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I normally masturbate by licking my hand and using the saliva as a lube, because I'm circumcised and the thrusting motion I actually don't like—it can tear my penis skin since it's too tense.
Is using saliva safe, or does it contain bacteria that could cause me something? Obviously I can't contract a disease I didn't have, but maybe bacteria in the mouth should not reach the penis?
Saliva is safe to apply to the sexual organs. While it is true that the mouth contains lots of micro-organisms, the same varieties are also commonly thrive elsewhere in the body, and are all harmless against a normally functioning immune system. Saliva also contains antibacterials, has skin-like acidity, and acts as a pH buffer.
The only concern is that it may also contain anything that has recently been in your mouth. For example, using saliva as a sexual lubricant may be risky if you—
have a topical infection around your mouth or lips, or have recently licked a location of such an infection,
have recently eaten a food that can irritate sensitive skin or mucous membranes (e.g. vinegar, salt, or anything abrasive), or
have recently kissed or had oral sex with anyone who might have a sexually transmissible illness.
In cases that you're unsure, other water-based lubricants sold in supermarkets and pharmacies are a safe alternative.
