Even though many lubes include a numbing agent, we recommended never to use numbing lubes, gels, or creams for anal sex.

While all of the above are valid uses, anyone can get a little something from getting slippy. So, if you’re wondering “what is lube?” or “which lube is right for me?”, pens, paper and sex toys at the ready – we’re about to give you the lowdown on all things lube. If you’re making your own, there are a few household items that look the part, but should never be used as a lube substitute. If you’re not sure that having a smell is your jam, simply skip the essential oils and only use aloe vera gel with flaxseed oil. This advice still stands if your partner ejaculates inside you. Though some people worry this could cause runny poops that resemble diarrhea, Dr. Frankhouse says this actually isn’t the case. For one thing, since poop usually isn’t in your rectum until you’re close to expelling it, there’s no real opportunity for poop and semen to mix. Even if poop could go farther up into your colon, semen is usually runny. Since your anus will likely remain expanded for a few minutes after anal sex, that semen can just leak right on out, Dr. Frankhouse says. If you want to go to the bathroom to expel that, feel free, but it’s not necessary!Darvishi, M., et al. (2015). The comparison of vaginal cream of mixing yogurt, honey and clotrimazole on symptoms of vaginal candidiasis. The silicone creates a pleasurable gliding feeling, which makes anal sex much more enjoyable and safe. THE REVIEW: As one person writes, "By far the best anal lube we’ve used to date. Water-based yet still viscous enough to use for longer running anal play. A little goes a long way." Now, there are also items that you might be tempted to use, but they’re actually dangerous to use as anal lubes: 1. Vaseline Nope, you don’t need to. It’s your body and you’re the one exploring it – it’s really up to you how to prepare.

It's not specifically designed for menopausal dryness, but Durex’s Naturals Intimate Gel has been called out as a great option for this use. It's made from completely natural ingredients, and free from smells, taste and colour. Durex has formulated this gel lube with prebiotics to help maintain skin balance; the product has a moisturising effect, rather than just pure lubrication. While it may not look as all-singing, all-dancing as some of the lubes in this list, this is a safe option from a trusted brand. Customers do note that you need to use a fair bit, so it's a shame it only comes in 100ml. Best lube for toys Oil-based lubes are usually made using natural oils such as vitamin E or coconut oil. They’re long-lasting and waterproof like silicone. They help with more severe dryness, says Dr. Eilber, but they are not compatible with latex condoms, and they could stain bedding and clothing. However, people should avoid using silicone-based lubricants with sex toys, as they may damage silicone products. Oil-based lubricantsMedical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. But there’s one caveat with silicone-based lubes that’s important to keep in mind: They can degrade the material of silicone sex toys, meaning it’s not the best option if you’re planning to use toys. And, if you’re using a condom, you should stay away from oil-based lubes, as they can break down the latex. In addition to avoiding the chemicals we mentioned above, you should also steer clear of petroleum. It could degrade condoms, cause infections, and potentially risk cancer.

Now, it might be tempting to use butter as an anal lube as it’s an oil, just like coconut butter, right? If you’re a fan of oil-based lubes and don’t worry about using latex condoms, then this recipe is going to be for you. Aside from coconut oil and almond oil, you can use pretty much any vegetable oil for anal sex. It’s an easy and affordable option that you’re likely to already have around the house. Not only does it feel great, but lube also helps to prevent injury, tearing or discomfort during sex or masturbation. Which lube is best for me?A word of warning: natural oils (like coconut oil) and oil-based lubes may have the right consistency, but they can erode latex, which is why Sinclair says to avoid using coconut oil or almond oil when using condoms. If you're using sex toys, she also suggests avoiding silicone-based lubes with sex toys. "Using silicone lube on a silicone sex toy can cause bending, warping, and the ruin of a toy," says Sinclair "Use a high-quality, water-based lubricant instead." If you’re using the lubricant on a condom, make sure the type of lube you use is appropriate (oil-based lubricants can damage latex condoms). First, there are some types of enemas you definitely shouldn’t use: “I don’t advise using store-bought enemas containing laxative solution, which cause your rectum to spasm and stimulate emptying,” Dr. Thomas says. “Those harsh solutions can irritate the rectum and tiny tears can increase the risk of STI transmission.” If you take more than the recommended dose, laxative solutions can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that can damage your organs and even kill you. Long-term use can cause a loss of muscle tone in your intestines, which means your colon won’t be able to contract and push out your poop normally. If you choose to use an additional lubricant, make sure to choose one that is compatible with the type of condom you're using. Oil-based lubes do not pair well with latex condoms.