Finding the Best Lube: A Guide for Every Body and Every Need
Why Should I Use Lube?
Have you ever felt discomfort or rawness during sex, struggled with vaginal dryness, or needed extra glide for pelvic therapy? You’re not alone! Lubricant isn’t just for sex as many may think—it’s a game-changer for vaginal and pelvic health. Whether due to hormonal shifts, menopause, postpartum changes, or medical conditions like vulvodynia or vaginismus, the right lubricant can reduce friction, prevent irritation, and enhance comfort.
Lubricants also play a vital role in pelvic floor physical therapy, medical exams, and daily vaginal hydration. So, whether you’re looking to increase pleasure or simply move through life with more ease, finding the right lube can make all the difference!
Who Can Benefit from Using Lubricant?
Lubricants can provide comfort and enhance experiences for a wide range of people. Here’s a breakdown of those who could benefit:
Menopausal & Perimenopausal Women:
Declining estrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness, thinning tissue, and discomfort during sex often times feeling rawness or stinging down there. A pH-balanced, low-osmolality lubricant can prevent irritation and protect delicate tissues.Postpartum & Breastfeeding Mothers:
Hormonal shifts after childbirth—especially while breastfeeding—can cause dryness in a similar way as around menopause which can make sex feel uncomfortable. Even if you feel ready for intimacy, dryness-related pain might be holding you back.Pelvic Pain & Chronic Conditions (Vulvodynia, Endometriosis, IC):
People with chronic pelvic pain often experience discomfort with penetration or daily activities. Lubes infused with lidocaine or CBD may provide extra relief.People Undergoing Cancer Treatments:
Chemotherapy, radiation, and hormone therapy can cause severe vaginal dryness, irritation, and tissue fragility. Choosing a glycerin-free, paraben-free lubricant is essential for comfort and safety.Those Who Participate in Anal Sex: Lubricants are essential for minimizing friction and reducing discomfort during anal intercourse.
People Using Pelvic Floor Therapy Tools (Toys, Dilators, Biofeedback Devices):
Lube makes it easier to insert dilators, vibrators, and pelvic therapy tools. It is also crucial to use during sessions.To Help with Toys and Dilators: Using lubricants with toys and dilators can ease insertion and improve comfort, especially if pelvic muscles feel tight.
Anyone Who Wants to Enhance Pleasure:
Lube isn’t just for necessity—it can elevate your experience. Some lubricants are designed to last longer, improve sensitivity, all while improving comfort.
How to Choose the Right Lubricant for Your Needs
With all the different lubes on the market, it can feel confusing and overwhelming on where to start. Understanding the different types of lubricants will help you make an informed decision on what is best for your needs. Here’s a quick rundown:
The Different Types of Lube
Lubes come in four main types, each with its own pros and cons:
Water-Based Lubricants:
Best for: Everyday use, sensitive skin, and compatibility with toys, condoms, and pelvic therapy tools (ie: Dilators or Pelvic Wands)
Pros: Easy to wash off, non-sticky, widely compatible, and ideal for those with sensitive skin.
Cons: Can dry out faster and may need reapplication.
Top Picks: Sliquid H2O, Good Clean Love Almost Naked
Silicone-Based Lubricants:
Best for: Long-lasting lubrication, shower play, and reducing friction.
Benefits: Doesn’t dry out quickly, provides a super-smooth glide, and waterproof.
Cons: Not safe for silicone toys and harder to wash off.
Top Picks: Uberlube, Pjur Original
Oil-Based Lubricants:
Best for: Natural hydration and moisturizing effects.
Pros: Often made from coconut oil or almond oil, providing a natural, long-lasting feel.
Cons: Not safe for latex condoms and can increase infection risk if not cleaned properly.
Top Picks: Coconut Oil (Organic, Unrefined)
Hybrid Lubricants: Combines water and silicone-based properties for versatility.
Best for: A balance between long-lasting glide and easy cleanup.
Pros: Offers the benefits of both water- and silicone-based lubes.
Cons: May not be safe for condoms, toys, or pelvic tools.
Top Picks: Sliquid Silk, Aloe Cadabra
Which Lubricant is Right for You?
Daily Vaginal Hydration (Menopause/Postpartum)
Best Lube Type: Vaginal Moisturizer
Recommended Brands: Good Clean Love Restore, Replens
Sensitive Skin
Best Lube Type: Water-Based, No Glycerin/Parabens
Recommended Brands: Sliquid H2O, Good Clean Love Almost Naked
Long-Lasting Comfort
Best Lube Type: Silicone-Based
Recommended Brands: Uberlube, Pjur Original
Pelvic Floor Therapy (Dilators, pelvis wands, exams)
Best Lube Type: Water-Based, Medical-Grade
Recommended Brands: Slippery Stuff, Surgilube
Trying to Conceive (TTC)
Best Lube Type: Fertility-Friendly
Recommended Brands: Pre-Seed, BabyDance
Anal Play
Best Lube Type: Silicone-Based, Thick Water-Based
Recommended Brands: Sliquid Sassy, Aloe Cadabra.
Shower/Bath Use
Best Lube Type: Silicone-Based
Recommended Brands: Uberlube, Wet Platinum
What to Look for in a Lube (and What to Avoid!)
✅ Key Features of a Good Lube:
Ingredients: Look for hypoallergenic formulas if you have sensitive skin.
pH-Balanced: Opt for lubricants that are pH-balanced to maintain vaginal health (Ideal vaginal pH: ~3.5-4.5)
Low Osmolality: This mimics natural moisture; <1200 mOsm/kg)
Compatible with Your Needs: Ensure compatibility with toys, condoms, or pelvic tools you may use.
Longevity: Choose a lubricant that matches your needs in terms of how long-lasting it is.
🚫 Avoid These Ingredients:
Glycerin: Can increase yeast infection risk
Parabens: Often linked to hormone disruption.
Nonoxynol-9: This common ingredient in spermicidal lubes can cause irritation and increase the risk of STIs.
Petroleum-Based Oils: Not only can they degrade latex condoms, but they can also lead to bacterial vaginosis and infections.
FAQ: Your Lube Questions Answered
Can I Use Lube When Trying to Conceive (TTC)?
Yes! But avoid regular lubes, as some can hinder sperm movement. Instead, opt for fertility-friendly options like Pre-Seed or BabyDance, which are isotonic and pH-balanced to support sperm motility.
How Does Lube Come Into Play with Certain Cancers?
Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and hormone therapy can cause vaginal dryness and tissue fragility. Paraben-free, glycerin-free vaginal moisturizers and lubricants can help relieve symptoms and improve comfort.
Do I Need Lube Even If I Don’t Experience Dryness?
Absolutely! Lube enhances pleasure, reduces friction, and makes intimacy more enjoyable—even if dryness isn’t an issue.
Final Thoughts
The right lubricant enhances more than just intimacy—it supports pelvic health and overall comfort. Whether you’re managing dryness, using pelvic therapy tools, or seeking more enjoyable intimacy, there’s a perfect option for you.
Still unsure? A pelvic floor therapist can help you choose the best option for your body.
Written By,
Dr. Jana Richardson, PT, DPT, WCS, PRPC, CIDN
Dual Board Certified Pelvic Floor Therapist and Owner of Chicago Pelvic Health
Dr. Jana Richardson is a highly accomplished pelvic floor therapist with dual board certifications and extensive experience in treating complex pelvic floor dysfunctions. As the owner of Chicago Pelvic Health, Dr. Richardson is dedicated to providing personalized and effective care for her patients. With a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, and specialized certifications in Women’s Health and Pelvic Rehabilitation, Dr. Richardson is a leading expert in her field. She is also certified in Integrative Dry Needling, further enhancing her ability to offer comprehensive treatment plans. Dr. Richardson’s commitment to patient-centered care and her passion for helping individuals achieve optimal pelvic health make her an invaluable asset to the community.
