Vaginal health. It’s an important part of your health, so you shouldn’t shy away from learning about products like vaginal moisturizers and lubricants (sometimes called personal moisturizers), especially given their numerous benefits. As with anything coming into contact with your body, you should take your time and get familiar with the labels of your intimate products. Knowing the ingredients can help you or a partner avoid any adverse or unexpected reactions.
Unfortunately, there is a pervasive amount of misinformation concerning over-the-counter sexual products. Let’s talk ingredients so you can stay informed and choose the right products for you.
Parabens
Parabens are common preservatives that are often added to cosmetics, including ones we use in intimate areas. Parabens are known to have antibacterial and antifungal properties. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says that they do not have information that shows parabens have an effect on human health.
The American Cancer Society agrees, saying that there are no clear health risks from parabens in food, drugs, cosmetics, and skincare products. Despite this, many myths concerning parabens still persist. They are not poisonous and in small quantities likely pose no significant health risk.
Glycerin
Glycerin is another common additive that may be considered a drying agent. Some women may feel that this additive may lead to yeast infections while others have no issue with this ingredient. There is not enough scientific evidence to link glycerin as a cause of yeast infections. For more information, read here.
Menthol
Menthol and synthetic derivatives of menthol, like niacin and peppermint oil, may be added to sexual arousal gels and can be irritating and drying to the vaginal lining. For some, it should be avoided since it can irritate and cause damage to the delicate mucus membrane. But many women without any specific underlying conditions, such as vaginal dryness, often enjoy these exciting stimulants and feel they heighten and intensify the orgasmic experience.
Polyethylene Glycol (PG or PEG-7)
PG can be found in a wide variety of products from cosmetics to cleansers. You may be surprised it’s used as a thickening agent in some vaginal products. It may affect the skin’s natural barrier and cause irritation or discomfort. Avoiding this ingredient is best.
Nonoxynol-9
Nonoxynol-9 is a detergent spermicide and is often found in condoms, lubricants, and some sex accessory cleaners. In some clinical studies, it was shown to potentially fight the HIV virus. However, this same ingredient could also cause damage that unfortunately may increase the chances of getting HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. So, negatives cancel out positives in this case. FYI potential damage connected to nonoxynol-9 includes micro lesions in the lining the vagina and/or damage of the protective rectal lining in the anus.
Added Fragrances or Colors
Some fragrances or colors can be nice in intimate products, but if you have sensitive skin, you may want to avoid them. Synthetically created smells are typically a mixture of phthalates and other chemicals. For some products, fragrances have been associated with irritation, redness, and other complaints. However, bodies vary so, if you don’t have sensitive skin, feel free to try products. For added measure, you can try a patch test by applying a small amount to part of your skin to test for any unwanted reactions before using the product.
You have many choices out there, and all with different combinations of ingredients! Now that you’re educated on common ingredients in vaginal health products, you can better decide what’s right for you.
