Sexual lubricants

by Karen Schroeder, MS, RD

What they are

Lubricants are substances designed to ease dryness, prevent friction, and make sexual intercourse more comfortable and enjoyable for both partners.

There are several products available, including:

  • Aqualube
  • AstroGlide
  • K-Y Jelly
  • Liquid silk
  • Moist Again
  • Probe
  • Slippery Stuff
  • Surgilube
  • Wet

What they are used for

  • To treat vaginal dryness, often associated with:
     
  • Menopause
  • Post-partum period, due to the hormonal changes following childbirth and breast-feeding
  • Use of oral contraceptives
  • Strenuous exercise
  • Some medications, including leuprolide, danazol, tamoxifen, antihistamines, ulcer medications, antidepressants, blood pressure medications
     
  • To enhance sexual pleasure
  • To make condom use more enjoyable

How they work

Lubricants provide moisture to reduce friction during intercourse and can increase sensation and comfort for both partners.

Precautions

Do not use any of the following as lubricants:

  • Petroleum-based products (Vaseline, mineral oil, baby oil) - they cause the latex in condoms to break down, increasing the risk for sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and pregnancy.
  • Moisture creams and lotions -these products can interfere with the body's pH levels and cause irritation or infection.
  • Food -this can cause a yeast infection.
  • Industrial lubricants, such as WD-40 -not made for human use, and may be dangerous.

Check the ingredients

Many lubricants include nonoxynol-9. This is a type of detergent that has been shown to kill viruses, including the HIV and herpes viruses. It is a common ingredient, used in everything from baby wipes to contraceptive foams, but it can be irritating to sensitive skin. This ingredient may also have a medicinal flavor.