Did you know lube has been shown to improve women’s sexual pleasure? Here are our top three picks.

By Sabrina Rogers-Anderson

Am I the only one who refused to use lube for years because I thought I was a failure as a woman if I couldn’t produce enough on my own? That’s one of the many misinformed stories I told myself about sex when I was younger. Live and learn!

If you read my vaginal moisturiser review, you’ll know I have a desert-like situation going on down there thanks to chemo-induced menopause. While the moisturiser goes a long way towards helping me stay lubricated, I sometimes need an extra boost during extended sessions between the sheets.

Since I’ve started using lube, sex is more comfortable and enjoyable. And science even shows that lube can increase female sexual pleasure.

Before I reveal my top choices, here’s a crash course on the main types of lubes:

• Water-based lube: This popular type of lube isn’t messy and is compatible with condoms and sex toys, but it evaporates quickly.
• Silicone-based lube: It’s silky, long-lasting, water-resistant and won’t damage condoms, but you’ll need to wash it off with soap and it can stain clothing and sheets. Avoid using it with silicone sex toys because it can damage them.
• Oil-based lube: Oil-based lubes are also longer-lasting than water-based ones and water-resistant, but they can make a mess of your sheets and may cause yeast infections in some women when used for penetrative sex. They can’t be used with latex condoms or sex toys.
• Hybrid lubes: A mix of water and silicone, they last ages without being messy. They’re safe with condoms, but not sex toys.

I prefer to stick to water-based and silicone lubes because I’m prone to irritation. Here are my top three choices at different price points.

Entry level: Durex Strawberry Lube

In terms of cost-effectiveness and convenience, Durex Strawberry is a winner. You can find it at any chemist or supermarket for under $10. It works as well as the next water-based lube, but I can’t say I’m a fan of the slightly nauseating fake strawberry scent and taste. Although you may not want to listen to me - some reviewers love it!

I’m prone to yeast infections and I had a couple of small flare-ups after using this lube for a while. I looked into it and found out that the main ingredient, glycerin, may cause thrush. But if this isn’t a problem you struggle with, you can likely use Durex Strawberry without issues.

Pros: Affordable and available everywhere.

Cons: The fake strawberry scent and the glycerin that can cause an overgrowth of yeast in some people.

Price: $7.99 for 100ml

Mid range: YES WB Water-Based Lubricant

I’m a huge fan of YES’s vaginal moisturiser, so I was keen to try the lube too. It certainly didn’t disappoint! A little goes a long way, and it feels natural, isn’t messy and doesn't have any odour or taste.

I love that it’s made with several certified organic ingredients, including aloe vera, flax seed extract, guar gum and locust bean gum, and none of the other ingredients are potentially irritating. It gives a sensitive gal like me peace of mind knowing my most precious parts are protected.

Pros: It’s made with natural, pH-balanced ingredients that won’t irritate your bits.

Cons: You’ll have to plan ahead and buy it online.

Price: $26.95 for 100ml tube

Luxe: Uberlube

I’ll admit I had my doubts about any lube living up to the “luxury” tagline, but Uberlube delivers in spades. The texture is super-silky, it doesn’t become sticky or leave a residue, and it’s completely odour-free. 

A couple of pumps from the sleek and discreet travel cartridge were enough to last through an extra-steamy sesh. Best of all, it doesn't contain any irritating glycerin or parabens, making it safe for delicate vaginas.

Pros: The texture is second to none and you only need to use a small amount, making it worth the higher price tag. And would you believe you can also use it as an anti-chafe for sport and as a serum for your hair?! 

Cons: It may damage silicone sex toys.

Price: $39.95 for 112ml