When it comes to sex, there are a lot of fun, exciting, and intimate things we talk about—but some topics are often overlooked. One of these is the potential link between oral sex and throat cancer. While oral sex is a common and pleasurable part of many sexual relationships, it’s important to recognize that it can pose health risks, especially when it comes to certain types of cancer.

Here’s everything you need to know about the connection between oral sex and throat cancer:

What’s the Link Between Oral Sex and Throat Cancer?

The main culprit behind the potential risk of throat cancer is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a group of over 100 viruses, some of which are sexually transmitted. While many types of HPV are harmless, HPV type 16 is known to be linked to throat cancer, specifically cancers of the oropharynx (the part of the throat at the back of the mouth, including the base of the tongue and tonsils).

HPV is primarily spread through oral sex, and research has shown that individuals who perform or receive oral sex with multiple partners or with someone who has an HPV infection are at a higher risk of developing throat cancer later in life. The cancer-causing strain of HPV can be passed through direct contact with an infected partner’s genital or oral areas.

Who Is at Risk?

While anyone who engages in oral sex can potentially contract HPV, the risk is higher for:

• People who have multiple oral sex partners.
• Individuals who had their first sexual encounter at a younger age.
• People with weakened immune systems (such as those with HIV).
• Men are statistically more likely than women to develop HPV-related throat cancer.

HPV-related throat cancers have been steadily rising over the last few decades, and it’s now estimated that more cases of throat cancer are caused by HPV than by smoking and drinking alcohol combined.

Symptoms of HPV-Related Throat Cancer

The scariest part of HPV-related throat cancer is that it often doesn’t show symptoms in the early stages. As the cancer develops, you might notice:

• A persistent sore throat.
• Pain or difficulty swallowing.
• A lump in your neck.
• Ear pain (on one side).
• Hoarseness or changes in your voice.
• Weight loss.

If any of these symptoms last for more than two weeks, it’s important to see a doctor for an evaluation.

How to Reduce the Risk of HPV and Throat Cancer

Here’s the good news: there are several preventative measures you can take to protect yourself and reduce the risk of HPV-related throat cancer.

1. Get Vaccinated: The HPV vaccine is one of the most effective ways to protect against the high-risk strains of the virus, including HPV-16. Both men and women should consider getting the vaccine, which is recommended for young people (typically before they start engaging in sexual activity), but can be given to adults up to age 45.

2. Practice Safe Sex: Using condoms or dental dams during oral sex can reduce the risk of HPV transmission. While these methods don’t offer 100% protection (as HPV can be spread through skin-to-skin contact), they still offer a significant barrier to infection.

3. Limit the Number of Sexual Partners: The more sexual partners you have, the higher your risk of contracting HPV. Reducing the number of sexual partners you have can lower your chances of being exposed to HPV.

4. Avoid Smoking and Excessive Drinking: Smoking and drinking alcohol can further increase the risk of throat cancer, especially in combination with HPV. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding these habits can help reduce your overall cancer risk.

5. Regular Health Screenings: If you’re concerned about your risk for throat cancer, see a healthcare professional for regular check-ups and screenings. Early detection increases the chances of successful treatment.

Should You Be Worried?

It’s natural to be concerned when you hear about a health risk associated with something as intimate as oral sex. However, it’s important to remember that HPV infections are incredibly common, and most people with HPV will never develop cancer. In fact, most HPV infections go away on their own within a couple of years without causing any harm.

Being informed about the risks, knowing how to reduce them, and taking preventive measures, like vaccination and practicing safe sex, can make a huge difference in keeping your sexual health in check.

Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your health—so don’t hesitate to take the necessary steps to protect yourself!