Using lubricant, and using the proper one for you and the sexual situation, can be important for both enjoyment and sexual wellness.

Lube should be used in most penetrative sexual situations. Whether using a penis, a sex toy, or fingers, alone or with a partner, lube should always be used to help with pleasure and safety. It is not a matter of vaginal dryness. Lubrication helps penetration and serves a vital function in preventing micro-tears in the tissues of the vagina or anus. These tissues are delicate and can be easily damaged during penetration without proper lubrication, especially the anus. These micro-tears can invite bacteria and cause infection. They can also increase the possibility of contracting a sexually transmitted infection from your partner or partners if they are infected. Lube also helps with enjoyment. Most women report they enjoy sex more with plenty of lubrication to help things get wet and slippery.

There are generally four types of lube. They are water-based, oil-based, silicone-based, or a hybrid of these types.

Let's start with water-based lubes.

These are the most versatile. They can be used for vaginal or anal sex, with condoms, and with toys including silicone toys. Water-based lube is easy to use, doesn't generally stain, and is easy to clean up with just plain water. Water-based lube is best to use with toys, especially silicone-coated toys. Avoid products that contain glycerin, as it can promote vaginal yeast infections.

Next is oil-based lube.

This category contains natural oils like coconut or avocado or synthetic oils. The main downside here is they are generally not safe with condoms as they degrade the latex and make breakage more likely. They also have a higher risk of infection than water-based lube. They are great for massage and do not generally need to be reapplied like most water-based lubes. They are a little messier and harder to clean up. Try to limit these lubes for massage and use a silicone or water-based lube for penetration.

Last but not least, Silicone lubes.

They are similar to oil-based in the fact they do not require as much reapplication, even when using them in water, for example, shower sex. They are hypoallergenic so even the most sensitive of us can use them without issue. They are safe to use with condoms but can deteriorate silicone toys. They can cause abrasion if the surface of silicone products, so stick with water-based lube with your toys, especially if you share toys with a partner as the abrasions can harbor bacteria.

There are a great number of lubricants out there at your favorite adult store. Shop around and try the different types to see what works best for you and your partner or partners. Contact Badd Kitty to see what type of lube will get you wet. Our knowledgeable staff at our stores will be happy to help you navigate the many personal lubricant choices available in-store or online.