Many sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs) can be passed from one person to another during oral sex. Oral sex describes when a person uses their mouth on a partner’s genitals for pleasure. Sex dams, also called “oral dams” or “dental dams”, are latex or polyurethane sheets that can be used for oral sex on a vulva, vagina, scrotum, or anus to prevent the spread of STBBIs. Sex dams prevent direct contact with bodily fluids (like saliva and vaginal fluids) between partners and, when used correctly, offer protection for all partners from STBBIs, including HIV/AIDS.
Sex dams are thin enough to experience sexual pleasure without the exchange of bodily fluids. Using them is simple; first, get consent from all partners for this sexual activity. Next, cover the genital area with one side of the sex dam; lay it flat so the most area possible is covered. Then the other partner can lick the other side of the sex dam with a low risk of touching sexual fluids. It is important not to re-use sex dams and to use a new one for each partner.
A good video on how to use sex dams is available here.
Ready-to-use dams can be purchased from some pharmacies, and are available free of charge at SERC and many other community health centres. You can also make your own sex dam from an external condom, by cutting off the reservoir tip, cutting up the side, and then spreading the remaining latex into a square and placing it over the area of contact.
You can also make your own sex dam from a latex or nitrile glove, by cutting off the fingers and then cutting the sides of the glove to create a square.
*Picture from catie.ca, thanks CATIE!
