Sucking a man's cock (penis) without a condom is low risk for getting HIV (the virus that can lead to AIDS). However, low risk does not mean no risk.

To reduce the risk you can:

• avoid flossing or brushing your teeth for at least 30 minutes before, and right after sucking so that there are no open cuts in the mouth; (If you smoke you may wish to wait two hours - not everyone's mouth heals at the same rate and several factors can affect how fast your mouth heals after a cut. Scientists have found a smoker's mouth takes longer to heal.)
• stop sucking before he ejaculates (cums);
• suck and lick only the shaft and balls, avoiding the head of his cock.

If you want to eliminate the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), use a latex condom.

The person who is being sucked is at no real risk of HIV infection, but could get other STIs.

If you suck without a condom, get your throat swabbed during your regular STI check-up every six months.

Itching, burning, or discharge from the penis, anus (ass hole) or vagina are the most common symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases (STIs).

You can get some STIs, such as gonorrhea, in your throat if you perform oral sex on someone without using a latex barrier. If you have an STI in your throat you may or may not have any symptoms.

Rashes or bumps anywhere on the body, that may or may not itch or be painful, can also be symptoms of an STI.

It is important to realize that you can have an STI without knowing it. If you are sexually active, using condoms will reduce but not eliminate the risk of infection.

For sexually active individuals, an STI check-up every three to six months is the only sure way to know if you have an STI. In Toronto, you can contact ACT for information on a clinic where you can talk openly about all your sexual practices. A blood test alone will not detect all STIs; discuss your sexual practices with the nurse or doctor to ensure that you receive a thorough check-up.