Can I get an STD from a blow job?

What is the likelihood of me getting an STD when someone gives me a blow job?

Receiving oral sex is considerably safer than unprotected vaginal or anal sex because the pathogens that cause STIs are not usually concentrated in saliva. The herpes virus which typically produces cold sores is different from the herpes virus that typically causes genital herpes, but it is possible for the oral herpes virus to live on the genitals (and vice versa), so this is probably the biggest potential concern. If you know your partner has oral herpes, you can minimize your risk of contracting it by avoiding oral sex when they have any active sores and/or using a condom. Chlamydia, HPV (warts), gonorrhea, and syphilis can all be transmitted through saliva, but it is unusual. Men can also get urethral infections from the normal bacteria in the mouth, though that’s not really an STI.

The person giving the blow job is at higher risk for contracting an STI, so it’s important for you to get yourself tested regularly if you’ve been sexually active with other partners.

If you’re unsure of your partner’s history, it’s always a good idea to use a condom. There are lots of flavored condoms and lubricants on the market to make the experience more pleasant for your partner.

Recommendations: A guide to STDs (why you want condoms during a blow job), condoms, and a guide to keeping safer sex hot (even while you’re using those condoms).