Perhaps you have thought about using homemade lubricants. Either because there is a lubrication problem or because you consider that it will make the practice more satisfactory. For this reason, you should first know the benefits and risks of using this lubricant.
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Lubricants
Vaginal dryness is a widespread problem that affects many women. The causes vary, from infections such as candidiasis, for example, to states of stress that prevent proper lubrication of the vaginal area.
The consequence is the same: the sexual relationship will not be as pleasant as we would like. Therefore, using lubricants is advisable to facilitate a satisfying and painless sexual encounter safely.
The use of safe lubricants is always recommended to enhance sexual intercourse. To find out which is most suitable for you, consult your gynecologist.
On the other hand, the World Health Organization (WHO) has established a series of criteria about the characteristics and requirements that these products must meet, indicating that, in general terms:
- They should not affect the integrity of the condom.
- Its effect must be long-lasting.
Thus, the lubricants available on the market meet these and other requirements, so their use is safe. Now, does the same thing happen with homemade fats?
homemade lubricants
Many women prefer to ditch commercial lubricants and opt for home remedies, such as:
- Saliva;
- yogurts;
- aloe vera;
- Vaseline;
- cooking oil;
- body creams;
- infusions (chamomile, for example).
However, we must remember that although some may provide temporary lubrication that allows for more pleasurable sex, they are not without risk.
In addition, we must remember that the vaginal area is susceptible, according to studies. Inside is a vaginal microbiota that can quickly become unbalanced, causing even more problems. Therefore, we must remember that homemade lubricants can affect vaginal health.
Why consider homemade lubricants?
Many people generally look for lubricant options that do not cause irritation and discomfort during or after sexual intercourse. This is particularly interesting in women going through menopause since the hormonal changes at this stage make the female genitalia more delicate.
There are several commercial lubricants with chemicals that often cause damage to the intimate area. In this sense, it is advisable not to use those products that include the following substances:
- fragrances;
- glycerin;
- parabens;
- propylene glycol;
- silicone or Cyclomethicone.
The five most used homemade lubricants
1. Olive oil
Olive oil is a natural option widely used for sexual relations. In general, virgin or extra virgin forms are recommended to avoid harmful additives.
Its advantage is that it is inexpensive and lasts longer than water-based lubricants. However, it cannot be used with a condom or sex toy. Also, care must be taken as it can stain the sheets and the bed.
2. Virgin coconut oil
Coconut oil is a homemade lubricant that is usually well tolerated during vaginal penetration. In the same way, its smell and taste are an additional benefit for the practice of oral sex. It is not recommended to use refined coconut oils, as they can be irritating to the skin. Like olive oil, it makes the use of condoms ineffective.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe vera gel offers a calming and anti-inflammatory effect on the skin and mucous membranes, which are functional during sexual relations. For this reason, it could be a good option for women with sensitive genitalia.
In addition, this homemade lubricant has the advantage that it can be used with condoms without causing damage or making it ineffective.
If you use commercial aloe vera, avoid those gels that contain alcohol due to their irritating effect.
4. Vitamin E Oil
This oil is used as a lubricant and moisturizer in the intimate area. It is not aggressive for the skin and occasionally causes irritation or discomfort. However, being an oil, it compromises the integrity of condoms.
5. Avocado oil
Avocado oil offers advantages similar to virgin olive and coconut oil. This homemade lubricant is a moisturizer and hydrator, lasts longer than water-based lubricants, and can be used during oral sex. In addition, this option has a neutral, almost invisible smell and taste.
Risks of using homemade lubricants
Moisturizers and lubricants are not the same.
Many women opt for moisturizing body creams thinking that their texture may promote penetration or sex without discomfort. However, this is a severe mistake.
Indeed, moisturizing creams are usually quickly absorbed by the skin, so the lubrication will last for a minimum, after which irritation may even appear. In addition, given the chemical composition of this type of cream, it can affect the integrity of the condom, damaging the latex and causing it to break.
They can cause infections.
Saliva, for example, can encourage bacteria from the mouth to reach the most intimate area if we use it as a lubricant. In the same way, you should consider that using other homemade fats, such as yogurt, eggs, or cooking oil, may not be eliminated after sexual intercourse. Indeed, despite taking care of subsequent hygiene, remains may remain that cause infection.
They can cause the condom to break.
Condoms are usually made with latex, which, although resistant, can be negatively affected by using other products. Thus, while commercial lubricants ensure the integrity of the condom, we cannot be sure about homemade fats. For example, cooking oil or body creams can cause the latex to deteriorate and the condom to break.
On the other hand, Vaseline, well-known and used as a lubricant, presents numerous risks. Not only is it made from petroleum, but it can also cause condoms to break and even cause bacterial vaginosis.
Can affect sperm
Commercial lubricants can affect sperm, so they are not usually recommended for couples trying to have children. Indeed, its composition and chemical characteristics (pH, osmolarity) can become toxic to sperm.
Fortunately, there are also specific lubricants on the market that promote the survival and vitality of sperm.
In the case of homemade lubricants, we cannot be sure that their composition or chemical characteristics are not counterproductive for fertilization. In addition, its texture is usually quite thick, making it difficult for the sperm to reach the egg. Therefore, homemade lubricants can hinder fertilization and are not recommended for couples looking to have children.
Beware of allergic reactions.
We have previously indicated that the vagina is a susceptible area. In this sense, we must be cautious before applying a home or natural remedy in this area. Indeed, some allergic reactions may begin that causes more significant discomfort, discomfort, and irritation.
For this reason, we should always consult a doctor before applying remedies of this type in such a delicate area.
Don’t forget to consider all the available lubricant options.
In short, homemade lubricants are cheaper and more natural than commercial ones. However, the health of the genitals and the risks that its use may entail must be considered. Remember that a wide range of options are available on the market, and remember that natural forms can compromise the integrity of condoms.