Is it possible to get a sore throat from oral sex?

Dear Sick, 

That sounds like a real pain in the throat! While it’s possible it could be related to symptoms of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), there are many causes of sore throats. The most common cause of a sore throat is the common cold, so you may have picked up that virus from him. However, while you mention your partner doesn’t have any STIs, it’s important to note that many conditions don’t always show symptoms. The only way to know for sure is to get tested periodically. Read on to soothe your concerns.   

Can you get an STI from oral sex? 

There’s a risk of STIs with most forms of sexual activity, and oral is no (s)exception. Some of the most common oral STIs are chlamydia and gonorrhea, both of which can cause symptoms including a sore throat. It’s possible to have and pass on an STI without feeling any symptoms at all, so consider getting tested if you’re feeling nervous about your health after any sexual encounter. 

Are there other sicknesses that could cause a sore throat? 

Most sore throats come from viral infections (such as a cold), not oral sex. The common cold typically spreads through droplets from coughing or sneezing and may be accompanied by a runny nose or a fever. A cold will usually clear up without medical attention. If your symptoms aren’t improving after more than ten days, it might be worth talking with a health care provider. A provider may be able to distinguish whether your symptoms are coming from other common sicknesses (like the flu, strep throat, or COVID-19) or if the sore throat is from another cause.  

Is there anything else that could be causing your sore throat? 

There are also some things that can cause a sore throat that have nothing to do with sicknesses or STIs.  

• Have you ever yelled too loudly at a concert and felt a bit hoarse the next day? If you overuse or strain your voice, you may find yourself with a sore throat that lasts a short while and goes away on its own.   
• Do you smoke, have allergies, or live in a heavily polluted area? These environmental pollutants can irritate your throat and lungs causing you to feel a little hoarse.  
• When you breathe, are you doing so through your nose or your mouth? Mouth breathing whether while you’re awake or asleep can cause your throat to dry out and feel sore.  

How can you prevent STIs and other illnesses in the future? 

Using a barrier method like a condom or dental dam may help to reduce your chances of contracting an STI when having oral sex with a partner. Health care professionals also typically recommend that sexually active people get screened for STIs regularly, whether or not they have a history of infection. Talking to your partner about getting tested together may help alleviate some of the worry you’re feeling.  

Beyond STIs, you can protect yourself from other diseases that might cause a sore throat by washing your hands; covering your mouth and nose, especially during flu season; staying hydrated; and sleeping well. Additionally, cutting down on smoking, using a throat lozenge, and wearing a mask can all help to keep your throat safer. Plus, if you’re experiencing symptoms of a viral infection, staying home can limit the spread of the disease and help you recover as fast as possible. 

Here’s hoping you can avoid any oral ailments in the future!