QUESTION
What is the risk of kissing and cunnilingus for spreading anything other than a common cold?

ANSWER
The good news is that there is not likely a high risk of HIV transmission from performing oral sex on a woman. According to UCSF researchers, there is a theoretic potential of transmission from cunnilingus, but no well-documented cases have been reported. The possibility of transmission is higher if the woman is on her period or has another STD.

Speaking of STDs, there is little to no risk of contracting STDs from performing oral sex on a woman. If you're still concerned, you could be ultra safe and use a dental dam or a cut-open latex condom for protection during cunnilingus, and get regular STD checkups every six months. Learn what risks you are taking when engaging in particular sexual activities.

To your health,
Dr. K