STDs and Oral Sex

 

As a healthcare facility founded on the principle of aiding everyone, we at Beduya Dental are never to shy away from topics that others may find too sensitive to discuss, including the relationship between oral sex and certain types of STDs. And just because we think its timely, we’re giving you information you need to avoid contacting these diseases—or recognize them on the onset.

 

Gonorrhea

A bacterial infection that mostly affects mucous membranes, gonorrhea has very mild symptoms, which can make it very hard to detect. It’s not uncommon though. Most people who contracted the disease report soreness or burning in their throat and having swollen mouths. Additional symptoms may include swollen glands and occasionally white spots in your mouth.

If left untreated, gonorrhea can have serious impacts not just in your mouth but your overall health. If you suspect yourself of contracting it, get a throat culture swab test and talk to a physician for further testing and to know how to address your issues.

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)

 

HPV is a term used to identify one of the most widespread STDs today. There are currently around 40 types of this virus that can be contracted through sex, and most of them can be cured by the body’s immune system without causing much harm, but some can cause some major problems, including certain types of cancers and genital warts.

 

The bad news? A person infected by HPV can infect you even if he/she is not showing any symptoms. But the good news is there is a way you can protect yourself from contracting it in the first place. Yes, there is a vaccine for it and it is very effective and safe.

 

Syphilis

 

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is very much treatable in its early stages where it usually appears as sores on your lips, the tip of your tongue, gums or the back of your mouth. They start out as small red patches before becoming open sores. This disease is very contagious and, if left untreated, can cause long-term damages to your heart and brain.

And yes, there are cases where its symptoms go away, but that does not mean that the bacteria is gone. Unless dealt with, syphilis stays in your body and you become a vessel that can infect other people.

Herpes

Herpes is one of the worst STDs you can contract. It is highly contagious and there is currently no cure for this disease that has two strains—simplex virus type 1, which is associated with cold sores and oral lesions, and simplex virus type 2, which is often associated with genital lesions.

Herpes can be contracted through saliva and through contact with open sores. First thing you’ll notice upon infection are blisters in your mouth, which can either be clear, pink, red, yellow or gray. These blisters will pop and cause you to feel discomfort every time to you try to swallow. At some cases, people also report getting fever and feeling fatigue after getting infected.

If for some reason, you suspect yourself of having herpes, be sure to contact a physician to know how you can best manage the disease.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

Yes, you can get HIV during oral sex, especially if you have open wounds in your mouth or brushed rigorously before sex (the latter causes microwounds in the gums, which can give entry to the virus).

There is so much information about HIV available online from credible sources and really the best way to make sure you don’t get infected is by educating yourself. And if you suspect yourself of having HIV, the best thing to do is to go to a facility that provides confidential testing and counseling. They will help you manage the disease.

Whether we like it or not, STDs are a reality. And anyone who is sexually active is prone to infection. Always pay attention to your health and practice safe sex. And never be afraid to consult with a physician if you think you’ve contracted something.