Sex is a beautiful, fun and enjoyable thing. Well, ideally. Sometimes, sex can be boring, mundane, or even downright painful – especially for women.
When aroused, women produce a “natural lubricant” that makes penetration easy and pleasurable. But women can also experience vaginal dryness for many different reasons, ranging from medication to hormones to just simply not being in the right state of mind for it.
Because dry intercourse isn’t fun for either partner, using a lubricating product is a must for many sexually active women. The benefits? Less friction, more fun, and better orgasms.
RELATED: Seven ways to put an end to vaginal dryness
What Can I Use As Lube?
Vaginas are notoriously delicate, so it’s important to use products that are safe and actually formulated for vaginal use. Otherwise, you’re putting yourself at risk of getting infections – and trust us, a yeast infection is not worth the time and money you save from using whatever’s at hand.
All sexual lubricants can fit into one of three categories, depending on what it’s made of: oil-based, water-based, and silicone-based. We’re going to focus on oil-based lubricants.
Oil-based lubricants are usually a great choice for people with sensitivities to the ingredients often used in other types of lubes. They don’t dissolve in water, making them the best option for sex in the shower. Plus, they’re long-lasting and moisturising. But oil-based lubes degrade latex, and therefore shouldn’t be used with condoms.
Coconut Oil As Lubricant
We know and love coconut oil because of its versatility. What is coconut oil used for? Or, more accurately, what isn’t it used for?
Thanks to its antifungal and moisturising properties, coconut oil is often used as a home remedy for troubled skin, dry hair, and various other health conditions. And now, people are starting to see its use in the bedroom as well.
Because of concerns over the side effects of some of the ingredients (e.g. parabens, glycerin, etc.) in most commercially-available lubricants, there’s been a clamour for organic, safe, and cheap alternatives. One of the most popular substitutes for synthetic lube is coconut oil.
Coconut Oil As Lube FAQ
Is coconut oil lubricant safe for men and for women?
Medical experts have said that coconut oil is not only quite safe, but is also recommended often by ob-gyn’s and clinical sexologists. Plus, it can add a whole new (and tasty) dimension to oral sex.
However, there are still a few cases in which it’s best to use another type of lubricant. Each vagina has its unique flora, and yours may not agree with coconut oil – and may even put you at risk of getting an infection. And if you have a coconut allergy, you should obviously stay away.
Is it okay for pregnant women to use coconut oil lubricant?
Many women wonder if coconut oil is pregnancy-safe. The answer is: possibly, but it’s not worth the risk. There aren’t enough studies proving that coconut oil is 100% safe for pregnant women to use. And since coconut oil can cause infections in some women, it’s better to be safe than sorry and opt for a water or silicone-based lubricant instead.
Is it safe to use coconut oil as anal lube?
Anal sex is slightly different than vaginal intercourse because the anus doesn’t produce its own natural lubricants. This means you’ll need a lube that’s slippery and long-lasting. Because oil-based lubricants like coconut oil don’t dissolve as quickly as saliva or water-based lubes, they actually make a great option for anal lube.
Is coconut oil lube compatible with condoms?
Like all oil-based lubes, coconut oil should not be used with latex condoms. Oils can break down latex rubber, rendering the condom ineffective – putting you at risk of pregnancy and STIs. You can still use coconut oil with non-latex condoms, like polyurethane condoms, or if you’re using another form of contraception, like birth control pills. Just remember that non-barrier methods only prevent pregnancy; you can still contract STIs
Are there any risks or dangers when using coconut oil lube?
Besides taking care not to use coconut oil with condoms, there are a few other things you need to keep in mind. One is that coconut oil might not be the best choice for you if you’re prone to vaginal infections. Because coconut oil is antibacterial and antifungal, it could potentially disrupt the delicate pH balance of your vagina.
Another is that you need to take care of the kind of coconut oil you use. Some manufacturers add sugars, additives, and preservatives in their products, and all of these could do your vagina harm.
If you’re going to use coconut oil lube, stick to unrefined, virgin, or even extra virgin coconut oil. And take a sniff test, if possible, to make sure there aren’t any added fragrances or flavours!
Lastly, use only as much as needed. Too much oil can build up in your vagina, which could promote bad bacteria growth. And definitely wash up after sex to remove any oily residue!
How do I use coconut oil as lubricant?
Do a patch test. Dab a little bit of coconut oil on your skin (like in your inner arm or crook of the elbow) and wait 24 hours. If you are allergic to the product, you will notice itching, reddening, flushing, burning, or other symptoms.
If you’re not allergic, you can use the coconut oil as lube. Add a little bit of coconut oil on the vagina, penis, fingers, or sex toy. Spread it around until you’ve got good coverage. Add more when necessary, but be careful not to go overboard!
Coconut Oil Lube Alternatives
Pacific Organics Certified Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
Nutiva Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
Niulife Certified Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
WOO Coconut Love Oil
WOO More Play, $USD 24.99 ($AUD 36.35)
Conclusion
Coconut oil is a popular natural personal lubricant that many women swear by. But even if it’s safe for most people, it’s definitely not for everyone. Always consult with your ob-gyn first before trying out a natural lubricant – your vagina will thank you in the long run.
RELATED: You’ll be shocked at what a lack of sex will do to your body
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
