My boyfriend and I have recently started to have oral sex. We have not yet had vaginal sex. Is it possible for me to get pregnant?
– Anita*

No, it's not possible to get pregnant from oral sex alone. Sperm must get into the vagina — and eventually up through the cervix into the uterus. If a couple has vaginal sex while hooking up, the girl could get pregnant. And while getting pregnant isn't a possibility with oral sex, getting a sexually transmitted disease (STD) — such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, warts, or HIV — is.

To avoid pregnancy and STDs, always remember to use proper protection anytime sexual contact occurs, including during oral sex. Whenever sex (whether oral or vaginal) is being performed on a guy, a condom should be used.

Latex condoms have been shown to be very effective in helping to prevent STDs — but they're not 100% safe. Only complete abstinence is. But if you are going to have oral sex, use a latex condom — or, if you or your partner is allergic to latex, a plastic (polyurethane) condom.

If the taste of latex isn't your thing, there are flavored condoms made specifically for oral sex.

For more information, check out these articles:
About Birth Control: What You Need to Know
About Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Birth Control Methods: How Well Do They Work?
Condom

Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: November 2007

Have a question? Email us.

Although we can't reply personally, you may see your question posted to this page in the future. If you're looking for medical advice, a diagnosis, or treatment, consult your doctor or other qualified medical professional. If this is an emergency, contact emergency services in your area.

*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.