Quite unknown, the dental dam is used as a protection against STIs during oral sex. It is a thin sheet of latex that is placed over the vulva or the anus, and acts as a barrier between the sexual organs and the mouth. It is sadly impossible to get a dental dam in drugstores, but they are available in erotic shops. You can also make one out of an external condom.

To make a dental dam, cut off the tip and the ring of an external condom, then cut down the length of the condom to create a rectangular sheet.

The dental dam is the only barrier against the transmission of STIs such as herpes, gonorrhea, syphilis and hepatitis B during mouth/sex organs contacts. Just like many condoms brands, the dental dam is available in different flavors.

For the dental dam to be effective, it is important to use it correctly. Here are some steps to follow:

-To make sure that the dam stays in place, apply a water based lubricant to the vaginal or anal areas before putting the dam in place.

-Use your hand to keep the dam in place.

-Don’t flip it over, and use each dam only once, then throw it out.

-Be sure to use a new dam if switching between the vulva and the anus.

As with the external condom, it is important to manipulate the dam with care and use hands, not teeth, to open the envelope. Is it also essential to always use a water based lubricant.