There’s a time and a place for bedroom DIY, from assembling flatpack drawers to taking your orgasms (quite literally) into your own hands.
But when it comes to the type of products you use on intimate areas, it’s best to defer to the professionals. While most people know the dangers of makeshift condoms or sex toys however, it seems some haven’t got the message about lube.
On Reddit, you’ll find countless posts on repurposing household substances for some extra slip in the sack, with coconut oil being a particular favourite.
‘I have really sensitive skin and never found a good lube until I tried coconut oil, it is amazing… Never going back,’ said one user, while another commented: ‘I’ve been using it for years. It’s the best stuff. All those other lubes are full of chemicals.’
A third called it a ‘godsend’, adding: ‘I cannot express how much coconut oil has changed sex for me and my partners.’
It certainly has the glide factor, and the dual function of both massage oil and lubricant appears to be a major draw for couples. Some also enjoy the taste, using it when switching between penetrative sex and oral.
However, just because coconut oil appears to do the job, doesn’t mean it’s a good choice.
For one, oil-based products – ‘all natural’, organic, food safe or otherwise – aren’t safe for use with condoms, causing latex and polyisoprene to tear more easily, and potentially risking STIs or unwanted pregnancy.
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Dr Megha Pancholi, GP and clinical lead for sexual health at Boots Online Doctor tells Metro: ‘Even a small amount of oil can compromise condoms, so it’s important to opt for water-based lubricants.’
On top of that, she explains that because oils ‘can irritate genital or anal tissues and may cause tiny micro-tears in the skin or mucous membranes’, using them as lube makes it easier for viruses and bacteria to enter the body, further increasing the likelihood of STI transmission.
Whether you’re with a partner or not though, there are other issues to consider before reaching for the coconut oil.
‘There is a particular risk for women, as oil-based products can disrupt the vagina’s natural pH balance and destroy protective bacteria, which in turn can increase the risk of bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections,’ Dr Babak Ashrafi, GP and sexual health expert for Superdrug Online Doctor tells Metro.
‘The thick texture of these oils can also trap bacteria, which creates an environment where infections can thrive. Over time, this can lead to inflammation and alter the vaginal microbiome, heightening susceptibility to discomfort and recurring infections.’
According to Dr Pancholi, because household oils aren’t formulated for sensitive genital skin, the natural compounds or additives they contain ‘can cause allergic reactions, itching, or rashes’ if applied in intimate areas.
And if that wasn’t enough to put you off, whereas purpose-made lubricants are designed to be washed away with water, oils don’t dissolve as easily. That means you could be left with a residue that traps sweat and bacteria long after your sex session is over.
Essentially, natural isn’t always better, and trying to be a bedroom MacGuyver can have serious consequences.
What to use instead
Although you should steer clear of the the cooking oil aisle, there’s no shortage of lubes available, and you’re bound to find something that suits your needs.
Dr Pancholi explains that ‘water-based lubricants are suitable to use with all types of condoms and sex toys, and they are easy to clean,’ while silicone-based products ‘last longer and are also condom-safe, though they may require a little more washing afterwards.’
If you’re not sure what’s right, look for ‘body-safe’ and ‘condom-compatible’ labels on the packaging, which shows you a product has been tested for intimate use.”
‘Opting for a purpose-made lubricant is the most appropriate way to protect your sexual health and comfort, while still enjoying the benefits lube can bring to intimacy,’ Dr Pancholi adds.
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