Can you get HPV from oral sex?

Published: March 29, 2019
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I have HPV and have a vagina, does this mean my partner could risk getting it just by oral sex with me?
Signed: Can you get HPV from oral sex?

Dear Can you get HPV from oral sex?,

There are many different types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV). A person can get HPV by having vaginal, anal or oral sex and deep kissing with someone who is infected with the virus. The disease can also be transmitted during close skin-to-skin touching during sex.

HPV can be spread even when an infected person has no visible signs or symptoms. In most cases, HPV goes away on its own and does not cause any health problems. But when HPV does not go away, it can cause health problems like genital warts and cancers. Anyone who is sexually active can get HPV and not develop symptoms for years after having sex with someone who was infected.

You mention that you already know you have HPV. Remember, practicing safe sex is very important. Use a condom every time you have penile-vaginal, penile-anal, or penile-oral sex. The use of a dental dam (a thin piece of latex) can help prevent the spread of the virus during oral-vaginal sex.

FX would like to remind you that it is very important that sex partners discuss their sexual health and risk for all STIs, with each other.

HPV and Oral Sex

Mouth and Throat Cancer

Using a Condom

Dental Dam

Signed: TeenHealthFX

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