What is HIV?
According to HIV.gov, HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells). Over time, HIV weakens the immune system, leaving the body vulnerable to various infections and diseases. HIV is transmitted through the exchange of certain bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk, or through the sharing of injecting drug equipment. If left untreated, HIV causes the disease AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), don’t worry, Effective HIV drug treatment (called antiretroviral therapy or ART) is now available.
Can You Get HIV From Oral Sex?
Oral sex, which involves the stimulation of the genitals using the mouth, is often considered a lower-risk sexual activity for HIV transmission compared to other forms of sexual contact. However, although the risk is relatively low, it is still possible to HIV from oral sex. There have been research reports that provide evidence of HIV through oral sex.
One research report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) in 2010 concluded that there is a potential risk of HIV and oral sex. The study analyzed data from multiple studies and found that the risk of HIV transmission through oral sex was higher when the person performing oral sex had cuts or sores in the mouth, or when the person receiving oral sex had a high viral load (the amount of HIV in their blood). Another study published in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections in 2018 also reported cases of HIV oral sex, particularly when there was ejaculation in the mouth or when the person performing oral sex had bleeding gums or mouth sores.
Furthermore, a study published in the journal AIDS in 2016 revealed that the risk of HIV transmission through oral sex was higher in the presence of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as syphilis or gonorrhea, which can cause sores or inflammation in the mouth or genitals, increasing the risk of HIV transmission.
Factors that Affect the Risk of HIV Through Oral Sex
Several factors can affect the risk of oral sex HIV. These include:
- Presence of cuts or sores in the mouth: If the person performing oral sex has cuts, sores, or bleeding gums in the mouth, it can provide an entry point for HIV to enter the bloodstream.
- Viral load of the person with HIV: Higher viral load in the blood of a person with HIV increases the risk of transmission during oral sex.
- Presence of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs): STIs such as syphilis or gonorrhea can cause sores or inflammation in the mouth or genitals, increasing the risk of HIV transmission during oral sex.
- Ejaculation in the mouth: If ejaculation occurs in the mouth during oral sex, it can increase the risk of HIV transmission, as the virus may be present in semen.
Prevention and Protection Against HIV Transmission Through Oral Sex
Although the risk of HIV oral sex is relatively low, it is still important to take precautions to protect oneself and reduce the risk of infection. Here are some preventive measures:
- Use condoms: Using condoms during oral sex can provide a barrier that can reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
- Dental health: Maintaining good dental hygiene, such as regular brushing and flossing, can reduce the risk of cuts or sores in the mouth, which can provide entry points for HIV.
- Avoid oral sex if you have cuts, sores, or bleeding gums: If you have cuts, sores, or bleeding gums in your mouth, it's best to avoid oral sex, as it can increase the risk of HIV transmission.
- Get tested for STIs: Regular testing for STIs, such as syphilis and gonorrhea, can help detect any infections that may increase the risk of HIV transmission during oral sex. If you have an STI, seek prompt treatment to reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
- Communication with partners: Having open and honest communication with sexual partners about their HIV status, and discussing safe sex practices, including condom use during oral sex, can help reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
