Lube can be a great addition to sex. When used with condoms, lube increases pleasure for both partners and decreases the risk of condom breakage. Most pharmacies and supermarkets (including the UHS Pharmacy) carry lube.
The three main types of lube are:
Water-Based
rinses off easily from skin and fabric
cheaper and easier to find than silicone-based lube
Silicone-Based
lasts longer than water-based lube
best for anal sex
Flavored
usually a water-based lube with flavor added, often contains sugar
DO: know how to use lube. Add a drop inside the condom before sex to increase sensation for the man. Add a few drops to the outside of the condom to reduce friction and breakage. Reapply as needed.
DON'T: use flavored lube for vaginal sex. The sugars in flavored lube can cause yeast infections.
DON'T: use an oil-based product as lube during sex. Oil-based products rapidly degrade latex condoms, putting you at risk for STIs and unplanned pregnancy. Oil-based products include Vaseline, baby oil, olive oil, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, and hand or body lotion. As a rule of thumb, do not use any cooking or beauty products as lube; only use products specifically designed for sex.
DO: use lube for anal sex.... every time! Lube is a must for anal sex. Since the anus is not self-lubricating, anal sex without lube is painful and risky. Friction during anal sex can cause tears to the tissue, increasing risk of STIs, including HIV. To reduce tearing and increase pleasure, apply lube (and a condom) before penetration, and reapply as needed.
DO: use silicone-based lube during anal sex. Because the anus and rectum absorb water, silicone-based lube lasts longer than water-based lube. If the only lube available to you is water-based lube, use it and reapply often.
DO: stop by the UHS Pharmacy to purchase condoms and lube at low prices. Condoms and lube are also available at the HPRC (SSB 1.106) - 3 free a day!
