Flavored lube: To make oral sex taste better, you might enjoy something with flavor. These typically water-based lubricants are A-OK for penetrative sex, but the additives may make you more susceptible to vaginal infections. What to look for in a good lube Once everything is melted together, pour it inside the storing container and pop it into the fridge until it’s time to use it. One study, which looked at intercourse between males, suggests that those who use saliva as a lubricant could spread gonorrhea. An older study also highlights saliva in oral sex might cause vaginal yeast infections. Baby oil Dr Elizabeth Daprè, an academic GP trainee explains, 'When planning penetrative anal play always make sure to use a lot of lubricant. The anus and rectum do not self-lubricate as the vagina does, and without the liberal use of lubricant the delicate rectal tissue is at risk of damage. However, it is important to note that it is not safe to use with most condoms as it breaks down the latex.

Keep an eye on the type of lube you’re using, too. Water-based is safe for use with both condoms and toys, but isn’t as long-lasting, so you’ll need more of it, silicone-based works with condoms but not with silicone toys (friction causes break down), and oil-based lasts longer but doesn’t work with condoms or toys as again, it can cause breakdown.

The Best Hybrid Lube: Sliquid Silk

Remember, as they contain silicone, they are not safe to use with silicone sex toys. Best hybrid anal lubes Unsurprisingly, there are a large number of flavoured lubes out there which can make giving head a little more delicious. These vary in flavour, going everywhere from fruity to sweet to minty, and tend to be mainly water-based given that consuming silicone isn't exactly super-healthy.

Sexual lubricant or lube is often assumed to be reserved for anal sex, hen-party giggles or post-menopausal vaginal dryness, but this isn’t the case. The vagina’s natural lubrication levels can be influenced by a wide variety of factors, including hormonal levels during the monthly cycle, pregnancy or menopause, but it can also be affected by things such as contraception and breastfeeding. To help enhance arousal and your experience, apply as much or as little lube as you like to the vulva before and during sex or solo play to best fit your needs. Chow, E. P. F., et al. (2016). Saliva use as a lubricant for anal sex is a risk factor for rectal gonorrhoea among men who have sex with men, a new public health message: A cross-sectional survey. Sherry Ross, MD, is a gynaecologist, women’s sexual health expert, and author of She-ology: The Definitive Guide to Women's Intimate Health. Period. How we chose the best anal lubes Silicone-based lubes are suitable for sexual intercourse as they do not damage latex-based barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms.

The Best Lube for Sensitive Skin: Sliquid H20

This recipe is based on creating a homemade anal lube that is sensual and enhances your sexual experience with a pleasant smell. Baby oil as a lube carries the risk of poisoning, infection, and damage to barrier methods of contraception. Lube doesn’t have to be a last resort for when things have gone a bit dry – you can use it at any time during sex to spice things up. It also comes in different flavours, and can create different sensations like a warming or cooling effect wherever it’s applied. For the past few years, the Women’s Health team, including editorial assistant Sabrina Talbert and freelance writer Gabrielle Kassel, have been researching the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated silicone, water-based, and oil-based lubes for anal sex. 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.