For a lot of women, sex can be painful and uncomfortable. This is specially true for those having intercourse for the first time. In fact, we take it for granted that it will be a painful experience. But it doesn’t have to be.
We asked Dr. Arpita Gangwani, Consultant Gynaecologist and Obstetrician at Apollo Cradle about the various ways in which a good lubricant can help with common sexual issues, and this was on the top of this list. In fact, she recommends that you definitely use a good lubricant if you are having intercourse for the first time.
The truth is, sex without enough lubrication is painful and uncomfortable for anyone. And not just this, it can also cause unnecessary friction, and cause a condom to rip. A good lubricant is the answer in times like this. And if you thought that you will never have great sex because one of you is just the “wrong size” … hold on. Size issues can become non-issues when you are sufficiently lubricated!
The third, and fairly common problem, that can be dealt with is vaginismus, a common gynaecological issue in which the vaginal muscles contract at the thought of sex. It is sort of a panic reaction that they have to the idea, and results in the painful sex. The answer? You guessed it… A good lube!
But how do we pick the right lube?
The simple answer, according to Dr. Gangwani, is “anything from a known brand like Durex, or that is ISI marked is good.” However, she gives a cautionary note against lubricants with spermicide, which seem to be quite popular these days. These are not FDA approved, can cause infections and inflammation, and don’t help much in preventing pregnancy. She also advices against using just “anything” that’s available, like massage oil or body lotion.
Although KY Jelly is the most recommended by doctors, there’s an entire range of safe-to-use lubes that come in all sorts of flavours. So, don’t be shy and go get yourself one before your next night in with your guy.
