Barrier methods for STI & BBV prevention

What are barrier methods?

Barrier methods are an effective way to prevent or reduce the risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). They work by physically stopping an infection from being passed from one person to another.

Common barrier methods include:

• condoms (external or internal)
• gloves
• dams

Barriers are single-use only. Even during a single sexual encounter, there are times where you might need to use a new barrier, like if you’re switching partners, moving between different types of penetration, or sharing a toy in one session.

Barriers are commonly made of latex, but there are alternatives (like nitrile) available for those with latex allergies.

This section focuses on reducing the risk of STI transmission. If you want to learn about barrier methods for preventing pregnancy, check out our section on contraception and abortion.

Condoms

Condoms are tube-like barriers used during penetrative sex to prevent the exchange of bodily fluids.

• External condoms are designed to be worn over a penis or insertive toy (like a dildo).
• Internal condoms are designed to be inserted into the vagina or anus, or into a penetrable toy (like a stroker).

Condoms are great protection against STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and HIV, which are passed through bodily fluids. They’re less effective against STIs like herpes, HPV and syphilis, which can be passed through skin-to-skin contact.

When using a condom, make sure to check the label, as expired condoms have a higher chance of breaking. And don’t double up – an extra layer adds extra risk, not extra protection!

Gloves

When it comes to safer sex, hands and fingers are often overlooked. Gloves are an easy and effective way to create a physical protection barrier. They’re great for covering any skin conditions, cuts, or fresh tattoos that might increase the risk of spreading an STI.

Gloves are handy (pun intended) for fingering, fisting and any other activities involving hands and bodily fluids.

Dams

A dam (sometimes called a ‘dental dam’) is a thin piece of latex used for safer oral sex. It prevents direct oral-genital or oral-anal contact (known as ‘rimming’), while still allowing for plenty of pleasure.

Using a dam can help reduce the risk of STIs like herpes, hep A and shigella.

When giving oral sex or rimming with a dam:

• pop some lube on the side that’ll touch the body (rather than the mouth)
• hold the dam down tight on the sides
• if you need, get help from your sexual partner to hold it in place
• make sure it doesn’t flip over while you’re using it.

At first, dams can feel awkward, but they just take a bit of practice! Remember: it’s sexy to be safe.

Dams can be hard to find or expensive, but they’re pretty easy to make from a condom.

Lube

Lube can enhance sexual pleasure, but that’s not all it does! The right lube can also add another level of protection to your body and your barrier methods. Check out our page on lube to learn more.