Condoms for oral sex and dental dams explained simply

Why use a barrier for oral sex

Oral sex is lower risk than vaginal or anal sex, but it is not risk free. Infections such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, herpes and HPV can pass between the mouth and genitals, as our guide to STDs from oral sex explains. A barrier reduces skin and fluid contact, which lowers that risk. It is especially useful with new partners, when testing status is unknown or when either partner has a cold sore history.

Choosing condoms for oral sex

Any regular latex or polyurethane condom works for oral sex. Many people prefer condoms made specifically for oral use, which come in two main types:

• Flavored condoms. They mask the taste of latex and lubricant. Look for ones clearly labeled for oral sex, and check the box for contraceptive and infection protection claims.
• Unlubricated or lightly lubricated condoms. Many standard lubricants taste unpleasant, so a dry or lightly lubricated condom can be more comfortable for oral use.

Flavored condoms are designed for oral sex. Planned Parenthood notes that the sugars in some flavorings can cause irritation or yeast infections, so switch to a regular condom if you move from oral to vaginal sex.

Materials and allergies

Latex is the most common material. If either partner is allergic to latex, choose polyurethane or polyisoprene condoms. Lambskin condoms do not protect against infections and are not suitable for this purpose.

How to use a condom for oral sex correctly

1. Check the expiry date and that the wrapper is intact.
2. Open the wrapper with your fingers, not your teeth.
3. Pinch the tip to leave space and roll the condom down before any oral contact.
4. Use only water based or silicone based lubricant. Oil based products such as lotion or coconut oil weaken latex.
5. After finishing, hold the base while withdrawing, then throw the condom away.
6. Use a new condom for every act and when switching between partners.

What dental dams are and how to use them

A dental dam is a thin square of latex or polyurethane placed over the vulva or anus during oral sex. It allows sensation while acting as a barrier. Dental dams are sold online and in some pharmacies and sexual health clinics, sometimes in flavored versions.

1. Check the dam for tears and the expiry date.
2. Place it flat over the area before oral contact. A little water based lubricant on the receiver's side can increase sensation.
3. Hold it in place with your hands, and keep the same side facing the body throughout.
4. Use it once, then throw it away. Use a new one if you move to a different area.

Making a dental dam from a condom

If you do not have a dental dam, the CDC and Planned Parenthood describe how to make one from a condom. Cut off the tip and the ring at the base, then cut down one side and open it into a flat sheet. A non lubricated or flavored condom works best.

Condoms and dental dams compared

Making barriers feel natural

Barriers work best when you agree on them before things heat up. Keep them within reach, and treat putting one on as part of foreplay. Partners who are used to them often say they stop noticing within minutes. If you are planning a first experience with someone, our first time oral sex guide includes how to bring this up.

Barriers fit every position, so you do not need to change what you enjoy. See oral sex positions for comfortable setups, and is oral sex safe for the bigger picture on risk.

On the content side, Fellate publishes only material from creators and co-performers who pass age and identity verification, and our membership gives access to the curated library of their work.

This guide is general education and is not medical advice. Talk to a doctor or sexual health clinic about your personal situation.