Dear Rozzwel,

Although unprotected oral sex is not as risky as vaginal and anal intercourse are for STIs, unprotected oral sex can put both partners at risk for a number of infections, whether they are giving or receiving oral sex. These STIs include chancroid, cytomegalovirus, gonorrhea, hepatitis A & B, herpes, human papilloma virus (HPV), syphilis, and, rarely, HIV and chlamydia.

For safer oral sex, use a condom to cover the penis, or a Glyde dam, cut-open condom, or plastic wrap to cover the vulva or anus.