If you buy something through a link on this page, we can earn a small commission. How does this work? Coconut oil is a popular natural op...
Coconut oil is a popular natural option for relieving vaginal dryness. Some studies suggest that coconut oil is safe for the skin and is an effective moisturizer.
Many people use moisturizers or vaginal lubricants to relieve vaginal discomfort and make sex more enjoyable. NAIL
Although there are various vaginal lubricants in the personal health lobby, some people prefer a more natural approach.
However, persons using latex-based contraceptives should avoid using coconut oil as a lubricant. In fact, the oil can degrade the latex contained in these devices and make them less effective.
In this article, we examine whether coconut oil acts as a vaginal lubricant, how it is safely used, and what risks and considerations should be considered.
We also discuss other benefits of using coconut oil on the skin and other alternatives for vaginal dryness.
Coconut oil is a popular home remedy for a number of health problems. Many people also use it to moisturize their hair and skin. Oil is also becoming more popular as a natural lubricant for vaginal dryness.
However, evidence of the efficacy of coconut oil as a vaginal lubricant has been largely anecdotal.
Some studies suggest that coconut oil is safe for the skin and can help with dryness. For example , a 2013 study focused on the topical use of coconut oil for the treatment of mild to moderate eczema in children.
The team concluded that coconut oil is more effective than mineral oil in treating the symptoms of atopic dermatitis such as dry skin. None of the children in the study had a side effect on coconut oil.
The researchers also found that coconut oil:
- Coats the skin to reduce water loss
- helped to strengthen the skin barrier
- It has supple properties, which means it can help to soothe and moisturize the skin.
Scientists have not studied the safety or efficacy of coconut oil as a personal lubricant. However, several studies suggest that coconut oil is generally safe for the skin.
Anyone allergic or sensitive to coconut or coconut oil should avoid the use of such products on the skin or as a personal lubricant.
Before using coconut oil, it may be helpful to do a patch test. Apply a small amount of coconut oil to the inner skin of the forearm and wait 24 hours to see if there is a reaction.
Do not use coconut oil on the skin or as a personal lubricant if this causes:
- itching
- blush
- swelling
- Irritation or discomfort
To use coconut oil as a personal lubricant, apply it around the opening of the vagina and into the vulva. Apply the oil to any objects that enter the vagina, such as: Penis, fingers or sex toys.
People using latex-based contraceptives such as condoms and diaphragms should avoid using coconut oil as a vaginal lubricant.
Coconut oil and other oil-based lubricants degrade latex in these devices, making them less effective and increasing the risk of unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections .
Vaginal lubricants can also alter the natural pH in the vagina, which may increase the risk of infection. People who are most likely to have vaginal infections may consult their doctor before using coconut oil as a lubricant.
There may be other safer options for people who are very sensitive to pH changes.
It should also be noted that oil-based lubricants, such as coconut oil, may be complicated to use and may contaminate clothing, undergarments and bedding.
Using a towel while having sex can help protect the sheets. People who use coconut oil outside of sex should wear a slip protector or a thin cushion to protect their underwear.
Pure coconut oil is a natural moisturizer and contains no additional chemicals that can cause skin irritation.
Some studies also suggest that coconut oil has antibacterial properties that can help protect against infection.
For example a
The use of coconut oil also has some practical advantages. It is a thicker oil which means it tends to stay on the skin for longer, reducing the need for re-application. This can make coconut oil a cost effective option for personal lubrication.
Coconut oil is also widely used in health food stores and supermarkets.
Other natural lubricating options are almond, olive, peanut and avocado oils.
There are also many commercial lubricants available in pharmacies and online.
Commercial lubricants come in three main forms:
- water-based
- oil-based
- silicone-based
Water-based and silicone-based lubricants are ideal for people using condoms or latex membranes.
Some products cause irritation when a person uses them in the delicate tissues of the vulva and vagina. This includes:
- petroleum-based products, such as petrolatum
- glycerine-containing products
- baby oil
- flavored products
- Products with heating, cooling or tingling properties
Although the spermicidal gel provides lubricant, it can sometimes cause irritation and an unpleasant, chemical taste and odor.
Menopause or those already affected can consult their doctor to find out if they are candidates for vaginal estrogen . This can help to correct the hormonal imbalances that lead to vaginal dryness.
Coconut oil is a popular natural option for relieving vaginal dryness. Although there are no specific studies on the use of coconut oil as a lubricant for personal use, studies indicate that coconut oil is generally safe for the skin.
Coconut oil can cause skin irritation in some people. It is therefore advisable to test it in a small skin patch before using it as a personal lubricant.
Because oils can break down latex, people who use condoms or latex membranes may not want to use coconut oil or other oil-based products as a lubricant during sex.
A range of products based on pure coconut oil can be purchased online .
We select linked items based on product quality and list the pros and cons of each item so you can determine which one works best for you. We work with some of the companies that sell these products. This means that Healthline UK and our partners can receive some of the revenue when you make a purchase through one or more links.
