Lubricants are a great addition to your life if you have vaginal dryness or even if you simply want to take your sexual experience to the next level!
Although the vagina naturally produces lubricants that keep it elastic and healthy, certain factors like breastfeeding, postpartum changes, stress and more, can cause the vagina to become drier and produce insufficient fluid.
Why Is Lubricant Used?
When women are sexually aroused, the vagina produces extra cervical fluid (natural lubricant) that reduces friction, making insertion smoother and more comfortable. It also enhances sexual pleasure. However, vaginal dryness, often caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy, postpartum, breastfeeding, or menopause, can affect intimacy. Using lubricants alleviates discomfort and helps prevent irritation.
Different Types of Lubricants
- Water-based lubricant
- Oil-based lubricant
- Silicon-based lubricant
- Aloe-based lubricants
- Fertility-friendly lubricants
- CBD suppositories
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1. Water-based Lubricants:
- Water-based lubricants for women are the most common and versatile type of sexual lubricants.
- They're great for inserting dilators, and tampons, or using condoms, diaphragms (a cup-shaped device used during sex to prevent pregnancy), rubber dams (a small thin latex or rubber sheet used to prevent sexually transmitted infections during oral sex), and other preventive methods.
- They are widely available, generally in liquid, gel, and lotion forms, and they are safe to use with sex toys.
- Always pick water-based lubricants that have a pH level of 3.8-4.5 for vaginal use to maintain balance and reduce the risk of bacterial vaginosis.
- Opt for a lube with a pH of 5.5–7 to match its neutral acidity for anal sex.
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2. Silicon-based Lubricants:
- Compared to water-based lubricants, silicon-based ones remain slick for a lot longer.
- Unlike water, silicone does not evaporate, penetrate the skin, or enter the bloodstream.
- It lasts longer since it remains inside your vagina and on the outside of your body– making it one of the best lubricants for women.
- Silicone does not raise your risk of developing a urinary tract infection since it does not alter the pH level in the urethra, bladder, or kidney.
- It is also possible to use silicon-based lubricants for massages (especially those with sensitive skin) and sexual pleasure.
- Since silicone is hypoallergenic, it won't trigger allergic reactions.
- This is an excellent alternative for people who are commonly prone to yeast infections.
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3. Oil-based Lubricants:
- Oil-based lubricants also stay slick longer but can degrade latex, making them unsuitable for use with condoms or latex barriers.
- Synthetic oils like petroleum jelly (example: Vaseline) may lead to infections due to their impact on vaginal pH, allowing germs to grow.
- Oil-based lubricants are also difficult to clean.
- Using natural oils, such as coconut or almond oil, are safer options to use for sex. These still should be avoided with latex products and some sex toys.
Natural oils can be used for massages and sex.
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4. Fertility-friendly Lubricants:
- Fertility-friendly lubricants for women are high-quality lubricants that mimic fertile cervical fluids, supporting sperm movement.
- Unlike other lubricants, they are pH-balanced and gentle, maintaining the vagina’s natural moisture and balance.
- One thing to remember: As fertility-friendly lubricants come in different variations, ensure they are free of sulfates, parabens, glycerin, and low-viscosity formulas to support sperm-friendly conditions for conception.
- Besides, ensuring adequate lubrication during sex is essential to prevent vaginal or urethral trauma and reduce the risk of infection.
- It’s better to opt for natural options like jojoba, coconut oil, aloe, or a vitamin E suppository, which are natural lubricants, for an effective conception.
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5. CBD Suppositories:
- CBD suppositories (the active relaxing ingredient in cannabis) can help enhance natural lubrication by keeping vaginal tissues hydrated.
- This makes them suitable for women experiencing vaginal dryness due to menopause, hormonal changes, or postpartum conditions.
- CBD suppositories have anti-inflammatory effects that soothe irritation, reduce discomfort during sex, and relax pelvic floor muscles to ease tension and enhance comfort.
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using CBD suppositories unless specifically approved by a healthcare provider.
- They are also unsuitable for people with allergies to CBD. Further, those with severe infections or medical conditions should also refrain from using them.
What to Remember When Purchasing a Lubricant?
- Use vitamin E or coconut oil for daily hydration and water-based lubricants during sex.
- Avoid oil-based lubes with condoms as they weaken them. Among these, choose pH-based lubricants to prevent irritation and provide condom safety.
- Choosing lubes with high glycerol for sex can harm vaginal and anal tissues, leading to dryness, discomfort, and increased STI risk.
- You have to avoid lubricants with parabens, glycerol, fragrances, or artificial additives.
Is it Safe to Use Lube when Trying to Conceive or During Pregnancy?
The fact is that many lubricants can impact sperm motility, reducing the chances of conception. If you're trying to conceive, the type of lubricant you use is important. So, choose a water-based, sperm-friendly, or fertility-friendly lubricant, as it mimics natural vaginal lubrication without hindering sperm movement.
Choose the Lube That Suits You
The key takeaway from this guide is to skip lubricants with glycerine, petroleum, or those that tingle or sparkle. Your body deserves better. Go for fragrance-free options and if it doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor or pelvic health specialist.
Remember, pain during sex should be paid attention to even if it’s vaginal dryness. Both are treatable, so choose the right products that suit your body and take your sexual experience to the next level.
Sources:
ACOG- Experiencing Vaginal Dryness? Here's What You Need to Know
Healthline- How to Choose the Best Lube for Your Sex Life
Clue- How to pick a lubricant
