Safety Products
A barrier method is a form of contraception that prevents sperm from entering the uterus as well as prevents transmission of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) to a covered body part. There are several types of barrier methods:
This is a barrier method that is used during oral sex when sexual activity involves the mouth stimulating vagina, anus, or nipples. Dental/oral dams should not be used for oral sex on a penis. A dental/oral dam is a thin piece of latex or polyurethane (sometimes flavored/unflavored) that is held in place over the genitals or other body part to create a barrier between the mouth and genitals to prevent STI transmission orally. If you do not have a dental/oral dam handy you may cut the ends of a condom. STIs that can be transmitted orally include: chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), HIV/AIDS, and trichomoniasis.
An internal condom, also known as a female condom, is a type of barrier method that is inserted into the vagina or anal cavity (remove the inner ring) for protection against unintended pregnancy and the transmission of STI’s such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV/AIDS, human papillomavirus, syphilis, and trichomoniasis. This type of condom can be used in place of an external condom that would be placed onto a penis or sex toy.
An external condom, also known as a male condom, is a latex/polyurethane, nitrile, or non-latex sheath that is placed on a penis or sex toy to prevent an unintended pregnancy and the spread of sexually transmitted infections. Flavored external condoms are recommended when performing oral sex on a penis. These should not be inserted into the vagina because this could cause an infection.
Types of lubrication
Lubricants can increase arousal and sexual pleasure. Lubricants can reduce the transmission of sexually transmitted infections by reducing the friction and damage caused by body parts and the use of barrier methods. Consult a health care provider before using any lubricant substitutes.
- Not compatible with latex condoms
- Great for giving massages; lasts longer
- Thicker consistency; stains clothes
- Do not use Crisco, baby oil, or Vaseline; can contribute to imbalance/infection when used vaginally
- Compatible with latex condoms or Caya (copyright r in circle symbol) diaphragm
- Can damage silicone and cyberskin sex toys
- Waterproof; stay slick in water
- Must use soap and water to wash away
- Lasts longer; can be used for anal sex
- Most common, safet with all condoms and sex toys
- Washes off easily, reactivate with water or saliva
- Flavored lubricant available for oral sex
- Typically not irritating
- Made without any gluten
- Useful for peoplw ith gluten allergies/intolerances
- No animal products or bi-products included
- These lubricants are often aloe-based
- Most flavored lubricants are water-based
- Safe to ingest
- Use for oral sex only, the sugar can cause yeast infections
- Avoid glycerin, propylene glycol, parabens
- Avoid lubricants with spermicides
- If allergic, there are organic (e.g. Sustain Natural, Good Clean Love), gluten-free, and vegan options.