Getting wet down there is sometimes a little tough for many women, whether it’s vaginal dryness or lack of arousal, vaginal lubrication is extremely essential for a good sexual experience. Sexual intercourse without proper lubrication can be very painful and damage the vaginal lining.
So, you might want to use adequate lubrication if you do not get wet down there easily or have vaginal dryness. Wanna know more about vaginal lubrication and how to apply lubricants? Well, we have a lot to tell you in this article.
Read on to find out all about vaginal lubrication and its usage.
Why is Vaginal Lubrication Important?
A vagina can self lubricate itself normally when the woman is aroused. Natural lubrication makes the sexual experience more fun and convenient. Without it, you may find sex painful so it’s always a good option to use lubricants if you feel there is not enough wetness down there while having sex. You might need vaginal lubricants when your body produces less lubricant because of hormonal changes, aging, or certain medications which can make the sex a little tough and painful.
Vaginal LubricationThe artificial lubricants which are widely available can enhance arousal, keep your vagina soft and reduce friction while penetration, there different types of lubricants available online as well as in your local pharmacy store. Anyone can use vaginal lubricants even if your body produces lubrication naturally and if you have vaginal dryness, lubricant can be your best friend. It helps reduce itching, burning, and irritation during intercourse.
Which Vaginal Lubricants Should you Choose?
There are a variety of vaginal lubricants to choose from. There are many types of lubricants to try according to your needs and preferences. You can switch up if you did not like one, it’s normal. Whether you’ve been using a particular lubricant for a long time and want to expand your collection or you are a first-time buyer who is looking for the best type of lubricant for a greater sexual experience.
Vaginal LubricationHere are some types of lubricants you should know about:
1. Water-Based Lubricants
Water-based lubricants are most commonly and widely used for vaginal lubrication. They are often called ‘versatile’ lube because they can be used with any sexual activity whether it’s penetration or usage of silicone sex toys. They usually come in two types- with glycerine and without glycerine.
Pros:
- Water-based lubricants are cost-effective, easily available, and safe to use.
- They won’t stain your sheets, so yay!
- Glycerine-free water-based lubricants are less probable to irritate.
- Longer shelf life.
Cons:
- Lubricants containing glycerine usually dry out quickly.
- These can sometimes cause yeast infections because of their sugar content.
- Glycerine-free lubricants are bitter if you go for oral sex.
- They can become sticky.
2. Silicone-Based Lubricants
Silicone-based lubricants are odorless and have no taste. It is smooth on your sensitive parts and it is also hypoallergenic so it is very less likely to cause any reaction on your skin.
Pros:
- Silicon-based lubricants last longer than any type of lubricant.
- They are safe to use with latex condoms.
- Good for shower sex too because it holds up underwater.
- Non-allergic, so it won’t cause any reaction.
Cons:
- Silicone-based lubricants are usually hard to wash.
- Silicone-based lubricants are not advised to use with silicone sex toys.
3. Oil-Based Lubricants
These lubricants are oil-based. They are made with oils like avocado, coconut, vegetable, and olive oils so they are great for genital massage and other types of sexual activities.
Pros:
- Oil-based lubricants are safe to use, even for oral sex. Also, they are affordable and easily available.
- Great for massaging genitals.
- Synthetic oil-based lubricants are good for masturbation.
Cons:
- Oil-based lubricants can damage latex condoms.
- It can stain your sheets.
- It can often irritate your vagina.
- Hard to wash off.
4. Natural Lubricants
Natural lubricants are made with organic or ‘natural’ ingredients. If you love botanical or eco-friendly products, natural lubricants are a good option.
Pros:
- Many natural lubricants are paraben-free.
- Made with organic ingredients.
- Safe for your vagina and the environment.
Cons:
- They have a shorter shelf life.
- They are expensive.
How to use Vaginal Lubricants?
Vaginal lubricants are amazing if you have vaginal dryness. However, it’s always a good idea to use some additional artificial lubrication for a better experience. Using vaginal lubricants isn’t bound with any quantity. Apply it as much as you and apply it wherever required whether it’s the vagina, anus, or even penis. If you are using a condom, avoid oil-based lubricant on the outside.
Vaginal LubricationHere’s how to use vaginal lubricants effectively:
- Lay a towel to prevent stains.
- Warm the lubricant in your hand before you apply it.
- Do not forget to use lubricant during foreplay for more arousal.
- Apply the lubricant just before penetration.
- Apply an ample amount of lubricant on your vagina, sex toy, or penis.
- Reapply the lubricant whenever and wherever required.
- You can use it for massage, fingering, handjobs or masturbation.
- You can also use it for anal sex.
Side Effects of Using Vaginal Lubricants
Most lubricants are free of any side effects and are safe to use. However, if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in the lube, you can have side effects from a vaginal lubricant. So, it’s always a better idea to look for the label and access all the ingredients to be on the safer side.
Your genitals are sensitive so make sure to use a good quality lube for yourself or your partner. Some ingredients like glycerine, petroleum, nonoxynol-9, propylene glycol, and chlorhexidine gluconate can cause irritation or inflammation. So, check for these ingredients on the label of I’m the lube.
If you experience allergic reactions, irritation, yeast infections, infertility, any swelling, hives, rashes, or itching after using lubricants, see your doctor!
This was all about vaginal lubrication. Do not forget to eat right and be physically active for self-lubrication to prevent vaginal dryness as a bad lifestyle can make your hormones imbalanced, meaning vaginal dryness. Lubing up is never a bad idea even if your vagina self lubricates easily. Lube it up anyway!
Also read: Shared Orgasm
