Sexual expression won’t cause STDs

Dear Dr. Gott: Can two married people who have no other sexual partners develop venereal disease(s) by participating in oral sex? Please do not reply, “We know diseases can be transmitted this way.” That is a given. The question is do they originate from this behavior? If this is not newsworthy for a newspaper, where can I write for an answer?

Dear Reader: Here.

If two people participate in monogamous sexual activity and neither has a sexually transmitted disease, they are perfectly safe in performing and receiving oral sex. STDs are not a consequence of sexual expression. They are, like many diseases, spread from a contaminated person to a person who is disease-free.

Although some people with rather strict moral standards argue against oral sex, the consensus of doctors and experts is that it is yet another way to express intimacy in a loving relationship. Can herpes and other STDs be spread in this manner? Without question. But in the situation you present, that risk seems improbable. In short, oral sex is a safe method of sexual expression when both partners do not carry an STD.

I should note that my endorsement of oral sex does not extend to people, especially teenagers, who engage in “hooking up.” Teens may have no regard for health considerations, the end result being emotional and physical harm for all participants. STDs are a huge problem, and self-image is decimated. Oral sex is also the preferred route of many sexual predators, so the practice is not without its downside. But, between committed partners, I feel secure in endorsing oral sex as yet another expression of loving intimacy.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Contraception.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

Dear Dr. Gott: This is for the person with acrylic nails who gets zapped by static when shopping or touching something. There is a formula in a can called Static Guard. It’s very useful in situations like this. Spray the bottom of your shoes and your hands before touching a grocery cart, or directly on the item.

Dear Reader: This sounds like a simpler solution than many I have received. Thanks for writing.