- Written By: J.S. Metzker Erdemir
- Edited By: W. Everett
- Last Modified Date: 10 May 2012
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2003-2012 Conjecture Corporation
Lubricant jelly is a clear, gelatinous glycerin liquid used to moisten skin and make it slippery. It can be either water-based or silicone-based. Lubricant jellies are often used by doctors to ease insertion of rectal thermometers or other instruments. They can also be used during sexual intercourse to replace or enhance natural lubrication, and women often use them to relieve ongoing vaginal dryness.
Medical professionals generally prefer water-based lubricant jelly because it is sterile and easy to clean up. It doesn't react with latex, as some silicone-based lubricants do, so it can be used safely with latex gloves. Additionally, it is biologically inert which means it doesn't affect tests results if, for example, a doctor uses jelly to lubricate a speculum before performing a Pap smear.
Lubricant jelly is often used during sexual intercourse to prevent soreness and tearing of sensitive tissues due to insufficient natural lubrication. Decreased natural lubrication during intercourse can be caused by alcohol or recreational drug use, medications such as antihistamines, hormonal changes, or lack of arousal in the woman. The jelly can be applied to the penis, anus, or vagina.
Silicone jellies stay moist for longer, but might be difficult to wash off and can stain sheets or clothing. Water-based jellies do not stain and are easy to rinse off, but they can dry out more quickly and require additional applications or reactivation with another liquid. Water-based jellies are safe to use with latex protection, making them preferable to oil and petroleum-based products such as massage oils and lotions which break down latex and reduce its effectiveness as a barrier. Some silicone-based jellies are suitable for use with latex as well, though users should check for latex safety certification before using a silicone-based jelly. Both
Clear and unscented personal lubricants are available over the counter. Other variations are also available, such as flavored, colored, or scented lubricant jelly. Some jellies contain a warming ingredient, usually capsaicin which is derived from chili peppers. These other types of jellies are also safe to use with latex, but can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people.
Lubricant jelly is also used to treat vaginal dryness. Many women experience vaginal dryness caused by menopause, pregnancy, lactation, or medications. Since the vagina is a mucous-membrane, ongoing dryness can be quite uncomfortable. Dryness can also alter the pH of the vagina and make a woman more susceptible to yeast infections. Over-the-counter lubrication jelly may be applied internally and externally as needed, and there are brands of jelly available specifically to treat ongoing vaginal dryness.
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strawCake
Post 6 |
I had no idea that so many things could cause you to need a lubricant. Who knew antihistamines could dry you out "down there" as well?
Anyway, a few people have mentioned store brand lubricant glide, and I have to say, I think this is a great idea. I remember seeing Astroglide at the store awhile ago and thinking it was ridiculously expensive. Store brand products tend to be a lot cheaper than name brand, so this could be a good way to save a few dollars. |
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starrynight
Post 5 |
@Azuza - Good point. I actually have a friend who got pregnant that way!
I also wanted to bring up the subject of allergies and lubricant for intercourse. Obviously having an allergic reaction during this act (and in the area of your body) is no fun. But some lubricants have all kind of chemicals in them. Especially the warming lubricants or the ones with a taste/smell.
I would recommend that before you use a lubricant during intercourse, test it out on another area of your skin. That way you can see if you're allergic to it without learning the hard way. |
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Azuza
Post 4 |
@Kat919 - A lubricating jelly that makes it easier to get pregnant? Now I've heard everything! Although, I'm not trying to get pregnant, so I guess why would I know that?
Anyway, please allow me to get on my soapbox for a second. Like the article said, if you don't want to get pregnant, and you're only using condoms as your birth control, pay attention to the kind of lubricant you buy.
As the article said, some types can weaken condoms. So instead of using lotion or something, buy a lubricant that is specifically meant to be used during sex. |
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Kat919
Post 3 |
@MrsWinslow - I used to use a glycerin-free lubricant for just that reason, but then I started trying to get pregnant. Most common lubricants are pretty hostile to sperm! That's not to say that they are a birth control method - they most certainly are not - just that they are not helpful for couples who may be trying to overcome low fertility.
There's a special brand, Pre Seed lubricant, which is specially designed for couples who are trying to conceive. It is more sperm-friendly. They carry it at my local Walgreen's but I think you can also order it online if you have trouble finding it in the stores. It's one of those hidden fertility secrets that doctors don't usually mention, like that taking antihistamines can make it harder to get pregnant! I learned a lot from reading the book "Taking Charge of Your Fertility." |
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MrsWinslow
Post 2 |
One thing to be aware of with personal lubricant jelly is that they can affect the environment of your vagina. Most water-based brands, like regular K-Y, contain glycerin. Using a glycerin lubricant has a similar effect to eating a high-sugar diet: it increases your chances of getting a yeast infection.
Many women will find that it's not really a problem for them, but if you are prone to yeast infections and you do regularly use a lubricant, you might want to switch to one that's glycerin-free. I think Astroglide is like that and you can even get store brands without glycerin! (CVS makes one, for instance, that is very reasonably priced.) Can't hurt to try it, might help. |
