Dear hondagrl04,

A Glyde dam is a thin piece of latex than can be placed over the vulva or anus for safer oral sex. Plastic wrap can also be used for this purpose, but the Glyde dam is the only FDA-approved barrier for this kind of oral sex.

Although the risk of infection is generally quite a bit lower with unprotected oral sex than with unprotected vaginal or anal intercourse, using a barrier (a Glyde dam or plastic wrap to cover the vulva or anus, or a condom to cover the penis) during oral sex can further decrease those risks. For more information about Glyde, visit the Glyde dam Web site.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.