If you’re wondering what a dental dam is, it’s a thin sheet made of latex that is used as a barrier to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases during oral sex.
The use of dental dams during oral sex is often overlooked and not promoted as much as the use of condoms during vaginal or anal sex. This is why the initiative taken by Durex to distribute 10,000 dental dams is a commendable step towards promoting safe and healthy sexual practices.
Why is Oral Sex Risky?
Oral sex is considered to be safer in terms of the transmission of STDs than vaginal or anal sex, but there is still a risk involved. A person with an STD can easily infect their partner during oral sex without either of them even realizing it.
Oral sex can increase the risk of getting infections like herpes, syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. In some cases, these infections can be transmitted even when the infected person does not have any visible symptoms. Therefore, using a dental dam is a significant preventive measure for safe oral sex.
The Importance of Safe Sex Practices
Knowing about safe sex practices is crucial for people of all ages and genders. One should never take risks when it comes to their health and well-being.
Safe sex practices help prevent the spread of diseases, unwanted pregnancies, and also promote general sexual health awareness. Unfortunately, many people do not have access to information, or they do not have access to protection measures like dental dams, condoms, and lubricants, etc.
If we want to promote safe and healthy sexual practices, we need to make these measures accessible to everyone, regardless of their location, gender, or socio-economic status.
Durex’s Initiative to Promote Safe Sex Practices
According to Durex, the goal of this initiative was to promote safe sex practices and encourage people to prioritize their sexual health. 10,000 dental dams were distributed across the UK to schools, colleges, and youth organizations.
Related Article
50,000 Lubricants from Durex to HELP
Durex’s hope is that this will start a conversation about safe sex practices and encourage young people to practice safe sex.
How to Use a Dental Dam
If you are new to the concept of dental dams, here is how you can use them:.
- Open the dental dam packet carefully, so it doesn’t tear.
- Place the dental dam over the vulva or the anus before oral sex.
- Hold it in place using your fingers or dental dam straps if provided by the manufacturer.
- After use, dispose of the dental dam properly in the trash can.
The Advantages of Using Dental Dams
The following are some of the advantages of using dental dams:.
- Dental dams provide a barrier, thus lowering the risk of STDs, including HIV.
- Dental dams can also reduce the risk of getting infections like herpes, syphilis, and gonorrhoea during oral sex.
- Dental dams can protect you during menstruation, as menstrual blood may also carry disease-causing pathogens.
- Using dental dams may lessen the unpleasant taste or odour of the genitals, making oral sex more enjoyable for both partners.
- Using dental dams can protect you from Hepatitis A and B.
Where to get Dental Dams?
Dental dams can be purchased from drugstores, family planning clinics or ordered online. However now with initiatives like Durex’s, you may even be able to get them at locations like schools and colleges for free.
You can also opt for non-latex dental dams, made of materials like polyurethane, for those who are allergic to latex. It’s always a good practice to keep dental dams on hand if you’re sexually active so that you can prioritize your sexual health.
The Bottom Line
The initiative taken by Durex to distribute 10,000 dental dams is an excellent step towards promoting safe and healthy sexual practices. It is time we focus on more than just vaginal and anal protection and shift attention to oral sex as well.
The use of dental dams can significantly reduce the risk of STDs and promote general sexual health awareness. We need to encourage people to prioritize their health and make safe sex practices accessible to everyone.
