People have likely been having oral sex for about as long as humans have existed, but its modern popularity arose in the 1970s.
The first traces of historical evidence we have about oral sex come from ancient Egypt. Egyptians were such fans of fellatio that they documented it in their art.
Some records on Cleopatra claimed she was a master of oral sex, holding the record in her court for giving the most blow jobs in one night. This earned her the nickname “Meriochane”, which means “she who parts for a thousand men”.
Egyptians weren’t the only ones documenting this sometimes sacred act – Japanese people in the 16th through 18th centuries created pornographic prints called Shunga, depicting the art of oral sex.
Over time, many cultures became more modest about sex, until the sexual revolution of the 1960s and 70s.
The anatomically incorrect film, Deep Throat, brought porn into the limelight and shed a new light on oral sex. The film is based on a doctor informing a woman that her clitoris is in her throat (hence why she loved giving blow jobs so much).
Although it was biologically misinformative, its popularity showed viewers that oral sex could be fun, and started conversations about the clitoris as a source of female pleasure – although it’s certainly not in your throat.
A Biological Drive
Oral sex can feel amazing to receive, and for many people, it’s also satisfying to give. But usually, this pleasure comes from the satisfaction of seeing your partner satisfied.
There is likely some sort of biological drive outside of pleasure to want to give oral sex. Some studies suggest that swallowing semen may be good for you. Besides containing protein and minerals, it may also help boost your mood and prevent pregnancy complications.
Another evolutionary theory that there’s very little research on is that giving women oral sex may help them get pregnant. This may be thanks to contractions in the uterus during an orgasm helping move sperm towards an egg that’s waiting to be fertilized.
Practicing Safer Sex
Oral sex is a form of sex, and can potentially expose you and your partner to sexually transmitted infections.
There is a wide range of STIs that can be transmitted through oral sex. Herpes (HSV 1 and 2) is the most popular, but you can also contract chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HPV, HIV, and Trichomoniasis. Many of these STIs can be symptomless, but can still lead to long-term health issues.
Because many people, especially those who are heterosexual, don’t think of oral sex as “real sex”, it’s common for people to forget to practice safe sex.
How do you protect yourself and your partner when giving or receiving oral sex? Remember these tips:
- Get tested after sleeping with a new partner.
- Ask your provider to test you for herpes, which isn’t routinely tested but can be spread through oral sex.
- Use barrier methods like non-lubricated condoms (for penises) and dental dams (for vulvas and anuses).
- Avoid receiving oral sex if your partner has a cold sore or wound on their mouth, and vice versa if they have a sore on their genitals.
- You may have a greater chance of contracting an STI in your mouth if you have oral health issues like gum disease, tooth decay, oral cancer, or bleeding gums.
Looking for a few more oral sex pointers? Check out these tips and our guide on preparing for oral sex. If you want to spice up your oral sex game, you’ll love the ORA 3 Oral Sex Stimulator.
While we may not be sure who, when, and where oral sex was invented, we do know it’s a favorite pastime of many people. So here’s to more of it.
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