What is an oral dam?
Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, herpes and papillomavirus can all be contracted during oral sex.
When performing oral sex on a penis, a condom rolled onto the penis works as oral protection in the same manner it protects during intercourse. If a latex condom tastes unpleasant, you can try various flavoured condoms and lubricants.
When oral sex is performed in the area of the vagina or anus, it’s advisable to use a ready oral dam or make one from a condom.
An oral dam is placed so that its covers the labia, clitoris, vaginal opening as well as the perineum and/or the area around the anus.
Oral dams are sheets of material made from latex, Ready oral dams are silky think, just a bit thicker than condoms. They are larger than condoms and for this reason easier to use than an oral dam made out of a condom.
Plastic food wraps is not a reliable oral dam, as it is not intended for the activity in question. Plastic wrap can stretch and tear easily.
Oral dams are intended for one-time use, but if a sexual partner does not change, you can use the same oral dam again, as long as you indicate on the oral dam (e.g. with a marker) which side has faced the genitalia.
Use a water-based lubricant with an oral dam (as it will not cause the latex to weaken or tear). Put lube on the side that will be in contact with sexual organs. This will help the oral dam stay in place.
You can buy ready oral dams in sex shops, online and in well-stocked pharmacies.
Because oral dams are unfortunately not available in every store or even in every pharmacy, one option is to make one out of a condom.
How to make an oral dam from a condom
- Open the condom package and roll the condom open.
- Use scissors to cut off the tip the condom, i.e. the semen container.
- Cut open the opened condom so that it becomes a rectangular cloth.
- Apply the resulting oral dam over the vulva/anus and the area is ready to accept pleasure in a manner that is safe for both parties.
Remember to tell what kind of sex you have had when getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases. If you have had unprotected oral sex, samples will also be taken from the area of the mouth and pharynx.