Finger cots can also be used forsafer sexwhenfingeringa partner or giving ananal massage.
Finger cots can be bought online, at pharmacies, and at big-box stores like Walmart.
Youll get step-by-step instructions on how to use finger cots to preventsexually transmitted infections (STIs).
hphimagelibrary / Getty Images
Why Use a Finger Cot?
This includes massaging a partner’sprostate gland, which can be sexually stimulating.
Finger cots can be worn on one or more fingers and thrown away when youre done fingering your partner.
This is important because people who wear gloves during sex often dislike the loss of sensitivity in their hands.
At the same time, some partners do not like the feel of latex or rubber against their skin.
Another advantage is cost.
Many retailers sell 144-count packs of latex finger cots for under $8.
By comparison, a 10-count box of latex condoms can cost $15 to $20.
Finger cots can also be used as a bandage when needed.
For most people, gloves are easier to use.
They cover all of the hand and, if sized correctly, fit like a second skin.
With gloves, you do not have to think as much about exposed skin during sex.
Another downside is that finger cots are small and easy to lose during sexual activity.
Slippage is more common with nitrile finger cots, which do not fit as snugly as latex cots.
If a cot comes off in the vagina, it can usually be fished out easily.
A cot that comes off in the rectum can be harder to retrieve.
Finger cots must also be rolled down over the finger in a specific direction.
It can tear if you roll it down in the wrong direction.
Finger cots increase tactile sensitivity by covering only one finger.
Finger cots are inexpensive.
Nitrile cots are available for those with latex allergies.
Finger cots can cover cuts, burrs, or rough skin.
Finger cots can cover smaller sex toys and vibrators.
For most people, gloves are more convenient and easier to use.
Finger cots can slip off during sex into the vagina or rectum.
Nitrile cots are especially vulnerable to slippage.
Like a condom, a finger cot can tear if rolled down incorrectly.
How to Use a Finger Cot
Unlike condoms, finger cots are not individually wrapped.
For example, an online first aid store might offer a box of144 finger cots.
Finger cots should be thrown away immediately once used.
Finger cots can be safely stored at room temperature but can be damaged by excessive heat or direct sunlight.
Keep them in a cool, dry cabinet or drawer.
If the cots are expired, look damaged or discolored, or smell funny, throw them away.
STIs are common and are spread in different ways.
About 1 in 5 adults in the United Stateshas an STI.
While they do not cost much to buy, finger cots do have downsides.
For example, they can slip into the vagina or rectum during sex.
If not rolled on correctly, finger cots can tear.
Using the right technique and practicing can help see to it you get the most protection from finger cots.
De Vries HJC.Skin as an indicator for sexually transmitted infections.Clin Dermatol.
2019;Volume 12:1381-1384. doi:10.2147/idr.s199163
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Sexually transmitted disease surveillance 2021.
