“You like it wet and so do I.” –From the Beyonce song Blow
In many romantic movies, erotic novels, or pop songs, a woman is depicted as being so aroused naturally that she is fairly awash in her nether regions, without the use of lubricant. She is a hot, wet, and open vessel for the man, who, equally aroused, is as hard as a rock and ready to go. Both embrace and satiate their mutual desire within moments.
In reality, the sex act can be far less dramatic and take much more time and care. Sometimes, it can also require a few accessories. One core accessory may be lubricant (otherwise known as lube, personal lubricant, or gels).
Lubricant counteracts the natural vaginal dryness that many women experience as they mature (and this dryness may have nothing to do with a specific state of arousal). As famed adult toy store Toys in Babeland owner Claire Cavanah says, “People tend to think that great sex has to be like the stylized, multi-orgasmic love scenes in Hollywood blockbusters.
But real sex isn’t choreographed. You may need to rummage around in the dresser drawer for a condom, or go to the bathroom first, and so on. Likewise, it may be necessary, or preferable, to lube up first.”
She continues, “It’s hard to introduce any kind of product into sex, including lube.” This difficulty is unfortunate, because lube makes intercourse easier and more enjoyable for the woman, and often has numerous health benefits. There are many brands of lube for women to choose from, but most fall within the few product categories below:
Water-based Lubricant
These are safe to use with condoms made of latex and wash away with simple soap and water. However, they tend to evaporate quickly, so several applications may be necessary during a romantic encounter, particularly if it is prolonged.
Oil-based Lubricant
These are longer-lasting and lack the additives (some women are sensitive to these) water or silicone-based lubes often contain. However, oil-based lubes will degrade latex condoms and could lead to urinary tract infections.
Silicone Lubricant
These are long-lasting, don’t evaporate quickly, and can be used with latex condoms. However, they can cause damage to silicone sex toys and may leave a residue on you once everything is over.
Cannabidiol (CBD) Lubricant
With the widening legalization of cannabis, CBD has become a new lubricant that many couples find thrilling. “Using CBD lube can help with vaginal pain, with penetration, and can decrease or prevent irritation,” says Ph.D. Tammy Nelson, a certified sexologist.
At the same time, users should know that these lubes are largely unregulated, so actual results and side-effects may vary. Some CBD lubes are oil-based, and therefore carry all the downsides of any oil-based lubricant.
Getting Started With Your Lube
There should be nothing unusual or awkward about introducing lubricants into a relationship. They make sex more appealing and enjoyable for a couple.
Apart from that, their scents, textures and even application processes can heighten the overall romantic mood of an encounter. Even outside sex, lubricants can help with vaginal dryness, a healthy benefit in and of itself.
Additionally, there are lubricants which give either cooling or warm sensations when applied and this can make for a stimulating foreplay experience.
Packaging wise, lubricants can come in tube or squeeze bottle forms. There are also convenient, travel versions where they come in discreet, disposable packet form.
The options are straightforward; as long as you choose the lube that best suits your preferences and lifestyle, you will find this to be a smooth addition to your bedroom pleasures for you and your partner.
