Oral Dam: What is it and How it Can Enhance Your Fun!
When it comes to safe sex, most of us are familiar with condoms - but what happens when the fun gets a little more… adventurous? Whether you’re curious about rimming or indulging in vaginal oral sex, you’re going to need to keep things safe. That’s where the oral dam comes in - a must-have for oral playtime that definitely deserves space in your bedside drawer! Let’s find out more about this sexual companion and why it’s going to become your new best friend…
What is a dam?
A dam is a thin, flexible sheet of latex or polyurethane that is used as a barrier during oral sex. It helps reduce the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis. The dam is placed between your mouth and your partner’s vagina or anus and acts exactly what you would expect from a dam - it holds back the flow and keeps bodily fluids exactly where you want them!
Why are they important?
Sexually transmitted infections don’t ever discriminate - just because you’re skipping penetrative sex, it doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. Any activity that involves sexual fluids being transferred comes with a risk of contracting an STI. Whether it’s rimming or oral sex, infections can make their way through just as easily. That’s where a dam comes in - it acts as a protective layer to ensure you’re always fully protected whatever the sexual activity.
Who should use a dam?
Anyone who engages in rimming (anal-oral sex), or vaginal-oral sex should use a dam. While condoms are widely known for reducing sexually transmitted infections during penetrative sex or oral sex on the penis, most people overlook protection in other areas of sexual activity. Whether it’s a casual hookup, a non-monogamous relationship or a long-term partner, using a dam is the best way to ensure you maintain good sexual health, while still enjoying all your favourite sexual activities.
How do I use a dam?
Using a dam is simple and easy, and once you get the hang of it, it’ll become second nature.
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Check the packaging. Always make sure your dam is hermetically sealed and within its expiration date. This ensures your dam's quality and effectiveness.
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Open carefully. Always open your dam carefully - that means no teeth, scissors or nails. You don’t want to cause any accidental damage to the dam as you won’t be fully protected. Just gently tear where it tells you too.
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Place it correctly. Hold the dam over the genital area (or over the anus if you’re using it for rimming). It should lie flat against the skin, creating a barrier between your mouth and the genital or anal area.
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Have fun! Now you’re fully protected, you can enjoy yourself with peace of mind.
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After use, wrap the dam up in tissue and dispose of it in the bin. Do not flush it down the toilet.
Why is being ‘hermetically sealed' important?
When buying an oral dam, always make sure it’s hermetically sealed. This means it’s airtight and hasn’t been exposed to contaminants. It ensures the material remains effective and safe to use - look out for the MD logo for proper certification to guarantee quality!
Can I use a dam with lubricant?
Yes, you can use a dam with water-based lubricant only. Never use a dam with oil-based lubricants, like vaseline as they can weaken the dam and it may cause it to break, putting you at risk of catching sexually transmitted infections.
What scented flavours are available?
There are four delicious scents to tempt your taste buds with our assorted mix of dams. For those with a sweet tooth, there’s our strawberry. For those feeling adventurous - there’s our banana. For those that need a refreshing hit - there’s our mint and for those craving comfort - there’s our vanilla. Which one will become your new favourite?
7 Useful Tips when Using a Dam
Don’t flip it over: Once you’ve used one side, don’t turn it over. That defeats the purpose of staying protected and you can put yourself at risk of catching a sexually transmitted infection.
Dispose properly: After you’ve finished with your dam, don’t wash it and reuse it. Wrap it up and pop it in the bin.
Try a scented one: It’s not just condoms and lubricants that have all the fun - our dams also come deliciously scented - perfect for those moments when you just want something a little ‘extra’.
Pair it with lubricant: Adding a little water-based lubricant on the side that touches the skin can help to reduce friction and increase sensations.
Hold it in place: Keep it steady with your hands to ensure it doesn’t move around during use.
Don’t stretch it: A dam should fit over the vagina or anus easily - stretching it may make it vulnerable to rips or tears.