[Question #12831] Oral Risks

4 months ago

I am a 45 y/o male. Had a brief encounter with another white male in his late 50’s, who I met online. He said he was married and needed to be discreet as well.

We briefly performed uncovered oral on each other. Both ways I cut it off, after less than a minute. I was uncomfortable receiving and giving, and stopped the entire encounter. I know STI’s in his age group are not common.

I know main risk here is gonorrhea. In 2023, in the state this took place, there were 213 cases of gonorrhea in the 55+ age demographic. And 154 in the 50-54 demographic. With only 28% of those cases being white men. Per their DOH STI Surveillance report. And on any given day the number of active infections would be lower. And the odds of an active oral infection would be even lower.

I know I probably already answered my own question. But the best course of action here would be to just move on. In your professional opinion, is testing needed?

Also, Do I need be concerned with any other infections?

Edward W. Hook M.D.

4 months ago

Welcome to the Forum. thanks for your questions and for your careful research on your risks. You don't quite say it but your risk for infection is very very low. I presume you are asymptomatic. If you had acquired gonorrhea you would probably become symptomatic in over 90% of infected men within 3-5 days of exposure. The risk for any other STI is lower still. In your circumstance, I'd probably move forward without concern. EWH---

4 months ago

Thank you for your response.

I know oral gonorrhea is generally asymptomatic. I know I’m being overly worried here. But should that be of any significant concern?

Edward W. Hook M.D.

4 months ago

Despite the fact that oral gonorrhea is mostly asymptomatic, I would not worry. Remember as well, transmission of oral infection to others is a biologically inefficient process and there are few complications to oral infections. I would not be worried. EWH---