There was a time when oral intercourse was not a popular act amongst people in the world. In fact, most people hid to indulge in it to avoid mockery from friends. However, like everything else, people’s stance on the subject has shifted gradually from ‘terrible’ and indifferent to ‘super cool’.
According to studies, more than half the population of adults between 25 and 44 have indulged in oral intercourse at some point.
The act isn’t entirely bad on its own, but depending on the health status of your partner, you may end up exposing yourself to the following diseases.
THROAT CANCER
Throat cancer cannot immediately be suffered by engaging in oral sex, but you may be exposed to the Human Papilloma Virus, which is known to cause throat cancer over time. According to a report by the American Cancer Society, there have been traces of the virus in advanced throat cancer patients.
THE HUMAN PAPILLOMA VIRUS (HPV)
The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) causes different types of warts on various parts of the body, including the genitals, hands, face, etc.
Over a hundred types of HPV strains have been identified, out of which, about 40 cause genital warts.
Certain strains of HPV can lead to cervical and anal cancers as well.
SYPHILIS
Syphilis is rarely spread via oral intercourse, however, it cannot be 100% ruled out. There are patients with very active lesions. Getting involved with such people can expose one to the condition.
HERPES
There are two types of Herpes; Herpes Simplex Type 1 and 2. Type 1 causes mainly oral infections, while Type 2 causes Genital infections. However, there may be cross infection.
Herpes causes painful lesions and inflamed vesicles in the genitals, mouth, hands, and fingers, that resemble cold sores.
HEPATITIS
Hepatitis Viruses are a group of viruses that primarily affect the Liver. They include Hepatits A, B, C and others but the only sexually transmitted one among them is Hepatitis B.
It has been described to be 10 times more infectious than HIV infection. It is present in most body secretions including saliva which makes it transmissible via oral intercourse.
CHLAMYDIA
This condition is also referred to as the ‘silent disease’. This is because it has mild or no major symptoms.
However, if left untreated, Chlamydia can cause irreversible damages to the female reproductive system, causing infertility.
GONORRHOEA
Gonorrhea is caused by a bacterium called Neisseria gonorrhea, and it affects both males and females.
Gonorrhoea doesn’t just infect the genitals; it also targets other body parts like the eyes, throat, joints, etc.
Now that you’re aware of oral intercourse, be sure to stay safe, and faithful to your partner.