Can I get HIV from oral sex?
Yes, it is possible for
either partner to become infected with HIV through
performing or receiving oral sex. There have been a few
cases of HIV transmission from performing oral sex on a
person infected with HIV. While no one knows exactly what
the degree of risk is, evidence suggests that the risk is
less than that of unprotected anal or vaginal sex.
If the person performing
oral sex has HIV, blood from their mouth may enter the body
of the person receiving oral sex through
- the lining of the
urethra (the opening at the tip of the penis);
- the lining of the
vagina or cervix;
- the lining of the
anus; or
- directly into the body
through small cuts or open sores.
If the person receiving
oral sex has HIV, their blood, semen (cum), pre-seminal
fluid (pre-cum), or vaginal fluid may contain the virus.
Cells lining the mouth of the person performing oral sex may
allow HIV to enter their body.
The risk of HIV
transmission increases
- if the person
performing oral sex has cuts or sores around or in their
mouth or throat;
- if the person
receiving oral sex ejaculates in the mouth of the person
performing oral sex; or
- if the person
receiving oral sex has another sexually transmitted
disease (STD).
Not having (abstaining
from) sex is the most effective way to avoid HIV.
If you choose to perform
oral sex, and your partner is male,
- use a latex condom on
the penis; or
- if you or your partner
is allergic to latex, plastic (polyurethane) condoms can
be used.
Studies have shown that
latex condoms are very effective, though not perfect, in
preventing HIV transmission when used correctly and
consistently. If either partner is allergic to latex,
plastic (polyurethane) condoms for either the male or female
can be used. For more information about latex condoms, see "Male
Latex Condoms and Sexually Transmitted Diseases."
If you choose to have oral
sex, and your partner is female,
- use a latex barrier
(such as a natural rubber latex sheet, a dental dam or a
cut-open condom that makes a square) between your mouth
and the vagina. A latex barrier such as a dental dam
reduces the risk of blood or vaginal fluids entering
your mouth. Plastic food wrap also can be used as a
barrier.
If you choose to perform
oral sex with either a male or female partner and this sex
includes oral contact with your partners anus (analingus or
rimming),
- use a latex barrier
(such as a natural rubber latex sheet, a dental dam or a
cut-open condom that makes a square) between your mouth
and the anus. Plastic food wrap also can be used as a
barrier.
If you choose to share sex
toys with your partner, such as dildos or vibrators,
- each partner should
use a new condom on the sex toy; and
- be sure to clean sex
toys between each use.
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