Tabuu Wrap-up: When you love using lubricant, you must know what’s in it. If it’s hurting you or causing discomfort, read the label to figure it out!

You’re all hot and bothered, so it’s really to take the fun further. You reach for your favorite lube that’s sitting on your nightstand and prepare for your ride!

A few minutes go by and you start to feel a bit uncomfortable down there. You change positions and add more lube. But soon your discomfort becomes pain. You’re itching and burning all over. What the heck is going on?

You’re desperately trying to find a solution, so you switch positions again and you take the speed down a notch. However, nothing’s really helping. So you decide you’ll go to your doctor.

The thing is they can’t find anything wrong so they recommend you just use more lube. But you have and it doesn’t work! What to do next? Well, here’s how you could figure it out!

Check the Ingredients on Your Favorite Lube

According to studies, a third of women feel pain at some point during sex. This is why most doctors and resources highly recommend using lube during intercourse. However, new research is pointing the finger at lube as a part of the problem!

More than 95% of OTC lubes contain chemicals that are irritating and toxic. If you’re experiencing some discomfort or pain and you can’t figure out what’s going on, read your lube’s label and check the ingredients.

You want to look for glycerin, parabens such as methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben, as well as glycols such as polyethylene glycol and propylene. These chemicals are meant to preserve the lube, make them long-lasting, and more slippery. However, these ingredients are linked to nasty reactions that can be painful and even dangerous.

The Issue With Parabens

Parabens can be very dangerous and they’ve been linked to different types of cancers, including breast cancer, testicular cancer, and ovarian cancer. Not to mention it can also reduce men’s sperm count. They can also cause allergic reactions, especially in sensitive areas such as vaginal and rectal walls.

The Issue With Glycerin

Glycerin is also an issue because it’s linked to mucus membrane damage and yeast infections. They’re also known to cause irritation to the eyes and the skin. For example, propylene glycol can be found in paint solvent, anti-freeze, and brake fluid, and it can cause damage to the skin, not to mention it’s linked to acidosis, cancer, and even central nervous system damage.

Keep Away from Nonoxynol-9

Spermicidal lubricants contain Nonoxynol-9, which is known to cause tissue damage and cell damage as well. Lubricants that contain menthol, fragrances, or peppermint can cause allergic reactions, irritation, or cause the skin to dry. Not to mention these chemicals make you more likely to catch an STI.

Why Are These Chemicals Allowed in Lubricants If They’re so Harmful?

Well, they’re not allowed to be used in lubricants. Most lubricants are not regulated and because they’re labeled for novelty use only, the standard is a lot lower. They don’t have to withstand the same safety tests as other products. Only prescription lubes and lubes that are made for pregnant women are held to higher standards.

But don’t worry! There are many different alternatives available on the market. Small lubricant brands are not using glycerin or parabens because their customers demand higher-quality products.

So, finding a safe lubricant won’t be an issue. All you need to do is read the label and make sure there aren’t any parabens or glycerin in the ingredients. Look for more natural or organic alternatives and you’ll be fine.

Our bodies are all different, so you never know how it will react to something. If you discover that your lubricant is causing you harm, stop using it immediately and throw it away. You may need to try different lubricants until you find the perfect one for you, but that’s not a big issue. Luckily, many brands out there provide sample packs so you can try different products.

If you try a lube and you experience any pain, itching or burning sensations, wash it off immediately and try something else. Just be patient and you will eventually find the lubricant that’s perfect for your body!