Potential causes of tongue ulcers after oral sex
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs):
Oral Herpes (HSV): This is one of the most common causes. The herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which typically causes cold sores, can be transmitted to the mouth during oral sex. HSV-2, usually associated with genital herpes, can also be transmitted to the mouth.
Appearance: Red, swollen blisters on the tongue, lips, or mouth that progress into painful, yellowish ulcers. Sores can also appear on the roof of the mouth and throat.
Syphilis: A syphilis chancre, a firm and often painless ulcer, can form on the lips, tongue, or inside the mouth, typically appearing 1 to 3 weeks after exposure.
Appearance: Starts as a small red patch that grows into a larger, open sore.
Gonorrhea: Oral gonorrhea can cause sores and inflammation in the throat, which may feel like a sore throat.
Appearance: Symptoms are often mild but can include a painful or burning throat, swollen glands, and, rarely, white spots in the mouth.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Low-risk strains of HPV can cause warts in the mouth or throat, though these are typically painless.
Trauma or friction:
Friction: Vigorous orogenital contact can cause trauma or irritation to the tongue and the lingual frenum (the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth). This can lead to a traumatic ulcer.
Appearance: A sore at the site of the injury that should heal on its own if repeated irritation is avoided.
Other causes (not related to oral sex):
Canker sores (Aphthous ulcers): These are common, non-contagious mouth ulcers. While the exact cause is unknown, they are often triggered by stress, minor injuries,
vitamin deficiencies, or certain foods.
Appearance: Small, painful, white or yellow ulcers with a red border. They are not caused by a virus and cannot be spread through oral sex.
When to see a doctor
You should see a doctor or visit a sexual health clinic if you have a mouth sore after oral sex, especially if:
The sore lasts for more than two weeks.
You experience increasing pain or flu-like symptoms.
You have concerns about potential STI exposure.
A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and may order tests to confirm a diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.