The bottom line
If you're looking for a lube, you should avoid anything based on petroleum jelly or mineral oil, including baby oil. If you see anything that says “oil” or “petroleum,” the lube won't be safe to use with a condom. Most over-the-counter personal lubricants are safe for most people if used as directed.Vaseline, or petroleum jelly, is an oil based ointment that people can use to moisturize and soften dry skin. People might want to use Vaseline as a sexual lubricant because it has a soft and smooth texture. Vaseline does not get sticky or dry out, which — in theory — also makes it a good lubricant option.
Even if you remove the risk of contracting an STI or vaginal infection, spit is still not advised. “It has no innate qualities that would make it a good lubricant," says Dr. Gersh. "It doesn't have the slippery consistency, it evaporates and dries more quickly, and further, it's irritating.”
The bottom line. Olive oil is likely safe and effective to use as a lube when penetration isn't involved. But if you're having vaginal or anal sex with a partner, don't use olive oil as a lube if you're relying on a condom to protect from STIs and pregnancy. Olive oil can cause skin irritation in some people.
How to pick a lube
- Water-based lube is your safest bet to start with.
- Silicone-based lube is slippery, long lasting, and is ideal for a longer session (4).
- Oil-based lube also provides a slippery feel that lasts longer than water-based lube.
- Using a personal lubricant can also make anal sex safer.
Not really, but sensitive-skin friendly lotions are a great option for extemporaneous lube. “Cream” usually means a heavier feel (think: Crisco), and bottles labeled “lotion” are going to have a more liquid feel. As long as it's fragrance-free and formulated for sensitive skin, you're all good to lube up with it.
You can get a vaginal infection
Gersh. Saliva also contains digestive enzymes that break down food. When you introduce these bacteria and enzymes into your vagina, the result can upset your vaginal microbiome and leave you susceptible to developing a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis, she explains.8 Household Items That Will Work As Lube
- Right, here's some information I bet you didn't know you needed.
- Aloe Vera. You might have some lying around from when, again, you were A FOOL and got yourself sunburnt.
- COCONUT OIL. It smells like heaven and can even ward off yeast infections.
- Olive OIL.
- YOGHURT.
- MARGARINE.
- Primer.
- Vaseline.
9 out of 10 women felt that sex was more comfortable, pleasurable and simply better when using lubrication. It can also make sex feel pleasurable for men too. Having a well-lubricated penis not only enhances pleasure but also prevents damage or abrasion to the delicate tissues of the vagina and penis.
It can also make sex feel pleasurable for men too. Having a well-lubricated penis not only enhances pleasure but also prevents damage or abrasion to the delicate tissues of the vagina and penis. It can also help make sexual intercourse last longer if it feels good.
- Right, here's some information I bet you didn't know you needed.
- Aloe Vera. You might have some lying around from when, again, you were A FOOL and got yourself sunburnt.
- COCONUT OIL. It smells like heaven and can even ward off yeast infections.
- Olive OIL.
- YOGHURT.
- MARGARINE.
- Primer.
- Vaseline.
Causes of vaginal dryness range from physiological factors, such as hormonal changes or medication side effects, to emotional and psychological issues, like a lack of desire or even anxiety. Fortunately, there are nearly as many options for dry vagina relief as there are causes.
The most common treatment for vaginal dryness due to low estrogen levels is topical estrogen therapy. These replace some of the hormone your body is no longer making. That helps relieve vaginal symptoms, but it doesn't put as much estrogen in your bloodstream as the hormone therapy you take in pills.
