{"id":18191,"date":"2020-09-11T13:05:17","date_gmt":"2020-09-11T11:05:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.intimina.com\/blog\/?p=18191"},"modified":"2022-09-08T10:29:41","modified_gmt":"2022-09-08T08:29:41","slug":"lube-101","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.intimina.com\/blog\/lube-101\/","title":{"rendered":"Lube 101"},"content":{"rendered":"

This article was medically fact-checked by Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Dr. Shree Datta<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

Using lube for the first time can be intimidating or come with a whole load of questions. Most of us were not taught in sex ed class how to utilize it in our sex lives, and what to look for when investing in a new product.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Well, we\u2019re here today to demystify your lubricant questions and get you feeling confident and sure of the choices you make regarding your sex life.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

It\u2019s Totally Normal<\/b><\/p>\n

Just to clear the air, we need to first talk about the unnecessary stigmas that can come with the lube conversation. It\u2019s normal for people to feel shy or less than confident about choosing to use it because of a weird societal pressure that vaginas should be able to self lubricate at will.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Well, vaginas come in all different variations, and for many people, having a handy dandy moisturizer to turn to can make the difference between a pleasurable sexual experience, and a painful one.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Getting \u201cwet\u201d is not an automatic reaction for all vaginas when they <\/span>get horny<\/span><\/a>. Just because you feel turned on, does not necessarily mean your body will react by lubricating, or you may just want some extra reinforcements, because why not?!<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s also important to keep in mind that you may find you need lube more at different points in your cycle or lifetime – like after <\/span>menopause<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

There is no shame in using lube!\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

It\u2019s Awesome for Solo Time<\/b><\/p>\n

Lubricant is not just for partnered sex. Incorporating it into your self-love sessions can help you feel more empowered and bring new waves of pleasure into your days.<\/span><\/p>\n

Whether you\u2019re using your hands or a toy, lube is an awesome addition to your self-care routine.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If you have the time to drop into a little solo date, try easing into your pleasure session by slowly massaging the lube into your vulva and surrounding areas. You may find that you like it on other places than just your vulva, like your breasts, inner thighs, and stomach. It\u2019s your body to explore!<\/span><\/p>\n

Do Your Research<\/b><\/p>\n

While we\u2019re on the <\/span>masturbation<\/span><\/a> topic, if you\u2019re a fan of toys – with or without a partner, it\u2019s important to know which lubes are safe for your products of choice.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Sex toys come in all different shapes and materials. From glass to crystal, to wood, and silicone – if you\u2019re curious, it\u2019s out there.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Not all lubricants, however, are safe for all sex toys.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Oil-based lubricants can be awesome for glass, ceramic, and metal toys, however, it could potentially break down silicone or rubber toys. Opt for a <\/span>personal moisturizer<\/span><\/a> that\u2019s been tried and tested against your favorite pleasure products. Water-based lubes made with simple ingredients like Aloe Vera are a great option.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The same logic goes for using condoms. Oil-based lubes have the potential to break down latex condoms, which could cause them to break. That\u2019s probably not a risk you want to take!<\/span><\/p>\n

Body Safe is Best<\/b><\/p>\n

Remember that your vagina is a sensitive, porous membrane, and anything that goes in there may leak into your bloodstream. Not to mention some of your lube may end up in your or your partner\u2019s mouth. All this to say, pay attention to the ingredients in your bottle.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Even when looking at natural-appearing water-based products, not all ingredients are created equal. Make sure to look for products that are free from glycerin – which can strip skin of its natural moisture, and parabens – potentially harmful chemicals that are used as preservatives.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

You may even want to look for lubes that are made from all or mostly organic ingredients. This is totally a personal decision!<\/span><\/p>\n

Whatever lube you pick, make sure to do a patch test on the inside of your wrist before applying to your genitals. Just in case you\u2019re sensitive or allergic to it. This is especially important when trying a new product.<\/span><\/p>\n

Queer Folx Love It<\/b><\/p>\n

Lube is not just for hetero couples. Or couples at all for that matter.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adding lube into your sexual product toybox is an awesome way to amp up your sex life, no matter who that\u2019s with.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It Makes Anal Awesome<\/b><\/p>\n

Whether you are an anal novice or expert. Using lube is almost essential in anal sex to prevent tearing, and enhance pleasure.<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking to explore the backdoor? You can check out our <\/span>anal sex tips here<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

You Can Find it in Your Kitchen<\/b><\/p>\n

You don\u2019t have to go out and buy some fancy new products. You may have a perfect lube option in your kitchen cabinet.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Not only is coconut oil awesome as an all over lotion, it\u2019s safe to use on your vulva and inside your vagina as well!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As we mentioned before, oil-based lube is not compatible with all sex toys and condoms, so be mindful of what you\u2019re using coconut oil with.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s Not Just for Sex<\/b><\/p>\n

Lube can be a helpful part of your vaginal care routine outside of sex.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Feminine moisturizers like <\/span>Intimina<\/span><\/a>, can be used for normal dryness to prevent discomfort and chafing. It can also be used with a <\/span>menstrual cup<\/span><\/a> to ease insertion.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Certain cups like the <\/span>Ziggy Cup<\/span><\/a>, are designed to so you can have sex with it in, why not throw a little lube in there as well to spice things up!<\/span><\/p>\n

Come one, come all, there\u2019s a lube out there for everyone!<\/b><\/p>\n

\n

Facts checked by:<\/h3>\n

Dr. Shree Datta<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"Dr.<\/p>\n

Dr. Shree Datta is a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in London, specialising in women’s health including all menstrual problems such as fibroids and endometriosis. Dr. Shree is a keen advocate for patient choice, having written numerous articles and books to promote patient and clinician information. Her vision resonates with INTIMINA, with the common goals of demystifying periods and delivering the best possible care to her patients<\/p>\n

Medical<\/a><\/strong> | LinkedIn<\/a><\/strong> | Twitter<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Written by:<\/h3>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

This article was medically fact-checked by Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Dr. Shree Datta. Using lube for the first time can be intimidating or come with a whole load of questions.…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":24,"featured_media":18192,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false},"categories":[4],"tags":[390],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nLube 101 - How To Use Lube For Sex or Masturbation<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Using lube for the first time can be intimidating or come with a whole load of questions. 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