Protection...

Lets face it, prevention is better than cure! As most STIs go unnoticed, one way to limit your chances of this is to never have sex...or protect yourself! Using a barrier during sex can help you in avoiding a number of common STIs. Lubricants can be used to increase sensation for the receiving partner. Remember, stick to one side of the barrier and only use once!

Condom

Condoms can be used to protect phallic shaped toys (aids) when used between partners or more than one individual.

They can also be used as an oral/genital barrier during sex to prevent the exchange of bodily fluids. See the illustration above for tips on how to transform your everyday condom into an STI defying protector!

Latex Gloves

Latex gloves (or non latex Surgical gloves) are also a common household product that can be transformed (or used as is) to protect you during sex. 

Gloves can be used to protect during digital penetration for both partners and can also be cut (see illustration) to form an oral/genital barrier during sex.

Dental/Glyde Dams

Dams are thin latex sheets, (also available in non latex), that cover the vaginal or anal area acting as a barrier during oral vaginal or oral anal sex. 

Dams can be hard to source in Ireland and as a result online shopping may be your only option. Please see here for an UK retailer willing to post to Eire.