Did you know that tissue on the vagina and vulva can absorb fluids at a higher rate than the skin? This is why the ingredients of things you are putting in and around the area matter.
A big issue lies in the regulation of these products. Tampons, pads, and most personal lubricants are considered medical devices which do not need to disclose ingredients on packaging. On top of that, the FDA does not usually require testing of personal lubricants in humans. So, because it is not an area of research that is prioritized, the data is lacking. And of course, regulatory bodies require this data to make the changes or updates on the safety of these products.
Based on my research, here are the top 5 ingredients to avoid in your lubricant.
1. Parabens
Common names: Methylparaben, Propylparaben, others ending in “paraben”
These preservatives are endocrine disruptors. This means they can mimic estrogen, interfere with the production and regulation of other hormones, and cause issues like vaginal irritation, fertility challenges, breast cancer etc (1).
2. Glycerin
Common names: Glycerin, Glycerol, Glycerine
Glycerin is in majority of the common lubricants, even the “natural” ones. It can disrupt the vaginal microbiome and increase unwanted bacterial growth leading to issues like yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. Glycerin has also been associated with damage to the barrier properties of vaginal tissue which protects it (2).
3. Fragrances + Flavouring
Common names: perfum, fragrance, aroma, natural/artificial flavours, natural food grade flavours
First off, why are we adding fragrances and flavours into lubricants anyways? Is it to further perpetuate the whole “vaginas should smell like flowers, if not they’re dirty” BS? Well, it’s time to put an end to that garbage. Fragrances and flavouring in any product, is basically code word for a laundry list of chemicals that companies don’t have to disclose to the consumer. On top of that, flavouring often contains sugars which can increase the risk of infections and yeast overgrowth. Fragrances can irritate the vulva and vagina, disrupt the natural pH and negatively impact the microbiome.
4. Spermicide/Microbicide
Common names: Nonoxynol-9, Chlorhexidine gluconate
Both of these ingredients significantly inhibit Lactobacillus species growth and colonization in the vagina. Lactobacilli live in the vagina and are responsible for fighting off infections and maintaining the overall health of the vagina and cervix (3). Disrupting the healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina can lead to an increased risk of infections and an overgrowth of unwanted bacteria. They also have been linked to tissue damage and inflammation of the vagina. Nonoxynol-9 is highly toxic to vaginal and rectal tissue and can increase the susceptibility of herpes and HIV infections (2) (4). These very ingredients are being marketed as “microbicides” to help protects people from HIV…surprise surprise.
5. Petroleum + Petroleum based ingredients (a.k.a petrochemicals)
Common names: Propylene glycol, petrolatum, petroleum jelly, baby oil
Petroleum based ingredients can disrupt that vagina’s natural pH and increase bacterial growth. People who use these products are two times as likely to test positive for bacterial vaginosis (5). They are also very irritating to the skin and remain in the vagina for a longer time which creates a breeding ground for bacteria.
Remember these ingredients are found not only in your lubricant, but also in condoms, soaps, wipes, vaginal washes, etc. READ YOUR INGREDIENTS.
As I continue my research, I am working on a downloadable shopping list to bring with you on your next search for a better lubricant. Join my email list to be the first to know when it drops!
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels