While the term "female oral condom" is not a standard medical or widely recognized term, the protective barrier used during oral sex on a vulva or anus is commonly called a dental dam.
What is a Dental Dam?
A dental dam is a thin, square piece of latex or polyurethane designed to be placed over the vulva or anus during oral sex. Its primary purpose is to create a physical barrier, preventing direct skin-to-skin contact and the exchange of bodily fluids (such as saliva, vaginal fluids, or anal fluids). This barrier significantly reduces the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Dental dams are an essential tool for safer oral sex practices. They help protect against various infections that can be passed through oral contact with genitals or the anus.
Key Characteristics:
- Material: Most commonly made from latex, but non-latex options (like polyurethane) are available for individuals with latex allergies.
- Shape: Typically a thin, square sheet, allowing it to cover the desired area effectively.
- Availability: You can purchase dental dams online, at many drugstores, and often obtain them for free at sexual health clinics.
Why Use a Dental Dam? Preventing STIs
The main reason to use a dental dam is to prevent the spread of STIs. Many STIs can be transmitted through oral sex, including:
- Herpes (HSV)
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Syphilis
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
By creating a barrier, dental dams help to block these pathogens from passing between partners. While they are highly effective, no barrier method is 100% foolproof, but they drastically reduce risk.
How to Use a Dental Dam Effectively
Using a dental dam correctly ensures maximum protection and comfort.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Check Expiration: Always ensure the dental dam is not expired and the packaging is intact.
- Open Carefully: Tear open the package gently, avoiding anything that could snag or tear the dam (e.g., teeth, fingernails, jewelry).
- Position: Place the dental dam flat and firmly over the vulva or anus that will be receiving oral stimulation. Ensure it completely covers the area.
- Maintain Position: Hold the dam in place throughout the sexual activity. It's crucial that the dam does not flip over or get moved to expose the skin underneath.
- Use Lubricant: Water-based or silicone-based lubricants can be applied to the side of the dam facing the mouth to enhance sensation and comfort.
- Dispose Properly: After use, carefully remove the dental dam, ensuring no fluids spill. Dispose of it in a trash can; do not flush it down the toilet.
- New Dam, New Act: Always use a new dental dam for each separate sexual act. Do not reuse a dental dam.
Alternatives if a Dental Dam Isn't Available
While purpose-made dental dams are ideal, if one isn't readily available, an emergency alternative can be fashioned from a non-lubricated latex condom. Carefully cut the condom to create a flat sheet. However, purpose-made dental dams are thicker and designed for this specific use, offering better protection and ease of handling. Plastic wrap is not recommended as a substitute due to its porous nature and lack of proven STI protection.
Other Forms of Oral Sex Protection
While dental dams protect during oral sex on a vulva or anus, other protective measures are used depending on the anatomy involved:
Male Condoms
If a guy is receiving oral sex on a penis, he should wear a condom to prevent the spread of STIs. This is a common and effective method for penile-oral sex. Like dental dams, condoms create a barrier against fluid exchange and direct skin contact.
Comparing Dental Dams and Male Condoms
Understanding the distinct uses of these barriers is key to comprehensive safer sex practices.
| Feature | Dental Dam | Male Condom |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Barrier for oral sex on vulva or anus | Barrier for penis during penetrative or oral sex |
| Shape | Flat, square sheet | Rolled sheath |
| STI Protection | High, for oral-genital/anal contact | High, for penile-genital/anal/oral contact |
| Pregnancy Prev. | Not applicable | High (during penetrative sex) |
| Availability | Online, drugstores, sexual health clinics | Online, drugstores, supermarkets, sexual health clinics |
| Lubrication | Use water- or silicone-based lube on mouth-facing side | Pre-lubricated; use water- or silicone-based lube on outside |
Where to Find Dental Dams
Accessing dental dams is becoming increasingly easy:
- Online Retailers: Many sexual health product websites and general e-commerce platforms sell dental dams.
- Pharmacies and Drugstores: Check the sexual health or family planning aisle.
- Sexual Health Clinics: Local sexual health centers, Planned Parenthood, or college health services often provide dental dams for free or at a low cost, along with information on safer sex practices.
Using dental dams is a proactive and responsible way to engage in safer oral sex, protecting yourself and your partners from STIs and promoting overall sexual health.
