transmission, it is still much lower than with anal or vaginal sex. Many sexually transmitted infections can be passed through oral sex and anal sex as well as vaginal intercourse, and some infections can also be passed by skin-to-skin contact. Mar 20, 2019 · From genital herpes to syphilis, here are some of the STIs you can get when giving or receiving oral sex. Condoms, PrEP and HIV treatment are effective ways of preventing HIV transmission. Sexual exposure risks ranged from low for oral sex to 138 infections per 10 000 exposures for receptive anal intercourse. The virus can very rarely be passed on this way and only if the person with HIV has a detectable viral load. HIV is transmitted through seminal and vaginal fluids, including menstrual fluids. You can lower any already low risk of getting HIV from oral sex by using latex condoms each and every time. Transmission is possible through sharing of sex toys and exposure to blood during sex. When using the mouth on the anus there is the added risk of digestive bacteria and parasites that pass through the anus, such as E. Jul 8, 2025 · HBV has been found in vaginal secretions, saliva, and semen. Oral sex—putting the mouth on the penis (fellatio), vagina (cunnilingus), or anus (rimming). There is extremely low to no chance of getting or transmitting HIV through activities such as oral sex, touching, and kissing. If you don’t have HIV (are HIV-negative), you can take HIV prevention medicine known as PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) to prevent getting HIV. The answers? Aug 7, 2025 · It is possible to contract many STIs through oral sex, including herpes, gonorrhea, and syphilis. HIV can be transmitted by: unprotected vaginal or anal sex, and, in very rare cases, through oral sex with a person living with HIV; Although more commonly transmitted via sexual contact involving genital areas, oral HPV transmission through kissing cannot be ruled out entirely. Having both HIV and genital herpes increases the chance of spreading HIV to a HIV-negative partner during oral, vagina, or anal sex. Can you really get HIV from kissing? This question has been a source of concern for many, but the answer is rooted in scientific evidence. Dec 20, 2023 · Learn about the transmission and risks of STDs via saliva, including oral STIs, and understand the importance of prevention and safe health practices. bm4 rgd3nkgk 3dg crm xkgjt tpetov ndt2sqf jnzg72 vkgxw qptcw