Oral sex
Oral sex, also known as fellatio when involving the penis or cunnilingus when involving the vulva/vagina, is sexual activity involving the stimulation of the genitals or anus with using the mouth, lips and/or tongue. It is a common and pleasurable form of sexual intimacy for many individuals and couples.
It is possible to get and pass on STIs through oral sex, although it’s usually lower risk than for vaginal or anal sex without a condom. Using a barrier method, such as a dental dam, can reduce the risk of transmission of infection. Dental dams are thin, latex, or polyurethane sheets that can be placed over the vulva or anus to create a protective barrier.
If you’ve given someone oral sex, you can order a throat swab to test for chlamydia and gonorrhea in your throat as part of your test. These are available free as part of this service.
Other things to consider regarding oral sex:
Consent
As with any sexual activity, it is crucial to obtain clear and enthusiastic consent from all parties involved before engaging in oral sex. Communication and mutual agreement are essential for a positive and consensual sexual experience.
Dental and oral health
Maintaining good oral hygiene is important, as bacteria in the mouth can potentially lead to infections or other health issues. Regular brushing, flossing and dental check-ups can help reduce the risk of oral health problems.
Personal Hygiene
It is important for both the giver and receiver of oral sex to practice good personal hygiene. Washing the genitals and surrounding areas with soap and water before sexual activity can help minimize the presence of bacteria or other potential irritants.
Communication and trust
Open and honest communication with sexual partners about sexual health, history, concerns, and desires is essential for maintaining a safe and healthy sexual experience. Trust and understanding between partners can help ensure the comfort and wellbeing of everyone involved. Sexual preferences and practices vary among individuals. It’s important to respect personal boundaries and engage in activities that are mutually agreed upon and consensual. If you have further specific questions or concerns about oral sex or sexual health, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or sexual health professional.
Anal sex
Anal sex is any sexual activity involving penetration of the anus, typically with a penis, fingers, sex toys, or other objects, for pleasure and sexual stimulation. It is a sexual practice enjoyed by some individuals and couples.
Engaging in anal sex is one of the most common ways of getting and passing on STIs, and carries a higher risk of certain STIs, such as HIV and bacterial infections. Using condoms or other barrier methods, such as latex or polyurethane gloves or finger cots, during anal sex can help reduce the risks of STIs. Condoms provide a barrier that can prevent the exchange of bodily fluids and reduce the risk of transmission.
Regular STI testing is important, particularly for individuals who have multiple sexual partners or engage in unprotected anal sex. Testing can help identify and treat any potential infections, promoting both individual and public health.
If you’ve had anal sex, you can order a rectal swab to test for chlamydia and gonorrhea in your rectum as part of your test. These are available for free as part of this service.
Other things to consider regarding anal sex:
Consent
As with any sexual activity, it is crucial to obtain clear and enthusiastic consent from all parties involved before engaging in anal sex. Communication and mutual agreement are essential for a positive and consensual sexual experience.
Hygiene
Maintaining good personal hygiene is important for anal sex. Washing the anus and surrounding areas with soap and water before sexual activity can help reduce the presence of bacteria and minimize the risk of infection. Additionally, ensuring cleanliness of any objects or sex toys used during anal sex is crucial.
Lubrication
The anus does not naturally produce lubrication like the vagina, so using a water-based or silicone-based lubricant is important to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of tearing or injury during anal penetration. Applying lubricant generously and regularly can enhance comfort and pleasure.
Communication and trust
Open and honest communication with sexual partners about sexual health, history, concerns, and desires is essential for maintaining a safe and healthy sexual experience. Trust and understanding between partners can help ensure the comfort and wellbeing of everyone involved. Sexual preferences and practices vary among individuals and may not be suitable for or desired by everyone. It’s important to respect personal boundaries and engage in activities that are mutually agreed upon and consensual. If you have further specific questions or concerns about anal sex or sexual health, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or sexual health professional.
Sex with sex workers
Engaging in sexual activities with sex workers is the consensual exchange of money or goods for sexual services. Sex work encompasses various forms of adult consensual sexual labor. You should be aware of laws regarding sex work in Ohio, which prohibit various activities, including: engaging in sexual acts for payment or services, seeking or engaging in sexual acts with a prostitute for money.
Whilst anyone can have and pass on STIs, and it is a good idea to get tested after having sex with any new partner whose sexual history you don’t know, sex workers are generally at higher risk of being exposed to STIs. Therefore, if you are a sex worker, or engage in sexual activity with a sex worker, you should consider the following:
Contraception
It is crucial to prioritize your sexual health, as well as your partners. Using condoms or other barrier methods can significantly reduce the risk of STI transmission. It is recommended to discuss condom use with the sex worker and ensure that they have access to and are comfortable using barrier methods.
STI testing
Regular STI testing is essential for both clients and sex workers.
Other things to consider regarding sex with sex workers:
Consent and negotiation
Consent and communication are vital when engaging in sexual activities with sex workers. It is important to establish clear boundaries, discuss services offered, and negotiate mutually agreed-upon terms before engaging in any sexual acts. Respect the autonomy and choices of sex workers, and never engage in any activities without their consent.
Communication and respect
Open and respectful communication is key when interacting with sex workers. Treat them with dignity, respect their boundaries, and be mindful of any requests or limitations they may have.
Emotional wellbeing
Acknowledge the emotional well-being of both you and the sex worker. It is crucial to recognize that sex work involves a complex interplay of emotions and power dynamics. Be respectful, understanding, and empathetic towards the experiences of sex workers, and ensure that your interactions are consensual, respectful, and free from exploitation.
Frequent sex with different partners
Anyone can get an STI but having multiple partners can put you at higher risk and can mean that STIs spread more quickly. Regular testing with our STI test kits is advised for you and your partners.
Using condoms every time will greatly reduce your risk of getting or passing on an STI.
If you or a partner get any symptoms, or a partner says they’ve tested positive for an STI, then order one of our tests or get checked out by your health care provider as soon as you can.