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5 of the best lubricants for menopause and beyond

According to research by the British Menopause Society, one in three women experience vaginal dryness during the menopause. Investing in quality lubricants can be a game-changer in the bedroom, easing discomfort and boosting sexual satisfaction for women of menopausal age and beyond.

The good news is that there are ways you can make sex and self-pleasure still feel satisfying, regardless of where you are in your menopause journey. To help, here are the common ingredients to look out for when choosing a lubricant, along with the lubricants that we’d recommend adding to your basket.

Lubricant versus vaginal moisturisers

Despite many people assuming that they’re the same thing, vaginal moisturisers are different to lube. While lubricants are designed for short-term use during sexual activities to reduce friction and enhance comfort, vaginal moisturisers are intended for regular, long-term application to maintain vaginal moisture and alleviate chronic dryness.

Vaginal moisturisers are usually long-lasting and so only need to be applied every two to three days. The choice between them depends on individual needs and preferences, but as a rule of thumb, lubricants are used in the bedroom for sex, whereas vaginal moisturisers combat general dryness.

5 of the best lubricants for menopause

There are plenty of lubricants on the market for peri-menopausal and menopausal women, but when choosing a lubricant, it’s important to be aware of ingredients that can upset the delicate balance of our vaginal microbiome. Common red-flag ingredients to avoid include:

  • Glycerin: a common ingredient in many lubricants, used for its moisture properties. Glycerin is a by-product of sugar and can lead to yeast infections if it upsets the vaginal microbiome.
  • Glycol: this compound alcohol can cause vaginal irritation with prolonged use.
  • Parabens: chemicals often found in beauty and household products. Some experts believe they can play havoc with the body’s endocrine disruptors, which influence the hormone receptors in the body.

Remember that different lubes have varying textures and ingredients, so selecting one that suits you best is essential. Here, we share five vagina-friendly lubricants, free of harmful ingredients.

Roam Adaptogenic Lubricant, £11.99

Ideal for those dealing with sexual discomfort, this lubricant from Roam is formulated with adaptogens and works to promote relaxation. Packed with prebiotics for a balanced intimate microbiome, it boasts a blend of nourishing ingredients like agave, aloe, and jojoba.

YES Organic Water-Based Lube, £22

Created from organic aloe vera, this water-based lubricant is designed to be sensuous, skin-nourishing, and deeply moisturising, making it the perfect companion for enhancing sexual pleasure.

LUVISS Water-Based Lubricant, £22

This luxurious, natural-feeling lubricant contains a blend of chamomile, green tea and aloe vera to gently nourish and hydrate your intimate areas. Formulated and created in the UK, it’s vegan, free from fragrance, glycerin, parabens and known skin irritants – perfect for women of all ages.

So Divine Classic Water-Based Lubricant, £11.99

If you want a luxurious feeling without stickiness, then So Divine is great for both solo and partnered sex. Its long-lasting formula is gentle on the body and it’s compatible with latex condoms and sex toys, adding versatility to your sexual experience.

Forage Botanicals Into the Wylde Lubricant, £14.99

A luxurious, certified vegan and organic botanical lubricant. Made from five dynamic botanicals, it has an intimately balanced pH, is 100% plant-based, and has a ‘body-identical’ feel. Use LIZLOVES for 15% off your order until the end of October 2023.

How to use lubricants in the bedroom

Using lube in the bedroom can enhance sexual pleasure and comfort, particularly if you’re struggling with low libido or vaginal dryness.

“It is important to feel fully aroused when enjoying penetrative sex to avoid any pain or discomfort,” says certified sex educator, Amber Mallery. “For many living with conditions such as vaginismus, the fear and anxiety around insertion can reduce arousal and natural lubrication.

“Don’t forget that you can use lubricants for solo use as well. Using a lubricant when exploring self-pleasure or intercourse can help reduce friction and discomfort, providing long-lasting glide.”

To use lubricant effectively, simply apply a small amount to your fingertips or directly onto the area you wish to lubricate, then gently spread it around, reapplying as needed.

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