8 Types of Lubricants Every Couple Should Know About

Healthy women experience vaginal dryness due to several reasons which vary from changes during the menstrual cycle to breastfeeding to menopause. Sexual intercourse as well as masturbation can be painful or less pleasurable because of vaginal dryness. Using a lubricant during these times can give a more pleasurable and satisfying experience. Also with ageing, the time taken by the body to produce adequate lubrication may increase.

Lubricants can help in reducing this time period to ensure a woman’s body is ready for sexual intercourse along with her mind.

Different types of lubricants are available in the market to satisfy the unique needs of every individual. Some of the most common varieties are:

1. Warming Lubricants

Warming lubricants add sensation during sex, especially when used over a condom. However, care should be taken to use it sparingly, and limit it to a dime sized amount. The warming sensation can cause discomfort if used excessively as women’s genitalia are more sensitive.

2. Water-based Lubricants

Most of the lubricants available in the market belong to this category. This type is best suited for those with sensitive skin. According to Dr. Debby Herbenick, PhD, author of Because It Feels Good: A Woman’s Guide to Sexual Pleasure and Satisfaction, water-based lubricants are the gold standard in lubricants. To be doubly sure that the lubricant does not contain any irritants, try to avoid products containing propylene glycol or chlorhexidine.

3. Flavoured Lubricants

Flavored Lubricants can be a fun way to overcome inhibitions towards oral sex. For the best experience, the lubricant should be great tasting and sugar free. People with diabetes should be careful to choose lubricants without sugar as many of them have sugar content. The taste for a flavour varies from person to person and also with brands.

4. Oil-Based Lubricants

These can provide good lubrication with a lower slickly feel. Olive oil is sometimes recommended by some doctors as a lubricant. Oil based lubricants are best used with polyurethane condoms, as it might cause latex condoms to tear. Also, these are more suited for men and not very ideal for women.

5. Silicon based Lubricants

Silicon is very moisturising and does not break down in water. This long lasting feature of it makes it ideal to use in a shower. The lubricant carries a hazard warning to be careful if spilt on floor as it can be very slippery.

6. All-Natural Lubricants

According to Dr. Herbenick, it might be good to have a natural lubricant, because fewer the additives contained in it, lesser are the chances for irritation.

7. Male and Female Lubricants

Some companies manufacture separate lubricants for men and women and at times these come in combo packages. Many lubricants can be used by both genders. At the same time, using a new, different combination can increase anticipation and add excitement.

8. Homemade Lubricants

Care should be taken while experimenting with homemade lubricants. Some of these might be unsafe and can cause severe irritation. Lubrication using peanut oil can cause latex condoms to break. Many of the food products can cause infections and are unhygienic.