condom lubricant can make sexual activity feel more comfortable and enjoyable. However, not only that, condom lubricant is also useful to prevent condom damage so that sex becomes safer.
Most condom packages come with condom lubricant. Even so, you are still advised to use additional condom lubricant for the sake of comfort and safety in having sex.
Some people are even advised to use condoms without lubricant and add condom lubricant separately. This is because some types of condoms that are equipped with lubricants contain spermicide nonoxynol-9, which is a chemical that can kill sperm, but can also trigger inflammation and allergic reactions.
Various Types of Condom Lubricants
The use of condom lubricants can smoothen and facilitate penetration or entry of the penis during sex so that it can reduce the friction effect of condom rubber and uncomfortable skin.
Just like the condom itself, condom lubricant also consists of various types and each has a different composition. Here are the types of condom lubricants:
Water based lubricant
Experts rate this type of lubricant as the safest to use for various sexual activities, because water-based lubricants do not damage the latex which is the base material for condoms, nor do they cause skin irritation. This lubricant is also very easy to clean with water. However, this lubricant can not last long enough.
Oil based lubricant
Some people may prefer oil-based lubricants because they can make sex last longer. In addition, lubricating oil is also used at the same time for a pleasant massage session.
Unfortunately, oil-based lubricants can increase the risk of the latex condom tearing, resulting in a greater risk of pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections. This is of course contrary to the purpose of using condoms. In addition, this lubricant is also known to be more at risk of causing bacterial vaginosis.
Silicone based lubricant
This type of lubricant has a longer shelf life than water-based lubricants. Silicone-based lubricants are also hypoallergenic so they are safe for people who have a tendency to allergies. However, this lubricant is also more resistant to water, so it is sometimes difficult to clean after sexual intercourse.
What About Natural Lubricants?
In addition to artificial condom lubricants, not a few people often use natural condom lubricants made from coconut oil, vegetable oil, and olive oil. Although it does not always cause side effects, the safety of these ingredients still needs to be studied further.
Therefore, you have to be careful when using it. There is still the possibility that this natural condom lubricant can trigger allergic reactions and irritation of the genitals, especially the vagina.
In addition, it is also feared that natural oils can damage the condom or make the condom easy to tear, thereby reducing the benefits of the condom itself. So, it is better for you to use condom lubricants that have been clinically tested.
If you experience an infection or irritation of the genitals due to the use of condom lubricants based on water, oil, silicone, or natural oils, consult a doctor immediately. If you have an active sexual life, you should also consult a doctor to determine the right condom lubricant for you.
