Lube 101: Why You Need It and Which One to Buy

Topic: Sexual wellness

There is a stigma that if you need lubricant, you aren’t “turned on enough.” false. Arousal is mental. Lubrication is physical. You can be mentally ready, but if your estrogen is low (postpartum, breastfeeding, menopause, or just dehydrated), your body might lag behind.

Lube reduces micro-tears, prevents infection, and makes everything better. But picking the wrong one can cause BV.

1. Water-Based (The Standard)

• Pros: Safe with condoms. Easy to clean up. Rarely irritating.
• Cons: Dries out quickly. Requires re-application.
• Look For: “Paraben-Free” and “Glycerin-Free.” (Glycerin is sugar -> Yeast infection risk).

2. Silicone-Based (The Slick One)

• Pros: Lasts forever. Great for shower sex (doesn’t wash off). Silky feel.
• Cons: Stains sheets. Do not use with silicone toys (it melts them).

3. Oil-Based (The Natural Choice)

• Pros: Coconut oil, Olive oil. Moisturizing.
• Cons: DESTROYS CONDOMS. Oil eats latex. Only use oil if you are not using condoms for protection.

The Rule

If you are trying to conceive: Buy “Fertility Friendly” lube (like Pre-Seed). Standard lubes can slow down sperm.

Make it standard equipment, not a rescue measure.