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Do you enjoy oral sex? Then this article is for you. Many men see blowjobs as a safe alternative to anal sex—but how safe is it really? When it comes to safer oral sex, it’s not just about HIV, but also other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Here you can find out how to protect yourself, what to consider when swallowing or spitting, and what the actual risks are.
HIV transmission during oral sex – how high is the risk really?
First, the good news: if you pleasure your partner’s penis during oral sex, i.e., satisfy him orally, HIV transmission through your saliva is practically impossible. Saliva contains only tiny amounts of HI viruses and enzymes that inhibit the virus. The situation is different if your partner orgasms in your mouth and his semen comes into contact with injured oral mucosa.
The risk also increases if you have bleeding gums, fresh wounds in your mouth, have recently had dental treatment, or engage in very intense oral sex that causes minor injuries. If your partner has only recently been infected or is deliberately not undergoing HIV treatment, their viral load may be very high, which increases the risk of transmission. With successful HIV treatment and an undetectable viral load, however, HIV is not transmissible, even during oral sex.
Scientific studies show that the risk for the person giving the blowjob is extremely low compared to anal sex. While unprotected anal sex can have a risk of over one percent per act, depending on the role, the risk is significantly lower for blowjobs. Nevertheless, you should never forget that the risk is never zero. At an international AIDS conference in the summer of 1996, Gay Men’s Health Crisis held a forum on this topic. There, three scientists explained that although some people had been infected through oral sex, such cases were apparently rare. At that time, there were conflicting statements regarding the risk of contracting HIV through oral sex. Other STIs were not yet a factor at that time. Today, the situation is very different.
First, the good news: HIV transmission through saliva is virtually impossible during oral sex. Saliva contains only tiny amounts of the virus and enzymes that inhibit HIV. However, the risk increases if semen enters the mouth and comes into contact with damaged mucous membranes—for example, bleeding gums, small wounds, or after dental treatment.
If your partner has a high viral load, for example because they are not undergoing treatment, the risk increases. With successful HIV treatment and an undetectable viral load, however, HIV is not transmissible – even during oral sex. Studies show that the risk during a blowjob is extremely low, but never zero. Safer oral sex therefore means being aware of the residual risk and dealing with it consciously.
Other STIs during oral sex: Why safer oral sex is important
Many people forget that safer oral sex is not just about HIV. Other pathogens are much more easily transmitted during oral sex:
- Gonorrhea: enters the throat via semen or pre-ejaculate. Often asymptomatic, but contagious.
- Chlamydia: also possible in the throat, usually unnoticed.
- Syphilis: can be transmitted through skin contact – a small, painless ulcer is enough.
- Herpes (HSV-1 & HSV-2): contagious even without visible blisters.
- HPV (human papillomavirus): can cause genital warts or mouth and throat cancer; vaccination protects against it.
- Hepatitis B: transmitted via blood and semen, especially if the mucous membrane is damaged.
Precisely because many of these infections are asymptomatic, regular testing and protection during oral sex are crucial.
Safer oral sex: how to protect yourself
The most important rule: condoms protect!
They are the most effective protection during blowjobs – preferably flavored or latex-free (polyurethane) if you are sensitive. For anilingus, you can use so-called dental dams (licking cloths) to avoid direct mucous membrane contact.
Pay attention to your oral health:
- Do not engage in oral sex if you have open wounds, mouth ulcers, or bleeding gums.
- Wait at least 24 hours after dental treatment.
- Practice good oral hygiene, but do not brush your teeth or use dental floss immediately before sex—this can cause micro-injuries.
And: Communication is safer sex. Talk openly with your partner about health, testing, and possible risks.
Swallowing or spitting – which is safer?
When it comes to “swallowing or spitting,” HIV is destroyed in the stomach by stomach acid. The risk arises beforehand – through contact of semen with the mucous membranes of the mouth or throat. If these are healthy, the risk is low, but not zero.
For other STIs (gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, hepatitis B), swallowing itself plays hardly any role – infection can occur beforehand.
If you want extra protection, spit out the semen immediately and rinse with water or a mild, alcohol-free mouthwash. Alcohol-based mouthwashes irritate the mucous membrane – it is best to avoid them.
Myths about safer oral sex
- “Oral sex is completely safe.” – False. The risk is low, but it exists.
- “Saliva kills all pathogens.” – No. HIV yes, but not HPV or herpes.
- “No symptoms = no infection.” – False. Many infections are asymptomatic but highly contagious.
Safer oral sex applies to all sexually active people – regardless of orientation or identity.
Conclusion: Enjoy yourself safely and with pleasure
Safer oral sex does not mean giving up pleasure, but taking responsibility.
With condoms, regular testing, and honest communication, you can protect yourself and your partners—and enjoy oral sex with peace of mind. Whether you swallow or spit is your decision. The main thing is that you know how to protect yourself and what feels good for you.