Sex Lubricant Resource Guide

Why use a Lube?
Using a lubricant can enhance pleasure, and when used with a condom, lubricants can help to protect against the transmission of STD's and pregnancy. Lubrication supplied by the body can sometimes be insufficient. Breast-feeding, pregnancy, pelvic surgery, diabetes, maturity, and stress are a few factors that can affect natural lubrication. Using lubricant on the inside and outside of the condom intensifies sensation and allows for greater movement and sensation for both partners. Lubricating the condom will also help keep the condom from breaking as it reduces the stress to the condom. Use lube because it is fun and you soon may agree that wetter is better!

How much lube should I use?
The amount of lube that you use is a personal preference. As long as you are comfortable and slippery enough, use as much or as little as you want. When using lube on the inside of a condom, a drop or two will suffice. Using more inside the condom may cause it to slip off.

What is the difference between Oil-Based, Water-based and Silicone-based?
First and foremost, Oil-Based lubricants should never be used with a latex condom. Oil breaks down the condom in a matter of moments and increases the risk of condom breakage and fluid transmission. Water-Based lubricants are safe to use with all condoms and can be reactivated with water or body fluids. So if you dry out, just add water. Silicone-Based lubricants are not only safe to use with all condoms, but, because they are not made of water, do not dry out. These lubes can be used underwater or for romping in the sheets.

How do I clean up?
Most lubricants are non-staining. Check the label if you are worried about your sheets, or carpet or car seats…Lubes can get pretty messy, and can leave you feeling sticky if you like to use a lot. Our suggestion is to hop in the shower with your partner and extend your intimacy to one of life's most personal rituals, grooming. Using soap and water, lubricants will wash away and you will both be pleasantly clean and maybe ready for another go.

Basic Lube Ingredients
Water-Based lubricants are made up of about 90% deionized water in which a glycerin (an emollient), a polymer (for the slip slide) and an antibacterial agent are added. Some lubes include Nonoxynol-9 (see below), and others use Benzalkonium Chloride as a Spermicide and many have added flavor or scent. The silicone lubricants are made from Cyclomethicone, Dimethiconol, Silicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E Acetate). Oil based lubricants are petroleum based and should never be used with latex.

Should I use a lubricant with spermicide or without?
Once again, it is a personal choice. If you are using a condom as the only defense against pregnancy or STD's it may be a good idea to try a spermicidally loaded lube. However, do not use a spermicidal lube without a condom because even though laboratory studies have shown that Nonoxynol-9 has killed STDs in test tubes, in real life tests have been inconsistent and unreliable. Some people experience burning or itching sensations when using condoms or lubricants with N-9. If this should happen, stop using the product and return to a non-spermicidal lubricant.