Can you get an STI from oral sex?

Yes, many STIs including herpes, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HPV can be transmitted through oral sex. Using dental dams or condoms during oral sex can reduce the risk.

Bacterial STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are curable with antibiotics. Viral STIs like herpes and HIV cannot be cured but can be effectively managed with medication.

How often should you get tested for STIs?

Sexually active individuals should get tested at least annually. Those with multiple partners, new partners, or other risk factors should be tested more frequently, typically every three to six months.

InfectiousICD-10: A64Approximately 20 million new STI cases occur each year in the US

Sexually Transmitted Infections

Also known as: STIs, STDs, Sexually transmitted diseases, Venereal diseases

Sexually transmitted infections are infections spread primarily through sexual contact including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, herpes, and HPV. Many STIs are curable with antibiotics, while others can be managed with antiviral medications, and prevention through safe sex practices is essential.

Symptoms

Unusual genital discharge

Painful or burning urination

Genital sores, blisters, or warts

Itching or irritation in the genital area

Pain during sexual intercourse

Rash on the body, palms, or soles

Swollen lymph nodes in the groin

Many STIs may have no symptoms at all

Causes

Bacterial infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis
Viral infections such as HIV, herpes, HPV, and hepatitis B
Parasitic infections such as trichomoniasis and pubic lice
Transmission through unprotected sexual contact

Risk Factors

Unprotected sexual intercourse
Multiple sexual partners
History of previous STIs
Young age between 15 and 24 years
Substance use impairing judgment
Inconsistent condom use

Diagnosis

Urine tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea
Blood tests for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis
Swab tests of genital sores or discharge
Pap smear and HPV testing
Physical examination of symptoms

Treatment

Antibiotics for bacterial STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis
Antiviral medications to manage herpes and HIV
Antiparasitic medications for trichomoniasis
HPV vaccine for prevention of HPV-related infections
Partner notification and treatment to prevent reinfection

Prevention

Consistent and correct use of condoms
Regular STI screening for sexually active individuals
HPV and hepatitis B vaccination
Limiting the number of sexual partners
Open communication with partners about sexual health

When to See a Doctor

Any unusual genital symptoms such as sores, discharge, or pain
After unprotected sex with a new or untested partner
If a sexual partner has been diagnosed with an STI
For routine STI screening as part of preventive care

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Syphilis

Infectious

Trichomoniasis

Infectious

HIV/AIDS

Infectious

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