Personal Lubricants
Bridget Coley PT, MSc. PT, BKin
Personal lubricant is a liquid or gel used to prevent unwanted friction during sexual activity. The definition of a lubricant is a substance, such as oil or grease, used for minimizing friction. Vaginal dryness can lead to discomfort or pain during intercourse and lubricants can help with this discomfort. They can also be helpful when inserting different pelvic health tools such as pelvic wands and dilators.
There are many different kinds of lubricants on the market today. They can generally be divided into three broad categories depending on the base ingredient: water-based lubricants, silicone-based lubricants and oil-based lubricants.
Water Based Lubricants
Water based lubricants are the most versatile lubricant as they are safe to use with condoms, silicone toys and dilators. However, one of the draw backs with water-based lubricants is that they tend to dry out more frequently and will need re-application. Water base lubricants will also not hold up in water, they will just dissolve as they are water-soluble.
Silicone Based Lubricants
Silicone based lubricants are not absorbed by the skin so they last a lot longer than water-based lubricants. They will last in water and most can be used with latex condoms. However, they cannot be used with other silicone devices, including dilators, as they can break down the material over time.
Oil Based Lubricants
Oil based lubricants can be an option for those who are wanting to avoid the preservatives and additives often found in other lubricants. Similar to silicone lubricants, they are also longer lasting. However, they should not be used with latex condoms as they can cause them to tear or break. They can also not be used with silicone products.
Want you want and don’t want in a personal lubricant
Many lubricants can contain potentially irritating chemicals including glycerin, petrochemicals, commonly referred to as propylene glycol and polyethylene glycol and parabens. If you tend to be more sensitive, or prone to vaginal infections it might be a good idea to avoid lubricants with such chemicals. Some examples of glycerin and paraben free lubricants include Slippery Stuff, Uberlube, Sliquid and Good Clean Love.
Different lubricants can be different pH levels. When selecting a lubricant to be used vaginally you would want it to match vaginal pH (3.5-4.5). If using the lubricant rectally, you would want the lubricant to be closer to rectal pH (6-7). Since most lubricants are designed for vaginal use, they tend to be acidic and therefore not sperm friendly. Most lubricants also tend to inhibit sperm motility. If trying to conceive you may want to consider sperm safe lubricants. Examples include Preseed and YesBaby.
Choosing a lubricant is a personal decision. It can be good to choose a lubricant based on its intended purpose. If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort with intercourse or have any questions about lubricants book an appointment with a pelvic health physiotherapist today!