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What is exactly is an oral barrier?  Condoms have been around for centuries in one form or another for use to help prevent unwanted pregnancies and to help reduce the transmission of infections.  But many people are unaware of oral barriers, or dental dams, as they are more commonly known as.  A dam is a sheet of latex or polyisoprene (non-latex) that is used as a barrier when performing oral-vaginal or oral-anal sex.  They are used to help reduce the transmission of infections that can occur.  Yes, you can get an STI from oral sex!

History of Dams

Dental Dams were originally invented by Sanford Barnum in 1864 to isolate a tooth from the rest of the mouth during dental procedures.  This 5- or 6-inch square sheet began to also be used as a barrier during oral sex.  Over time, the dental dam became an option that was better than cling wrap or cut up condoms!  The dental dam still exists in dentistry, but it was not exactly conducive to the sensual aspect of oral sex due to its thickness and smaller size.  Enter today’s oral barrier!  The late 1980s saw an increased openness in speaking about sexual wellness, safer sex, and sexuality in general. And people started asking about dams. 

How to Use a Dam

Oral sex still has the risk of spreading infections.  The use of an oral barrier helps to reduce the risk when used consistently and properly.  Dams are a single use barrier.   Lay the dam flat to cover the anus or vagina/vulva.  Hold the dam in place without stretching it.  Do not flip the dam.  Use a new dam when switching from oral-anal to oral-vaginal sex.  Dispose of the dam after use.  

Risk Factors

There are many different factors that determine the risk of transmitting an STI.  According to the CDC, “Many STDs, as well as other infections, can be spread through oral sex. Anyone exposed to an infected partner can get an STD in the mouth, throat, genitals, or rectum. The risk of getting an STD from oral sex, or spreading an STD to others through oral sex, depends on several things, including:

• The particular STD.
• The sex acts practiced.
• How common the STD is in the population to which the sex partners belong.
• The number of specific sex acts performed.

They also talk about how studies have shown that the risk of getting HIV from having oral sex with an infected partner is much lower than the risk of getting HIV from anal or vaginal sex with an infected partner. But that you should still use some form of protection to help further reduce the risk of spreading or getting any STI.

Harmony Dams

Harmony Dams are available in both Latex and Polyisoprene (non-latex).  Harmony Polyisoprene Dams are the only polyisoprene oral barrier available for individuals with latex allergies or sensitivities. Both Harmony Dams are a 6x10 inch sheet to provide maximum coverage. They are lightly scented and natural color.  Both products are available in retail or bulk packaging.

Spread a dam, not an infection!