Lubricating gel.
Lubricating jelly is a gel-like liquid, usually water or silicone based, used to moisten the skin and soften the orifices of the body. Medical professionals often keep it on hand to facilitate the insertion of vaginal specula, rectal thermometers, and other instruments that need to be placed on the body. Some jellies can also be used during intercourse to replace or increase natural lubrication, and women can keep these types of products on hand to soothe or relieve vaginal dryness.
medical uses
The lubricating jelly can be used for intimate moments.
Doctors and other health professionals often stock up on medical-grade lubricating gel to ease pain and discomfort during routine health checkups. These types of jellies are biologically inert, meaning they don’t interfere with test results; For example, if a nurse uses the jelly to guide a probe into the body to collect cell samples, the cells can be analyzed without worrying that they have been contaminated or altered in any way. Most can also be used safely with latex gloves, allowing for sterile exams.
personal uses
Lubricating gel can be used to ease the insertion of rectal thermometers.
Lubricating jelly is also popular as a means of preventing pain and tears during sexual intercourse. Sensitive genital areas often self-lubricate when aroused, but dehydration, stress, hormonal changes, and certain medications like antihistamines can decrease moisture. When this happens, applying a little lubricant can make the experience more enjoyable. It is usually applied to the penis, vagina, or anus.
Petroleum-based lubricants can break down latex condoms, making them less effective at preventing pregnancy or spreading disease.
Women who suffer from chronic vaginal dryness can also use lubricating gel as a way to stay moist. Dryness can be caused by menopause, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or medications. Since the vagina is a mucous membrane, continued dryness can be quite uncomfortable and can also change the pH of the vagina and make a woman more susceptible to yeast infections. Over-the-counter lubricating gel can be applied internally and externally as needed.
water based varieties
Certain medications and stress can affect natural lubrication.
Many of the most popular lubricating jellies are water-based, meaning they contain mostly water and are water-soluble. Most medical grade products fall into this category. These jellies are non-sticky and non-sticky and do not usually stain fabrics or clothing. They are also often hypoallergenic.
silicone jelly
Silicone lubricant jellies are oil or petroleum based. They tend to last much longer than water-based varieties, but they can also be more difficult to wash and can leave marks on some fabrics. Silicone jellies can usually be used with latex, but not always. This is a particular concern with condoms: A silicone-based lubricant that weakens the condom material increases the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Jellies that are certified latex are usually the best option when it comes to condoms. Most of the time, this type of certification is prominently displayed on the jam packaging or in safety information.
new products
Most lubricating jellies can be used with latex gloves.
Many pharmacies and drugstores sell a variety of lubricating jellies. The most standardized are transparent and odourless, but it is also possible to find some colored and flavored ones. Some jellies also contain a warming ingredient, usually capsaicin, derived from chili peppers. This is generally designed for pleasure during intimacy, but can be irritating for some people.
Health precautions and allergies.
Lubricating jellies are generally safe to use on all skin types, but may cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some people. It’s a good idea for people with sensitive skin or those prone to topical rashes and allergies to test a jelly on the back of the hand or the inside of the arm before applying it to the genitals.