How are infections passed on through oral sex?
• Skin to skin Some STIs cause blisters and sores on the mouth or genitals (e.g. herpes, syphilis). If these touch a partners mouth, genitals or anus, the infection may be passed on. Sometimes the infection can be passed on through skin contact without there being any symptoms. • Body fluids When body fluids that carry the virus or bacteria (semen, pre-cum, blood or vaginal secretions) come into contact with • sores, cuts, ulcers or inflamed cells on the lips, mouth, anus or genitals • the membrane of the eye • the cells of the throat The virus can pass on and live in the cells or enter the blood stream and cause an infection. • Ingestion Hepatitis A can be passed on through infected faeces (poo), even if the anus looks clean. Protect yourself by using a condom or dental dam when giving or receiving oral sex.
