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Personal lubricants are intended for added lubrication during sexual activity. Extra lubrication allows everything to slide more easily and can make sex more comfortable (including vaginal sex, anal sex, oral sex, and masturbation). Anyone who experiences too much friction or any discomfort during sexual activity may find the use of additional personal lubrication helpful. Excess friction can also cause condoms to break or tear, so the use of lubrication is generally a good thing. Only a few drops are needed at a time, but a little bit goes a long way. If the lubricant dries up, more can be added later.

SSIS sells Astroglide, Wet, Wet Light, and Wet Flavored, which are all water-based lubricants. SSIS also sells Wet Platinum and Eros, which are silicon-based lubricants. Both water and silicon-based lubricants are suitable for use with latex barrier methods such as most condoms and glyde dams. Silicon tends to retain lubrication longer than water-based lubricants. Petroleum-based lubricants, such as other oily materials, should never be used with latex products, because oils break down latex. Some other personal lubricants, such as Aqualube, contain a small amount of spermicide. There is not usually enough to significantly lower the chance of conception, so the use of an additional method is recommended for effective contraception. Many condoms also contain a spermicidal lubricant, but this also does not significantly reduce the chances of contraception. The additional use of a separate spermicide provides much better contraception than that found in lubrication. People who are allergic to spermicide, however, should not use personal lubricants or lubricated condoms with spermicide.

Many condoms come pre-lubricated, but adding more generally makes sex more comfortable. Personal lubricants should be added to the outside of a male condom before penetration. One can also apply a small amount to the inside of the tip of the condom before putting it on. The addition of lubrication to the inside of a condom can make sexual activity feel more natural for the male, especially when the condom is being worn for oral sex. Too much lubricant on the inside of the condom, however, may cause it to accidentally slip off the penis during sexual activity.

Some personal lubricants also contain flavoring. This can be enjoyable for oral sex, massage, or any other creative activities. When using flavored lubricants the same rules apply as above. If it is oil-based, be sure that the lubricant does not interact at all with any latex products. One should also be careful when using flavored lubricants that contain sugars, since these can have an undesired effect on vaginal pH and cause yeast infections. Some flavored condoms, such as Trustex Flavored and Durex Colors and Scents, are safe for vaginal sex, but it is important to check.

Female condoms come with their own lubricant, which should be used during sex, but more lubricant can be added if desired.