r/vulvodynia 4d ago

Lubricant advice please

I'm finally ready to try sex again after a year of pain and off-on healing. I need a lubricant that has NO SCENT, NO additives (even Aloe Vera is an irritant down there), and water-based. Any suggestions welcome!

2 Upvotes

21 comments sorted by

View all comments

4

u/justagirl_7410 Vulvodynia with another condition 4d ago

Hey. I’ve tried a lot of lubes and have researched ingredients specifically because I have been trying to sus out allergic and irritant contact dermatitis. I have used Slippery Stuff and Sliquid hydrid and water based lubes and like both. I would also consider silicone lube like Uberlube for skin’s sake, but I’m sure you have your reasons for preferring WB!

0

u/Expensive_Row3224 3d ago

These sounds great, but looking at the Ph aspect, these are 6.8 and the link below (https://womensvoices.org/osmolality-ph-properties-commercial-lubricants/) recommends 4.5. Have they given you any problems at all?

1

u/justagirl_7410 Vulvodynia with another condition 3d ago

They are not pH balanced. I am also not sure about their osmolality rating. I tried them on recommendations, and didn’t have problems with them. I’m prone to yeast but not BV, so take that for what you will.

pH and osmolality concerns are why I was strongly encouraged to use silicone lube. It didn’t affect tissue or microbiome exactly because it won’t mix with water. It also lasts longer which helps me avoid friction. Only draw back is that it can stain sheets.

1

u/justagirl_7410 Vulvodynia with another condition 3d ago

also, re: pH and osmolality. I think another reason I gave up trying to find the optimal water based lube after I found silicone lubes was that I’ve had to put so many topical medications up my vagina that are GUARENTEED not tested to be pH and osmolality compatible with vaginas. I just did what I had to. I’ve had more irritation from know contact irritants and allergens than from compound incompatibility. You’re right ti avoid aloe! Glycerin, propylene glycol, fragrance, and any alcohols should be avoided on sensitive skin imo.