5 Tips to Keep Your Sex Life Toxin-Free
In this day and age, most people are aware of the dangerous effects of chemical ingredients in their environment and food, and many take necessary steps to limit the amount of toxins they are exposed to in their day-to-day lives. But have you ever considered for a minute that chemical ingredients related to your sex life could be equally as (if not more!) harmful to your long-term health and well-being? Not to worry - we’ve compiled a list of tips to help you avoid the dangers of sneaky chemicals that could be finding their way into your bedroom.
Keep reading for five tips to keep your sex life toxin-free!
Know Which Ingredients to Avoid
Incorporating lube into your sex life can be a real game changer. Unfortunately, not all lubricants- or any personal intimacy products, for that matter- are created equal. Most lubes today contain a number of toxic ingredients that can not only cause irritation, but could severely impact your health. In fact, many of the bestselling varieties of lubricant contain some of the same ingredients that are also used in antifreeze, brake fluid, and even oven cleaner-- YUCK.
Here are six common lube ingredients to avoid:
Glycerin
A form of sugar, glycerin is also a humectant, meaning it attracts moisture to your skin. Too much of this sugar alcohol, however, can contribute to bacterial growth and lead to unwanted side effects, like yeast infections and UTIs.
Petroleum or petroleum-based ingredients
These oily, sticky substances can coat your skin and interfere with its normal functions and pH levels, leading to a higher chance of infection. Petroleum-based ingredients are found in many common multipurpose lubricants, such as petroleum jelly, and most flavored or warming-sensation lubricants.
Propylene glycol
This potentially toxic ingredient can cause some women to experience vaginal irritation or inflammation. It is also found in some frequently used over-the-counter lubricants– as well as some types of antifreeze.
Parabens
Many people have had bad experiences with lubes that burn or itch, or feel really sticky during or after use. This is commonly the result of synthetic preservatives known as parabens. Parabens are thought to mimic the effects of estrogen in your tissues, messing with hormone levels and potentially even increasing the risk of breast cancer.
Chlorhexidine gluconate
Commonly found in multipurpose lubricants, this slightly caustic antibacterial can kill off good bacteria in the vagina, triggering inflammation and irritation for some women.
Nonoxynol-9
A spermicide found in some lubricants, nonoxynol-9 has been shown to cause abrasions, lesions, and micro tears in the vagina. The chemical can also kill both good and bad bacteria, which can lead to irritation, as well as increase the chance of contracting an STD or getting an infection.
Clean Out Your Cabinet
Odds are, you have products currently sitting in your drawer or medicine cabinet at home that contain some of the harmful chemicals listed above. Now that you know what to avoid, consult the labels on the products you’re using and make a pledge to toss out anything containing toxic ingredients that could negatively impact your reproductive health and well-being. Your body will thank you!
Read Labels Before You Buy
Next time you’re on the market for a new intimacy product or personal lubricant, make sure to double check the labels on the products you buy. If a product contains ingredients you’ve never heard of (or worse, that you can’t even pronounce!), chances are you don’t want it coming in contact with the delicate tissue of your vagina. Look for natural, organic products that won’t cause the same harsh side effects as some common over-the-counter products. That being said...
Opt for Non-toxic Condoms, Sex Toys & Lubricants
It may or may not surprise you to learn that many popular store-bought condoms and sex toys also contain toxic ingredients similar to those found in lubricants. Make the switch to non-toxic, organic condoms, sex toys, and lubricants (GLYDE condoms, We-Vibe toys, and Good Clean lubricants are among our favorites)- and feel reassured that you’re doing the most to support your sexual health.
Good Clean Love Almost Naked Organic Personal Lubricant is a water-based lube made with aloe vera and infused with a touch of lemon and vanilla, giving it a light organic flavor. This organic Good Clean Love personal lubricant is designed for the most sensitive skin types. Almost Naked Personal Lubricant is formulated to provide a long-lasting glide without all the irritating chemical additives and sticky cleanup associated with conventional lubricants. Good sex isn’t about side effects. Respect the most sensitive tissues in your body with organic ingredients and enhance your love life naturally.
Detoxify Your Bedroom
Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about the place where it all goes down. Your bedroom is one of the most sacred spaces in your home, so why not take steps to keep it toxin-free, too? In truth, you may be introducing toxins into your bedroom without even realizing it. Many common air fresheners contain nerve-numbing chemical ingredients or fragrances which keep you from detecting smells. Toxins such as these can really take a toll on your libido, and can even interrupt your sleep (which, let’s be honest, we could all use a little more of). Crack a window to air things out and make an effort to move all chemical fragrances and perfumes to another room. You can also try burning essential oils or using natural, organic room fragrances that don’t emit toxic fumes.
At the end of the day, taking care of your body is one of the best things you can do to support your overall health and well-being. Be mindful of the products you’re using, and, when possible, be sure to choose products that contribute to helping you live your best life- sexual and otherwise. Follow these five steps and join the Non Toxic Revolution today!