The Low Down on LUBE
Let’s talk lubricants! Our skin is the largest organ in our body. Therefore it is crucial that we are careful about what we put on it because it absorbs everything just like a sponge.
Lube can be great to combat vaginal dryness, stimulate your senses, and can make sex safer as the decrease in friction that it provides lowers the risk of injury and tears to the tissue.
Not all lube is created equal!!!
Two important things to consider: pH and osmolality
pH: the PH of a healthy vagina is 3.8-4.5. A healthy lubricant will have a pH similar to this. Lubricants with a pH above 4.5 can increase risk of bacterial vaginosis.
Anal canal: pH ~7 Aim for a lube between 5.5-7
Osmolality: (solutes present in the lube)
Anal/vaginal: Avoid osmolality over 1200 mOsm/kg. The recommendation is less than 380). Hyperosmolality damages tissue lining and increases susceptibility to infection
What to avoid:
Chlorhexidine Gluconate: kills good bacteria which is essential for a balanced and healthy vagina
Parabens: mimics estrogen and is an endocrine disruptor, can cause genital rashes and fertility issues
Cyclo-silicones: such as Cyclomethicone, Cyclo-Tetrasilicone, etc. linked to uterine cancer and reproductive harm
Nonoxynol 9: Increases transmission of viruses including HIV. Increases risk of yeast infections. Be especially wary of this ingredient if trying to conceive as it is a spermicide.
Glycerin, Glycol (8.3% or less), Glycerol (9.9% or less): these are humectants that draw in moisture from the vagina, can cause dryness and as a sugar derivative can contribute to yeast infections and UTI
Flavored lubes: contain undisclosed chemicals which may include carcinogens, reproductive toxins, and allergens
**As a general rule of thumb, steer clear of anything cooling, warming, numbing, flavored, or colored**
There are three main types of lube:
Oil-based: NOT compatible with condoms, as the oil can break down the condom reducing its effectiveness. Can alter the pH of the vagina
Water-based: Ideal for toys and condom use. Sometimes require reapplication due to how quickly they absorb. Not good for sexual activity in water (pool, shower, etc.)
Silicone based: Compatible with condoms but NOT silicone sex toys
My favorite brands to recommend are: Yes, Slippery Stuff, Sliquid, Good Clean Love & Coconu
Takeaway:
Make sure that the chosen lubricant isn’t throwing off your pH and/ or causing skin irritation
Make sure that the chosen lubricant is the right type for your intended purpose
Avoid harmful chemicals
Check-in with your Dr if you notice sudden/unexplained changes in dryness to ensure that there is no serious health issue contributing to this
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