How to use lubricants for better and smoother sex

Sex can be a wonderful experience, but not so much if you tend to experience vaginal dryness. It could make penetration uncomfortable and rough. If there is sufficient foreplay and the woman feels aroused, her body will naturally produce enough lubricant on its own. However, this may not always be the case. Natural vaginal lubrication often takes time, and even then, it might not be sufficient. In such a situation, lube comes to your rescue. A sex lubricant really can transform your sex life. It is, in fact, not just about reducing the pain and friction, but also about increasing the pleasure quotient during the sex session. So, are you ready to know how to use lube?

Health Shots got in touch with Dr Surabhi Siddhartha, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, at Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar, Mumbai, to understand how using lube can improve sexual intercourse and how to use it properly.

Dr Siddhartha says, “Lube lowers friction and hence the danger of harm during sex. When more lubricant is used with a condom, intercourse can seem more natural. Ejaculation can also be delayed with the use of lubrication. Furthermore, lubrication reduces the likelihood that condoms will break or slip off, boosting your protection against sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as HIV.”

How to use lubes?

Lubes are basically a liquid or gel that people use during sex to reduce friction and increase pleasure. It doesn’t have to be the last option when things become a little dry, you can use it at any moment during sex, and it also comes in different flavours and may induce sensations such as a warming or cooling effect wherever it’s applied.

Here’s how to use lube:

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Step 1: Lubricants should not be administered to the genitals directly. So squeeze a tiny quantity into your hand.
Step 2: Warm it by pressing your fingers together.
Step 3: Caress your partner or yourself with your greased fingertips. Avoid putting it inside. It is only for external use.

Things to keep in mind while using lube during sex

Now that you know how to use it, let’s go through some things you should keep in mind while using it.

1. How much lube to use during sex

Dr Siddhartha says, “You can use as much lubrication as you like on your or your partner’s vagina, penis, or anus. Communicating your preferences with your partner might help you decide where and how much lubrication to use.” Also, apply the lube only where needed, not internally.

2. Use non-oil-based lubricants with condom

If you’re using condoms or a sex toy, use non-oil-based lubrication on the latex condom, dental dam, diaphragm, or sex toy (and avoid silicone-based lube with silicone toys).

Also read: Looking to buy lube? This ultimate guide will help you make an informed choice

3. Check if you’re allergic to ingredients in the lube

Some people are allergic to or sensitive to lubricant substances such as glycerin or parabens. If you experience itching, burning, or irritation after using lubricant, stop using it and try another product. There are several hypoallergenic and natural lubes available on the market, so look for them.

Benefits of using lube during sex

Here’s how using lube can be a game changer for your sex life:

1. It reduces the risk of friction

Lube will assist minimise friction, making sex more smooth. This can make sex more enjoyable and ease any discomfort caused by dryness or friction during sex. If you’re suffering from vaginal dryness because of hormonal changes caused by menopause, childbirth, or nursing, lube, in this situation, will make sex more pleasant by providing lubrication.

2. It makes anal intercourse smooth

“Anal discomfort or ripping may occur if you are engaging in anal intercourse because, unlike your vagina, anal can’t provide natural lubrication. Hence, a lack of lubricant around the anal can make sex rough. Lubricating the anus and penis, or any other item being inserted, will aid to lubricate the area and make penetration more pleasant and satisfying,” says Dr Siddhartha.

3. It makes arousal easy

Arousal is important to get an orgasm! If there are problems like painful sex and a lack of arousal, lube can be quite helpful. It can help a woman avoid all forms of dryness and irritation. They provide protection from cuts and make penetration easier.

4. It reduces the risk of STI

During intercourse, there’s a risk of condom tearing. However, applying lubricants lowers this risk by lowering the likelihood of dryness and friction. This also means a lower probability of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Also read: Out of lubes? Don’t even think about using these 7 things as substitutes

5. It can be used during masturbation

There is no set way to use lubrication; it can be used by anybody and everyone, regardless of gender, age or sexuality. Additionally, you can apply it and enjoy using a sex toy or use it while masturbating also. Take your pick from lubricants that are silicone, water, or oil-based — whichever is best for you!

Can you use lube during oral sex?

The answer is based on both the type of lubrication and the components that were used to produce it. While using lubrication during oral sex is not completely safe, it is unlikely that you will be poisoned by it. You could have nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea if you consume an oil-based lubricant. Avoid using a lube that contains substances like benzocaine and lidocaine. Be sure to use the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid any side effects.

Types of lubricant

Lube comes in a variety of forms, including water-based, silicone-based, and oil-based. So, choose it according to your preferences.

• Water-based lubes are the most versatile and work with condoms and sex toys the best.
• Silicone-based lubes are more durable and ideal for water play, but they can harm silicone sex toys.
• Oil-based lubes are useful as lube alone; they should not be used with condoms since they can break down the latex and increase the chance of breakage.

So ladies, give it a try!