Condoms get all the attention. And for good reason! But they’re not the only barrier that protects against STIs and helps you control pregnancy risk. Internal condoms, dental dams, and gloves can make sex safer, more comfortable, and more affirming across all body types and kinds of sex. Here’s how to use them correctly, pair them with the right lube, and find them free or low-cost in St. Louis.
Internal Condoms (a.k.a. “female” condoms or FC2)
What they are: A soft, nitrile pouch worn inside the vagina or anus. They protect against STIs and pregnancy without needing an erection to stay on, and they give the receptive partner more control.
How to use (vaginal):
Open carefully. Add a little lube to the closed end. Pinch the inner ring and guide it into the vagina like a tampon, aiming toward the lower back. The outer ring stays outside and should cover the vulva.
How to use (anal):
Remove the inner ring first. Add plenty of lube to the inside and the outside rim. Insert the pouch so a portion remains outside to protect the anal opening. Hold the outer ring in place. Replenish lube as needed.
Fit tips:
● Do not use an internal condom with an external condom at the same time (friction can cause tearing).
● Internal condoms can feel roomier and reduce “tightness” or friction, great for folks who find external condoms too snug.
Best lube pairing: Water- or silicone-based lubricants work well. Avoid oils; they weaken some materials and increase breakage risk.
Dental Dams
What they are: Thin latex or polyurethane sheets for oral-vaginal and oral-anal sex. They block STI transmission through mucous membranes while keeping sensation.
How to use:
Place the dam over the vulva or anus before any mouth contact. Hold the corners so it doesn’t slip. Keep the same side facing the body the entire time; otherwise, you’re moving fluids to your mouth.
Best lube pairing: Water- or silicone-based lube on the body side only. Flavored dams exist; if using flavored products, keep them external only.
Gloves (Latex or Nitrile)
What they are: Barriers for fingering/hand play that reduce microtears, keep nails from scratching, and prevent STI transmission when there are cuts, hangnails, or broken skin. Nitrile is a good latex-free option.
How to use:
Choose the right size so the glove doesn’t bunch or feel tight. Trim nails and remove rings first. Add lube to the outside of the glove. Change gloves between partners or body parts (e.g., from anal to vaginal) to avoid cross-transmission.
Fit tips:
● Size matters: too tight and they tear; too loose and you lose sensation and control.
● Finger cots can work, but full gloves protect better and are easier to lube.
Best lube pairing: Water- or silicone-based lube is ideal. Avoid oils that degrade latex.
Picking the Right Lube
Water-based lube is versatile, condom-safe, and toy-safe, but may dry faster. Keep it nearby.
Silicone-based lasts longer, is condom-safe, and great for anal or longer sessions; avoid on silicone toys unless the label says it’s safe.
Oil-based (coconut, body oils) can weaken latex (external condoms, many dams, some gloves). Stick to water or silicone with latex barriers.
Common Barrier Mistakes (and easy fixes)
● Using two condoms at once: More friction, more tearing. Pick one barrier and use it well.
● Skipping site-specific protection: Oral sex can transmit STIs. Use dams for oral-vaginal and oral-anal; ask for throat swabs during testing if you have oral sex.
● Not changing barriers between sites/partners: New barrier for each new site; avoid cross-contamination.
● Dry play: Friction causes tears. When in doubt, add lube.
Where to Get Condoms in St. Louis (Free or Low-Cost)
Health Stop STL (Testing & Referral Center)
Come by for free condoms, safer sex supplies, and help finding internal condoms, dental dams, and gloves. If we’re out, we’ll point you to community partners and low-cost sources. We also offer free STI/HIV testing, at-home kits, and PrEP/PEP/DoxyPEP guidance—no ID or insurance required.
St. Louis County Sexual Health Clinics
Walk-in services with free or low-cost supplies and treatment options. Great for same-day
needs.
Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region & SW Missouri
Stock varies by site, but clinics often carry internal condoms and dams at low cost; they also provide counseling on correct use.
Community Health Centers (Affinia, CareSTL)
Ask the front desk or health educator about safer sex kits and sliding-scale supplies.
Campus Health (WashU, SLU, UMSL, community colleges)
Many student health centers provide dams, condoms, and sometimes gloves, often free.
Online low-cost options
If availability is limited locally, you can order FC2 internal condoms, dams, and nitrile gloves online in bulk. We’re happy to help you choose reputable vendors.
Quick Start Kit (Build Yours Today)
● A handful of external condoms in sizes that fit you or your partner(s)
● Internal condoms for receptive partners
● Dental dams (or learn to DIY from a condom)
● Nitrile gloves in your size
● Water- or silicone-based lube in travel bottles
● A small pouch to keep everything clean, discreet, and ready when you are.
Bottom Line
Barriers aren’t one-size-fits-all. Internal condoms, dental dams, and gloves expand your options,
protect your health, and can increase comfort and pleasure when used with the right lube and
technique. If you want hands-on tips or supplies, visit Health Stop STL. We’ll help you find what
fits your body, your sex life, and your budget, with zero judgment.
