In relation to intercourse, a big part of society continues to be caught up in weird myths, misinformation, and plain cluelessness. The disgrace, guilt, and hushed nature surrounding the subject make it even more durable for individuals to make clear their doubts and even realise that they’re doing it mistaken. One such misunderstood idea is the usage of lubricants.
Whereas seductive commercials and vibrant shows at pharmacies have made the phrase “lubricant” acquainted, the actual understanding of what’s secure and what’s not stays murky for a lot of. Dr Mangala Lakshmi, a fertility knowledgeable based mostly in Tamil Nadu, lately took to Instagram to lift consciousness in regards to the dangers of utilizing on a regular basis substances reminiscent of coconut oil and even saliva as lubricant options.
To grasp why these generally used substitutes could be dangerous, we reached out to Dr Gaana Sreenivas, Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Bone and Start Clinic and Rainbow Hospital. Right here’s what she revealed.
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Why are merchandise like coconut oil or physique lotions not beneficial as lubricants throughout sexual activity?
Dr Sreenivas explains that merchandise like petroleum jelly, coconut oil, or physique lotions can disrupt the pure vaginal surroundings. “They don’t seem to be formulated for inside use and will alter the pH stability, improve the chance of bacterial or yeast infections, and trigger irritation or allergic reactions.” Furthermore, oil-based substances can even “degrade latex condoms”, decreasing their effectiveness and growing the chance of unintended being pregnant or sexually transmitted infections.
{Couples} attempting to conceive must also particularly keep away from these lubricant options, as they will hinder fertilisation
Why is saliva not a beneficial lubricant throughout sexual activity?
Opposite to what many would possibly consider, saliva is pure however must also be averted. It comprises micro organism and viruses which might be innocent within the mouth however can result in infections when launched into the vagina.
“Utilizing saliva as a lubricant will increase the chance of bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and sexually transmitted infections reminiscent of herpes,” cautions Dr Sreenivas.
She additional explains that saliva doesn’t present satisfactory moisture and might even trigger microtears within the vaginal tissue, making the world extra weak to irritation and an infection.Story continues beneath this advert
What impact do these lubricant options have on sperm survival?
Oil-based merchandise can intervene with sperm motility and cut back the probabilities of conception. “Physique lotions typically comprise chemical substances, fragrances, or preservatives which might be poisonous to sperm. Even saliva has enzymes that may harm sperm,” she factors out. {Couples} attempting to conceive must also keep away from these substances, Dr Sreenivas provides, as a result of they will hinder fertilisation.
What’s your recommendation to {couples} who assume “pure” robotically means secure?
“Pure doesn’t all the time imply secure, particularly in the case of intimate well being,” Dr Sreenivas cautions. In keeping with the obstetrician, coconut oil and different pure substances can nonetheless disrupt vaginal pH, trigger infections, and harm condoms. “You will need to use merchandise particularly examined and authorized for vaginal use to make sure each security and effectiveness.”
Are there any pure lubricants you can advocate for {couples} who don’t need to go for store-bought ones?
If a pair needs to keep away from closely chemical-laden lubricants, they will search for lubricants labelled “fertility-friendly or pH-balanced,” with minimal components and no added fragrances or parabens. “Aloe vera-based lubricants or these with easy, water-based formulations could be safer selections,” says Dr Sreenivas. Nevertheless, she cautions that it’s all the time finest to seek the advice of a gynaecologist earlier than attempting any different to make sure it fits particular person wants and doesn’t intervene with vaginal well being or conception.
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on info from the general public area and/or the specialists we spoke to. At all times seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
