Personal Lubricant
Personal lubricants (also known as lube) offer a solution for those who either do not lubricate enough or do not lubricate at all. They can also be used to enhance different sensations or create novelty, regardless of whether partners lubricate enough or not! For instance, some lubes are flavored, while others offer a warming sensation. Lubricants work by reducing friction between body parts during sexual activity. They can be used by partners engaging in sexual activity or during masturbation.
A Few Types of Lubricants:
- Water-based lubricants are the most commonly used lubricants, and although they have the tendency to dry out, they can be reapplied as needed. They are water-soluble, which means they dissolve in water. Therefore, water-based lubricants are incompatible with sexual activities that involve water, such as in the shower, bathtub, pool, etc. Examples of water-based lubricants are KY Jelly or Astroglide.
- Silicone-based lubricants last longer than water-based lubricants because they are not absorbed by skin or mucus membranes. In addition, they do not dissolve in water, which makes them compatible for water-related sexual activities. They also offer a different sensation than water-based lubricants.
- Oil-based lubricants are only recommended for women who have experienced irritation from over-the-counter lubricants and DO NOT use condoms. Oil-based lubricants cause condoms to lose their elasticity, thus raising the risk that the condom will break or slip off. Therefore, if you are not in a monogamous relationship and are using condoms, be sure to use either water or silicone-based lubricants, NOT oil-based lubricants. Examples of oil-based lubricants are baby oil, Vaseline, and even whipped cream.
When using personal lubricants with a partner, make sure that they do not contain nonoxynol-9 (n-9), a spermicide that has been shown to cause skin irritations and tears that allow viruses (especially HIV) to be transmitted more easily.
Personal lubricants DO NOT protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Therefore, if you are not in a monogamous relationship in which both you and your partner have been tested for STIs, you should always use condoms.
Personal lubricants DO NOT prevent pregnancies, so if this is a concern to you, be sure to use a method of birth-control, such as a condom or the Pill.