17. What is a dental dam and why in the world would I want to use one?

1. Dental dams are small, square pieces of latex that are used to cover the woman’s genitals and provide a layer of protection during oral sex. They are important in preventing the spread of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STI’s). Dental dams reduce the risk of any vaginal fluid or blood exchange and prevent skin-to-skin contact between the mouth and the clitoris, vagina or anus. Infections such as HIV, herpes and syphilis can be passed through oral sex; using a dental dam is a good way to protect yourself against these and other infections.

Un-lubricated condoms can easily be made into good substitutes for dental dams.  Unroll the condom, carefully trim off both ends (tip and the elastic band bottom) and cut down the length of the condom. This will give you a rectangular piece of material to use in place of a dental dam.

There are many options out there in terms of dental dams; there are different flavors, colors, latex and non-latex choices. If you’d like, you can also use a water-based lubricant with your dental dam. Mabel Wadsworth Women’s Health Center has free dental dams available (as well as condoms); call us anytime for more information. 

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