If you are a man, chances are you really don’t know what you’re doing. If you are a woman, chances are you really don’t do it enough.

I am talking about two of the most eloquent words in the sexual dictionary: fellatio and cunnilingus. Oral sex is an often talked about issue,but how much importance does it really have?

Oral sex is an all too common joke in the comedic world. Men complain that women should do it more, especially after marriage. Women complain that too many men just don’t know how to do it right.

In an article titled ‘Ultimate Oral Sex” on AskMen.com, author The Player stated that “Oral sex is just as important as intercourse.”

Senior business major Laura Delmendo disagrees.

“When it comes down to it, there is really only one way to suck and lick,” she said.

I have to agree, but the same argument could be made about sexual intercourse itself. Sure there are many different positions, but when it comes down to it, there is only one way to penetrate a woman.

However, oral sex is a very important part of a relationship. It creates variety, like the different sexual positions. It also can be a bit of a power trip. Think about it this way: You have the most sensitive part of the human body near teeth, like the canine, which is used to rip meat apart.

One complaint that people have is taste. Author and sex expert Isabella Snow recommends drinking cranberry and pineapple juice beforehand to sweeten things up.

Oral sex also serves as a loophole for those who want to keep their V-Card or just don’t want to refrain from having sex at the time being.

“Nearly one in four (teenagers) who have not had sexual intercourse report they have had oral sex (24 percent of boys and 22 percent of girls),” according to The National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, a nonprofit organization largely supported by private donations.

Although there is no risk of impregnation through oral sex, it does not mean you shouldn’t be safe. It is still possible to pass a sexually transmitted disease through oral sex. You are at risk of STDs that pass through ejaculatory fluids. If you think that will not be a problem, then don’t forget about STDs that pass through mucus, such as the Human Papilloma Virus, which is a type of cervical cancer.

Even though oral is not intercourse, it is important to remember that it is still sex. The dangers are just as high. Like sex, it is important to know who you partner up with. So you know the drill: Be safe, know the person and use protection.

Just remember to perform your service with a smile.

Mikhail Chernyavsky can be reached a [email protected]