You’re probably wondering why you need lube if your vagina is already a self-lubricating sex machine.
While it’s not an absolute necessity, having some lube handy can fulfill a wide range of needs. Whether you’re looking to try something new in bed (like anal), or whether you’re facing the seemingly eternal trouble of vaginal dryness – lube may just be your favorite sexual comrade.
However, before you go stock up, you should know that weeding your way through all the options in the market won’t be an easy task. So, here are some essential lube facts for you to keep in mind, to help you make a more informed decision about what kind suits your needs the best.
10 Essential Lube Facts All Women Need To Know
1. Silicone-Based Lubes Feel Wonderful
This kind of lube is a super soft formula that is usually a delight for every woman’s lady bits. They last long, so you don’t need to keep reapplying it as things between the sheets get steamier. Furthermore, most silicone-based lubes are hypoallergenic, so it’s ideal for women with sensitive skin. You could use them with latex condoms – and if you’re in the mood for moving the activity to your shower, this makes for an excellent choice.
2. Silicone-Based Lubes Are Not Sex Toy- Friendly
Do not use silicone-based lube with sex toys, as it will cause the material to break down over time. Also, these lubes are not compatible with fabrics, so be extra careful to keep your favorite clothes or sheets away when you’re getting down to business.
3. Water-Based Lubes Are Latex-Friendly
Not only are they safe to use with latex condoms and sex toys, but certain glycerin-free makes can even leave your skin feeling deliciously soft and smooth! They’re also very easy to clean up and remove so they won’t spoil your covers.
4. However, Water-Based Lubes Are Not Long-Lasting
This kind of lube doesn’t last as long as the silicone-based variety, so it may start feeling a little tacky in the middle of sex. Using some saliva or water, however, can easily bring back the slippery goodness to keep your ride going smooth.
5. Oil-Based Lubes Are Not Always Skin-Friendly
If you’re someone who feels safer with an all-natural option, oil-based lubes are your best bet. Some of these are so safe to use, you can probably even eat them. While coconut oil and olive oil are safe to use, it’s good to practice some amount of precaution while using things like baby oil, body lotion, or petroleum jelly. These products contain ingredients that may stir up an uncomfortable itch in your vagina.
6. Also, Never Use Oil-Based Lubes With Latex
Oil-based lubes are not sex-toy friendly and will definitely ruin your bed sheets. Beware of using these with latex condoms, as they will eventually tear down the fabric and increase chances pregnancy.
7. Lube Won’t Interfere With Pregnancy
While the consistency of lube may lead to decreased sperm motility, there is no evidence that using lube will foil your baby-making plans. On the contrary, lube pushes you to have more sex, and this will only increase your chances of getting pregnant. Just make sure the lube you choose doesn’t contain spermicide.
8. Lube Is An Absolute Must For Anal Sex
Unlike your vagina, your butt-hole cannot lubricate itself. Therefore, if you’re going to be trying anal sex, do not forget to bring your own grease. Also, since your anus will soak lube up much faster than your vagina, remember to use plenty. Not only will this ease penetration, but will also make the experience much more satisfying for both you and your partner.
Do not skip the lube because you’re using lubricated condoms. Trust us, it’s not going to be even remotely fun. Also, remember to avoid oil-based lube if you’re going for condoms, or you may run the risk of wearing down the latex and exposing yourself to some serious infections.
Invest in some good water-based or silicone-based lube, even if it’s a little expensive. The latter is a better option since it won’t dry up that easily and you won’t have to keep stopping for reapplications. The only drawback with this is – you have to stay away from silicone sex toys and cleaning up after sex may be a bit of a chore. But hey, if the sex is good, it’s well worth the effort!
9. Avoid Anal Lubes That Contain Anesthetics
You will come across lubes that are specially designed for anal sex. Some of these will contain anesthetics that will temporarily deaden the sensors in your body. This way, these lubes promise to make the experience of anal sex less painful. If you’re someone who is absolutely paranoid about the pain, you may find yourself reaching out for one of these.
Don’t.
Pain is your body’s way of telling you that something isn’t going quite right. If anal sex is painful to you, numbing yourself is not the solution. Instead, talk to your partner or visit a doctor to see how you can solve the problem.
10. There Are A Few Application Tips Worth Trying
There is really no wrong way to apply lube. Squeeze out some onto your hand, slap it onto your privates where you need maximum lubrication and you’re pretty much sorted. However, you can definitely apply it better to maximize your pleasure.
- P-In-The-V Sex: Instead of slathering your vagina with lube, put some directly onto your penis. As your partner inserts himself into you, the lube will spread and distribute itself. Also, a little goes a long way. Using too much lube can make things unpleasantly sloppy and can do away with the sense of friction that is so essential for sexual satisfaction.
- When Using A Condom: Apply some lube both on the inside and on the outside of the condom. Remember to put some into the semen reservoir at the tip of the condom as well. This will remove any kind of friction between the penis and the condom and will make things more pleasurable for the man. A gentle reminder: Stick to water-based or silicone-based lube when using a condom.
- Anal Sex: If you’re doing it without the condom, apply lube directly onto the penis before insertion. On the other hand, if you are using rubbers, use the same method of application as mentioned above – apply the lube both on the inside and on the outside. The only thing you need to keep in mind while having anal sex is – the more generous you are with lube, the better your experience will be!
