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Can I get
HIV from performing oral sex?
Yes, it is possible for
you to become infected with HIV through performing oral sex.
There have been a few cases of HIV transmission from performing
oral sex on a person infected with HIV. While no one knows exactly
what the degree of risk is, evidence suggests that the risk is
less than that of unprotected anal or vaginal sex.
Blood, semen, pre-seminal
fluid, and vaginal fluid all may contain the virus. Cells in
the mucous lining of the mouth may carry HIV into the lymph nodes
or the bloodstream. The risk increases
- if you have cuts or sores
around or in your mouth or throat;
- if your partner ejaculates
in your mouth; or
- if your partner has another
sexually transmitted disease (STD).
If you choose to have oral
sex, and your partner is male,
- use a latex condom on the
penis; or
- if you or your partner
is allergic to latex, plastic (polyurethane) condoms can be used.
Research has shown the effectiveness
of latex condoms used on the penis to prevent the transmission
of HIV. Condoms are not risk-free, but they greatly reduce your
risk of becoming HIV-infected if your partner has the virus.
If you choose to have oral
sex, and your partner is female,
- use a latex barrier (such
as a dental dam or a cut-open condom that makes a square) between
your mouth and the vagina. Plastic food wrap also can be used
as a barrier.
The barrier reduces the
risk of blood or vaginal fluids entering your mouth. For more
information about latex condoms, female condoms, and plastic
(polyurethane) condoms, see "Facts about Condoms and Their Use in Preventing HIV
Infection."
If you have additional questions
or are concerned about personal behaviors that may have put you
at risk, call the CDC National AIDS Hotline at 1-800-342-2437
(English), 1-800-344-7432 (Español), or 1-800-243-7889
(TTY). |
