What are lubricants and moisturizers?
Lubricants
A lubricant is a gel or liquid applied when you are having sex to reduce friction. It is especially helpful if you are experiencing vaginal dryness and/or pain during sex.
Moisturizers
Just like you might use a moisturiser for your dry skin, you can use a vaginal moisturiser, on your vulva and inside your vagina if you experience vaginal dryness which can happen when you’re breastfeeding or going though menopause.
- Certain medications can also make your vagina drier.
- A moisturizer can help increase moisture and elasticity in your vagina and vulva.
1. Water-based
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For example: Good Clean Love, Pjur, Yes, Sliquid H2O, Slippery stuff, Floravi
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Avoid the ones that include these ingredients: Parabenes, Propylene glycol or Propanediol, Glycerin, Antiseptics (ex : nonoxynol-9, chlorexhydine, polyquaternium-15), perfumes, artificial flavors, essential oils
2. Silicon-based
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For example: Uberlube, Pjur Sliquid Silk, Durex, Silver, Floravi
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Do not use if you are using sexual toys made of silicon or a pessary as it can break down the silicon and ruin the toy/pessary
3. Oil-based
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For example: Yes, Coconut oil, Olive oil
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Do not use if you are using a condom
You might have to try a few brands before you find one that you enjoy.
What type of lubricant to use when trying to become pregnant?
Moisturizers can be used in combination with a lubricant. Depending on the brand, you apply it daily or a couple of times a week, ideally at night before you go to bed. Follow the instructions in the package.
Brands such as:
Where to buy moisturizers
Moisturizers can be bought:
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In pharmacies
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Online
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In sex shops
If you have any questions or need some advice, ask your doctor or nurse to be seen by a physiotherapist who has advanced training in pelvic health problems. There might be one in your community.
Or you can contact the pelvic health team directly.
