Many people falsely believe that sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can only be transmitted through unprotected vaginal or anal sex. Oral sex, however, is another major way that many STDs can spread.
Learn which STDs can be transmitted through oral sex and what you can do to protect yourself.
Oral Sex and STDs
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 85% of sexually active adults aged 18-44 years reported having had oral sex at least once with a partner of the opposite sex, and 41% of teenagers aged 15-19 years reported having had oral sex with a partner of the opposite sex.
You can contract virtually any STD from oral sex. These include the following:
Two STDs that are very rare to transmit through oral sex include HIV and Trichomoniasis.
There are certain factors that may increase a person’s risk for contracting an STD through oral sex, including:
- Having poor oral health which can cause tooth decay or gum disease
- Having sores in the mouth or on the genitals
If you contracted an STD from oral sex, there are several treatments that can improve your symptoms or cure the infection entirely. The STDs that may be cured include syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis. Other STDs, on the other hand, have no cure, including hepatitis B, herpes, HIV, and HPV.
In the state of California, sexually active adults must inform their partners of their STD status. They must also remain informed on their STD status by getting tested regularly. The failure to fulfill either of these duties can be considered negligence and may make them liable in an STD lawsuit.
At KMD Law, our team can help you obtain justice after an unexpected STD transmission while protecting your privacy.
Contact KMD Law at (833) 456-3529 to schedule a consultation.
