Filthy fun?
Question
Can licking your girlfriend's bumhole be harmful?
Answer
It's possible for some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) to be passed from one person to another through oral sex, which includes licking around the anus and genital area. In addition to this, the anus is an area of the body that harbours bacteria, which can lead to transferring bowel bacteria such as E. coli.
To reduce the risk of infection, you can use a dental dam (a sheet of latex available from sex shops, dental supply companies and some pharmacies) or a condom (cut open from end to tip and placed over the anus) to act as a barrier during contact between the mouth and the anus.
If you're concerned about STIs, you can go for a check-up at your local genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic. GUM clinics offer free, confidential screening for STIs.
You can get further advice about sexual health and contraception from your local doctor (GP) or Brook Centre. Advice and contraception will be offered in confidence and for free. You can also get advice as well as details of your nearest Brook Centre by calling the free helpline on 0800 0185 023.
Updated: 23/10/2006
Question answered by Brook
