Yes. Oral sex carries a significant risk for spreading STIs, if either partner has one. Herpes, HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea and other diseases can all spread through unprotected oral sex with an infected partner. Just like with sexual intercourse, using latex condoms reduces the risk of infection.

A man can wear a flavored, latex condom that protects against disease and tastes good. A woman can use a dental dam, a piece of latex that fits over the genital area, to protect herself and her partner against infections. This is a good idea, since it’s difficult to know for sure whether you or your partner has an infection. People can often carry a virus and not know it because they have no symptoms. Better safe than sorry.