Dear im_special,

"Swallow or spit" usually refers to whether a person swallows or spits out a man's ejaculate (semen) after performing oral sex on him. Some people swallow the ejaculate, while others prefer to spit it out or to avoid taking it into their mouth completely.

Unprotected oral sex is lower-risk for sexually transmitted infections than unprotected vaginal or anal sex, but it is still a risk for both people giving and receiving it. For the person who is giving oral sex, avoiding contact with ejaculate is safer than taking it into the mouth and swallowing it. Using a barrier during oral sex can further decrease the risk of infection. For safer oral sex, use a condom to cover the penis, or a Glyde dam to cover the vulva or anus.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.