LUBE.

The amount of times I've used lube and thought: ooo that stings, but continued to use it is NOT good. That said, I never thought to research what is a) causing the irritation and b) what I should and shouldn't be buying to avoid the sting! Lucky for you, I have now done the research and am here to prevent you from having unnecessary lube-induced irritations.

First of all, I'd like to remind you that using lube is great, whether it be during sex or when using a sex toy. The right lube can be used to avoid abrasion, decreasing the chances of getting infections like vaginismus, thrush and bacterial vaginosis. But, it must be skin safe.

You can either buy oil-based or water-based lubes, but, unbeknown to my younger self, they each have different uses.

Oil-based lubes are great for a long-lasting coating to stop dryness and painful penetration, which is especially useful for post-menopausal women. But, they are NOT CONDOM COMPATIBLE, and are not vegan-friendly (they're made from bees wax).

Water-based lubes are condom compatible, but may contain harmful chemicals like:

- gylcerine

- this can increase chances of thrush

- glycole

- this is usually what stings

- parabens

- this is oestrogenic which is bad

- perfumes

- this alters the vagina's pH balance - which should be between 3.8-4.5

Another thing to avoid is KY Jelly, as this contains all the bad ingredients and is hyper-osmotic, meaning it draws out all the moisture from the vaginal walls. This is bad for the long-term health of your vagina.

So, if you use the right lube for you, it can enhance your sexual experience, making it both easier and more exciting. Just beware not to use the wrong one and suffer the consequences like I did!