Personal Lubricants & Vaginal Moisturisers

Coconut oil is often discussed online as a natural personal lubricant, and some women do use it. However, it is not designed or tested as a vaginal lubricant, so it may not be suitable for everyone.

Coconut oil is oil-based, which means it should not be used with latex condoms because oil can weaken latex and increase the risk of breakage.

It also does not match the natural vaginal pH. Some women tolerate coconut oil without issues, while others notice irritation, discomfort, or recurrent infections such as thrush. Women who are prone to vaginal infections or sensitivity may be more likely to experience problems.

Another consideration is that oil-based products can be harder to wash away from vaginal tissues and pelvic health devices.

Because of these factors, coconut oil is generally not considered a first-choice lubricant by pelvic health clinicians. Lubricants formulated for vaginal use are designed to be more predictable and gentle on sensitive tissue.

If someone chooses to try coconut oil and notices irritation, itching, or unusual discharge, it is best to stop using it and seek advice if symptoms persist.

Vaseline (petroleum jelly) is not recommended as a vaginal lubricant.

Petroleum jelly is thick and occlusive and is designed for external skin use rather than internal vaginal use. It can be difficult to fully clear from the vaginal canal.

Research has found an association between intravaginal petroleum jelly use and higher rates of bacterial vaginosis. This does not mean it causes infection in every case, but the risk is enough that most clinicians advise against using it internally.

Like other oil-based products, Vaseline is also not compatible with latex condoms because oils can weaken latex and increase the chance of breakage.

While it may seem convenient, Vaseline is not formulated for the vaginal environment. The vagina has different needs compared to external skin.

If someone is searching for a lubricant due to dryness or discomfort, a product designed specifically for vaginal use is generally a safer and more supportive choice for long-term vaginal health.

This is a very common question, especially when lubricant is not available at the time.

Household products such as oils, moisturisers, or petroleum jelly are often suggested online, but they are not ideal for vaginal use. They may cause irritation, disrupt the vaginal environment, or increase infection risk for some women.

Oil-based products are also not safe with latex condoms.

The safest option is a lubricant specifically made for vaginal use. These products are formulated to be gentle on sensitive tissues.

If dryness happens occasionally, it may relate to hydration, arousal, or temporary hormonal fluctuations. Taking time for arousal and using a small amount of lubricant can help.

If dryness is frequent or uncomfortable, it may be linked to hormonal changes, medications, postpartum recovery, or menopause. In those cases, it can be helpful to speak with a GP or pelvic health physiotherapist.

The key takeaway is that the vagina is not the same as external skin, and products designed for skin care are not designed for vaginal health.

Using vaginal lubricant is simple, and only a small amount is usually needed.

Lubricant can be applied to the vaginal entrance, to a partner, or to pelvic therapy tools such as dilators or pelvic wands. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.

Too much lubricant can sometimes reduce sensation or make pelvic therapy tools harder to control, so gradual use is helpful.

If using condoms, water-based or silicone-based lubricants are safer choices because oil-based products can weaken latex.

A lubricant should not sting or burn. If irritation occurs, it may indicate sensitivity to certain ingredients, and trying a different product can help.

Lubricant is meant to support comfort, not mask pain. Ongoing pain or discomfort should be assessed rather than ignored.