It is not uncommon for external condoms to be the only barrier method taught during sex education. While external condoms are useful, there are other kinds of barriers available that you may find to be more suitable for certain occasions. The following barriers should be used to prevent contracting and/or spreading STIs. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Storing them in pockets, wallets, cars, etc. may degrade the materials. Check the expiration date on packaging, and examine your barriers for any tears or other defects. Barriers are meant for single use only; please dispose of them properly.

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Other Kinds of Barriers (Comic)

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External Condoms

External condoms are usually made of latex material, and are designed to be placed over a penis to prevent pregnancy as well as protect against the spread of STIs. Purchasing condoms of different sizes and thicknesses can help you find the right fit for your body, increasing comfort and helping to prevent the condom from rolling off or breaking. Lubricating the inside of the condom before putting it on can also make wearing a condom more comfortable and pleasurable. Though wearing an external condom reduces sensation for the wearer, it is no excuse to act irresponsibly by refusing to wear one. If you or your partner has a latex allergy, polyurethane condoms are available. External condoms can easily be made into dental dams, and can be put over toys to help keep them clean. 

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**Flavored condoms are designed for oral sex only, and should not be used for penetrative sex of any kind.**

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Condom Basics (Comic)

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What is a Condom and How Do I Use One? (Planned Parenthood)

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Internal Condoms

Internal condoms are made of nitrile, and are designed to be inserted into the vagina or anus prior to sex to prevent pregnancy and STI transmission. The closed end of the condom contains a removable ring that can make initial insertion easier. Internal condoms can also be made into dental dams. Though the sounds made by the condom during use may seem funny, there are a few advantages to using internal condoms:

1. Since you don't need an erection to wear one, you can plan ahead and wear it long before sexual activity.

2. Because it doesn't tightly encase the penis like an external condom, the person penetrating will likely find an internal condom more pleasurable, as it allows for much more movement and texture stimulation.

3. Internal condoms are made of nitrile, so they're able to be used if you have a latex allergy. 

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Internal Condoms (Comic)

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Internal Condoms and How to Use Them (Planned Parenthood)

  

Dental Dams

Dental dams are usually made of latex, but latex-free ones can be found. These flat squares are meant to be placed over the vulva or anus before engaging in oral sex. You will probably need to use your hands to keep the dam spread over the genital area. More vaginal moisture or a little bit of lubricant will help to keep the dam in place. Make sure that you do not flip between sides of the dental dam, as this defeats its purpose. Unfortunately, buying dental dams can be somewhat expensive. If you don't have any dental dams handy, you can easily make one out of condoms or gloves.

 

**You may hear that you can use saran wrap as a makeshift dam, but we highly discourage this. Lots of saran wrap is porous in order to make it microwave safe, potentially allowing STIs to pass through the barrier**

How to Use a Dental Dam (Webpage with illustrations)

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Dental Dam Misconceptions (Planned Parenthood) 

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Making a Dam From a Condom (Webpage with illustrations)

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Making a Dam From a Glove (Webpage with illustrations)

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Gloves and Finger Cots

Examination gloves are an incredibly useful method of protection for both giving and receiving parties. Gloves allow for quick cleanup and great protection from sharp nails. We highly recommend them for any penetration involving your hands. Gloves can greatly reduce the risk of contracting or spreading STIs, especially if you have open skin on your hands or longer nails. Wearing gloves doesn't allow for fine tactile sensation, so remember to check in with your partner about lubrication needs. Both latex and nitrile exam gloves can be found in a variety of sizes, colors, and thicknesses. Black gloves are particularly useful for hiding body fluids during sex, and can actually be arousing in their appearance for some people. You can easily find exam gloves online or at pharmacies.  

Finger cots serve the same purpose as gloves, but only cover individual fingers.