Collaborative Post¦ The idea of using lube to help your sexual health may seem daunting. The word “lube” brings to mind putting WD-40 on bike chains or getting your car’s oil changed. But vaginal lubricant is a helpful and, in some cases, necessary tool for intimacy. Let’s dive into the topic and you’ll see that “lube” isn’t a dirty word.
What is Lube?
Lube is short for personal lubricant and it is just that: a lubricant that will decrease friction in order to promote comfort and pleasure. Personal lubricants are normally either water-based, silicone based, and oil based. To determine which is right for you please consult with your health-care provider. Also, it is worth considering what you will be putting your lubricant on. If you are going to be using your lubricant for a silicone-based sex toy or vaginal dilator, please check with the product’s manufacturer as some silicone-based lubricants can damage the material of your dilator or sex-toy.
Does Lube Mean I’m Not Aroused by My Partner?
Not at all. And for those in the back who may have not heard us, “NEEDING/WANTING TO USE LUBE DOES NOT MEAN YOU AREN’T AROUSED BY YOUR PARTNER.” Just wanted to clear that up.
While your body does produce its own natural lubricants, sometimes it doesn’t produce enough or even more simply… maybe you just want more. Many factors can reduce your body’s ability to lubricate itself such as age or medications. And more so, many people find that more lubrication increases pleasure. In some forms of intimacy, such as anal sex, the uses of lube isn’t just a fun addition but a necessity to reduce risks of tears or discomfort.
How Do I Choose the Right Lube for Me and Where Can I Find Lube?
Finding lube is not hard. Finding the right one for you may take some trial and error. While you can find personal lubricants in many major groceries and pharmacies, remember convenience is not the same as quality. Research if you need a water or silicone based lubricant and what specifically you will use the lubricant for. It is also worth noting that there has been research on Osmolality or the concentration of dissolved particles per unit of water. Lubricants high in Osmolality will pull water out of your body’s cells, so it might be worth it to invest in a higher quality lubricant. The World Health Organization recommends a lubricant with an osmolality below 1200 mOsm/kg.
Just remember, lube is not just good for you, but good for your partner as well. Take the time to find the right lubricant for you and your partner.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.