7 Things To Consider When it Comes To Lube

At Vira, we want to make space for the conversations that matter, especially the ones that impact your most intimate wellbeing, which involves your body and personal sex life.

One of the most underrated essentials to support your wellbeing? Lube.

Lubricant is often seen in two ways: to use to “spice things up” or to use because you can’t “get wet”... both are myths. Lube is not often seen for the true reasons of its existence: to care for your body in a deeply supportive, nourishing way.

Whether you’re navigating hormone shifts, postpartum recovery, or solo pleasure, the right lubricant can make all the difference in how your body feels.

Here are 7 reasons why using a good lube matters, and what to look for when choosing one.

BTW, tried and tested lubes are available to purchase at Vira. Explore the SUTIL brand here and here on our website. 

1. Lube Reduces Friction (and Discomfort)

This might sound obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing: friction without adequate lubrication can cause microtears in the vaginal tissue, which can not only hurt but can increase your risk of irritation, discomfort, and even infections.

If your body produces natural lubrication, it’s not always enough—especially during times of hormonal transition (like breastfeeding, menopause, or the luteal phase of your cycle). 

A high-quality lubricant helps things glide, so your body feels safe, soft, and supported instead of strained.

2. A Good Lube Supports Vaginal pH Balance

Your vaginal pH ranges between  3.8 - 4.5, which leans slightly acidic to support a healthy bacteria environment and prevent infections like yeast and BV (bacterial vaginosis). The wrong kind of lube (especially those packed with artificial fragrances or glycerin) can throw off this delicate balance. 

Look for lubes that are clear about their ingredients and pH levels on the package. It’s a bonus if they’re enriched with soothing ingredients like lotus root or hyaluronic acid. These options can hydrate without disrupting your microbiome.

3. Ingredients Matter

Many popular lubricants contain ingredients you wouldn’t want anywhere near your skin, let alone your most sensitive tissue. We’re talking about things like:

• Glycerin (can feed yeast)

• Petroleum-based ingredients (hard to wash off and can trap bacteria)

• Parabens, artificial fragrance, and propylene glycol

Your vaginal and vulvar tissues are incredibly absorbent, so what goes on them goes in you. Choose natural, organic, or medical-grade options whenever possible. Clean lube is just as important as clean skincare. Check out the Vira VETO list to understand which ingredients to avoid.

4. Lube Can Transform Intimacy (and Self-Connection)

Pleasure and comfort should never be at odds with each other. Lube enhances both.

Whether you’re with a partner or enjoying solo time, using a good lubricant can help:

• Make touch feel smoother and more sensual

• Enhance sensitivity (instead of numbing it like some numbing agents)

• Reduce anxiety or fear around dryness or pain

Lubricant can be a love letter to your body. It says, “I’m listening. I want you to feel good.”

5. Hormones can cause natural vaginal dryness, and it’s natural. 

Dryness is not a flaw—it’s a biological reality. Many women experience vaginal dryness during:

• The days before and after their period

• Postpartum and breastfeeding

• Perimenopause and menopause

• Times of stress or anxiety

• As a side effect of medications (including antidepressants and antihistamines)

Instead of pushing through discomfort or blaming your body, honor what it needs. Lube isn’t a last resort—it’s an empowering first step in reclaiming comfort and pleasure on your terms.

6. Not All Lubes Are Condom or Toy Safe

If you’re using condoms or silicone toys, you’ll want to be extra mindful of your lubricant choice:

• Oil-based lubes can degrade latex condoms and make them more likely to break.

• Silicone-based lubes shouldn’t be used with silicone toys—they can break down the material over time.

• Water-based lubes are usually safest for condoms, toys, and your body.

Check the label!

7. Lube is Part of Daily Self-Care

Who says lube is only for sex?

A gentle, hydrating lubricant can be used daily to ease vaginal dryness, support tissue health, or soothe irritation. Some clean lubes, like the SUTIL brands (here and here), double as vaginal moisturizers, helping keep your vulva and vaginal tissues soft and nourished. This is helpful to counteract any dryness during perimenopause and menopause.  

Think of it like your favorite lip balm, but for your vagina.

Choosing Your Ideal Lubricant 

When shopping for a lube, ask yourself these questions:

• Is it free from glycerin, parabens, and synthetic fragrance?

• Is it pH-balanced and body-safe? 

• Is it aligned with your values (organic, vegan, cruelty-free)?

• Does it feel good?

At Vira, we recommend keeping a go-to water-based lube for daily or partnered use, and exploring oil-based or silicone options (if toy-safe and compatible) when you want a longer-lasting glide.

We sell two versions from the SUTIL brand that answer all these questions with a yes.

Shop them here and here on our website.  

Lube Is Love

Using a good lubricant isn’t just about preventing pain or “fixing” dryness—it’s about tuning into your body’s wisdom and saying: you deserve ease, pleasure, and softness. Always.

It can enhance foreplay, and lube is essential for anal play. The anal canal does not lubricate itself, so it’s important to use lube during this intimate process. Silicone lubricant works best because it lasts longer than other lubes and is more slippery. SUTIL rich acts like silicone but is water-based, so there is less mess!

So next time you’re at the store or browsing online, don’t skip over the lube section. Pick one that respects your body, supports your wellness, and helps you feel more connected to your most powerful, pleasure-filled self.

With love,
Vira