Originally published June 16, 2013
Let me begin by saying that yes, there is a small chance of the HPV virus (carried by 70% of the population – that’s women and men) can cause oral and throat cancers in those who perform oral sex on women who have HPV. And no, there doesn’t have to be a full outbreak (i.e. actual warts) present for this to occur.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 90% of people will clear the virus in the first year. Leaving about 10% (not all of these cases will develop cancer) with the chronic disease that may be completely asymptomatic . As if some men needed more of a reason to not go down on their female sex partners. That may sound harsh and I don’t deny that there has been a rise in HPV oral and throat cancers over the past twenty years. Some doctors have even referred to it as an epidemic among men. But I have found the reporting on this to be very one sided. Cunnilingus is getting a bad rap.
Should anyone who performs oral sex be safe? Yes, just as safe as they are with any other sexual behavior. Which, means using a barrier method – also known as a dental dam or if need be some plastic wrap. Does performing oral sex guarantee that you will get cancer? No, it is still considered a fairly low risk sexual activity.