What Are Sex Dams?

Sex dams, also known as dental dams, are a type of barrier method used for oral-anal contact, oral-vulvar contact, or any other type of oral contact on the surface of the body. They can be used by individuals of any gender or sexual identity. Sex dams are available in a variety of flavors.

How do you use Sex Dams?

Sex dams are easy to use. They are sheets of latex that are placed over whatever area of the body is being stimulated orally. They cannot be used more than once, moved to different parts of the body, or flipped over. This increases the chances a partner gets exposed to STIs. Remember to wash your hands before you use them, because oils can degrade a latex dam.

How Effective are Sex Dams at Preventing STI Transmission?

Sex dams are highly effective at preventing the spread of STIs. Latex barriers, when used properly, are over 98% effective at preventing fluid-spread STIs. Sex dams prevent skin-to-skin contact and will also be highly effective at preventing contact-spread STIs.

What are Sex Dams made of?

Sex dams are usually made of latex. However, there are many alternatives to commercial sex dams. Any type of receptive or insertive condom can be used to make a sex dam—simply cut up the side of the condom and it will spread out and make a sheet which can be used as a dam. Latex gloves can also be used to improvise sex dams by cutting up the side of the glove and removing the fingers except the thumb and it will make a sheet with a small pocket, which can be used to place a tongue into. Non-microwaveable saran-wrap can also be used (microwavable wrap is porous, and will not be effective in preventing the spread of STIs.