We offer a variety of free safer sex supplies for students, staff, and faculty to take at their leisure! It's important to be aware of how to use all of the supplies properly, so we've compiled and created a list of how-to's for some safer sex supplies. Please note that this PDF may not be an accurate list of what we currently have in stock in our lounge's available safer sex supplies. If you would like to know what we have available, please send us an email or give us a call.
Internal Condoms
Typically labeled as “female condoms.” Internal Condoms are a non-latex sheath typically used by people with vaginas who desire penetrative sex. The ring on the closed-end gets pinched, inserted, and placed comfortably within the vagina. These condoms are lubricated but additional lubrication can be applied as desired.
Pros
- Prevents STIs and pregnancy
- Can be used in tandem with hormonal methods of contraception
- Can be put in ahead of time
Cons
- Can become twisted
- Cannot be used anally
Things To Note
- Should NOT be used in tandem with an external condom because the friction can cause the condom to break and become ineffective
- The expiration date and tampering with the package should be examined before use
External Condoms
Typically labeled as "male condoms." External Condoms are latex or non-latex sheath typically used by people with penises who desire penetrative or oral sex. The condom should be pinched at the tip and easily rolled onto the penis to cover the full length of the penis. There are lubricated and non-lubricated external condoms, and more lubrication can be applied to both types of condoms as desired.
Pros
- Prevents STIs and pregnancy
- Can be used in tandem with hormonal methods of contraception
- Come in different sizes and textures
- Can be used on sex toys
Cons
- The correct external condom size is important for it to be effective
- Will not protect from skin-to-skin contact STIs (it only covers the shaft and head of the penis)
Things To Note
- Should NOT be used in tandem with an internal condom because the friction can cause the condom to break and become ineffective
- Expiration date and tampering with package should be examined before use
Dental Dams
A latex sheath used for oral sex of the vulva or the anus. Typically flavored and lubricated on one side - the side touching the skin should be lubricated. It should be held taut against the skin but not to the extent of potential tearing.
Pros
- Prevents STI transmission via oral sex
- Can be easily made with an external condom or Saran Wrap (just cut into sheet and apply lube)
Cons
- May have sugars from flavoring that can compromise the vaginal pH
Things To Note
- Cannot be reused
- A new dental dam should be used for each new orifice
Gloves
Latex-free and powder-free gloves used for penetrative sex done with the hands. Lubrication should be applied as desired.
Pros
- Covers hands and fingers that often have small cuts and cracks
- Facilitates easier cleanup
Cons
- The correct glove size is important for it to be effective
Things To Note
- Fingernails should be trimmed before use
Water-based Lube
A lubricant primarily made of water. It provides a slippery sensation and can be reapplied as desired.
Pros
- Easier clean-up
- Compatible with all sex toys
- Compatible with condoms
- Comes in different viscosities and flavors
- The container can be placed in warm water for a warm sensation
Cons
- May dry out and become sticky quickly
- Often needs to be reapplied
- Is not compatible with sex acts done in water
- May have sugars from flavoring that can compromise the vaginal pH
Silicon-based Lube
A lubricant primarily made of body-safe manufactured silicon. It provides a very slippery sensation and is recommended for anal sex.
Pros
- Will not dry up as quickly because bodies and membranes will not absorb it
- Compatible with non-silicone sex toys
- Compatible with condoms
- Compatible with sex acts done in or around water
- The container can be placed in warm water for a warm sensation
- Recommended for anal sex
Cons
- Requires soap and water for clean-up because it is not water-soluble
- Can leave stains on cloth materials
- Is NOT compatible with silicone sex toy