Advice

Thinking of having oral sex? Then you should get clued-up on it first. Sink your teeth into all the key info here, including what it feels like, what the risks are and general top tips...

What is it?

Girls: cunnilingus, licking out, muff diving, giving head, going down.
Boys: blowjob, fellatio, sucking off, giving head, going down.

What is it?

Using your mouth or tongue to excite someone's penis or labia (the fleshy lips between a girls' legs, see Vagina factfile). For a man, his partner licks and/or sucks his penis and the surrounding area. Despite the nickname, there's no blowing in a blowjob! For a woman, her partner licks and/or sucks her labia, clitoris and the surrounding area.

What's it like?

Many people like it. Many people don't. It takes some getting used to. And there's no reason why you should do it, unless you want to.

You're up close and personal with each other's genitals - seeing, smelling and tasting them at the same time. It's one of the most intimate things you can do with someone. It's normal to feel vulnerable, especially with someone new.

What are the risks?

You can't get pregnant by having oral sex (unless your partner has sperm in his mouth) but you can catch sexually transmitted diseases, so it's best to use a condom if you're doing it with a boy (you might want to try the flavoured kind!) or a dental dam with a girl (a thin latex device that covers your mouth)... And never have oral sex if you have sores, cuts or ulcers on your mouth or genitals.

What else do I need to know?

Giving and receiving oral sex to or from anyone under 16 is illegal in the UK, even if both of you are underage.

Oral sex isn't everyone's cup of tea, so don't pressurise anyone or feel pressured into it.

If you are thinking of trying oral sex, be gentle and careful. Respect your partner and have a wash beforehand. But remember, no one smells like a bar of soap - so be prepared.