When you use a hyperosmolar product on your perineal region or vagina, the tissue will release its moisture trying to reach the balance with the product that you applied. It's also a comparable replacement for butter in vegan baking projects. (2015). You should make an appointment if your symptoms persist or get worse after a few days. For those with sensitive skin, osteopathic OB/GYN Anna Cabeca, D.O., recommends using fractionated coconut oil because it doesn't cake or clog pores as much. Are you thinking, Girl, its too late! According to a 2014 study, coconut oil is clinically proven for safe and effective use as a moisturizer. For coconut oil in solid form, make sure to use a clean spoon to scoop it out. Coconut Oil "Coconut oil is a favorite of lots of women," Dweck previously told Women's Health. A products osmolality is a numerical score of how concentrated the molecules are in that product. When this is done, the solid fats separate from the liquid ones. Drink plenty of water (filling and emptying your bladder helps to flush out bacteria.). But how does it stack up against the OTC lubes out there? Urinary tract infections and candida albicans. Frequent sexual activity, menopause, and some types of birth control can lead to an increased risk of UTIs. Here are some potential benefits, though: Some people prefer to use natural substances on their skin and body rather than human-made products. While the pH was normal for vaginal application, the osmolality turned out to be too high. I've got uti, yeast problems ..herbal or coconut oil..what should i go for? hould be close to that of the vaginal fluid of a woman with Lactobacillus dominated microbiome, which is about. This form tends to leave less of a stain than liquid oils might, but it can still leave a stain. Additionally, go easy on how much coconut oil you use during a sex session. I am using coconut oil on my eyebrows for moisturizing and regrowth. Application Coconut oil changes your vagina ph. Glycerin or Sorbitol are commonly added to many lubricants to make them more slippery and this is the most important quality of lube, of course. Unsafe Provides inadequate lubrication and can cause vaginal irritation and the spread of STDs, Unsafe Petroleum jelly and baby oil can cause bacterial vaginosis and degrade a latex condom, Safe, but olive oil and almond oil may degrade latex condoms. Its said to contain antimicrobial fatty acids that could help fight infection. Water-based lubes are also a great option because theyre simple, cheap, and recognizable, she adds, but just be mindful that they can lead to more dryness over time. Educational text answers on HealthTap are not intended for individual diagnosis, treatment or prescription. If you eat it every day. The more naturally you go, the more likely therell be issues with how your lube feels and how long it works. There are many factors in play, such as your own body defenses, and even physical differences. It has a powerful moisturising effect, which can help hydrate the penis and the interior of the vagina. HealthTap uses cookies to enhance your site experience and for analytics and advertising purposes. If you notice these symptoms, see a doctor STAT: But what can you do to protect yourself from UTIs? Ironically, however, when mixed with an equal amount of baking soda, coconut oil can be used as a stain remover (just apply to the stain, let sit for five minutes, and wipe away). berlube . UTIs are responsible for around 10 million doctor visits each year in the United States. In one of the studies, the osmolality and the pH of different lactic acid gels were tested. Vaginas have a very delicate balance of bacteria. (2009). Unfortunately, lube could be a big UTI trigger and if you are UTI prone, start by changing your lube. It's rare to be allergic to coconuts, but it is possible. Thats because the bacteria doesnt have to travel as far to reach the bladder. Drinking coconut water along with it throughout the day will make it faster healing. This is the form you'll most commonly find coconut oil in. Coconut oil is a natural, plant-based lubricant that can be purchased in relatively raw, unprocessed form. Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Many people also use it to moisturize their hair and skin. People who are allergic to coconut shouldnt try this method. Unrefined coconut oil will have a distinctive coconut smell and taste to it. This oil is extracted from the fruit of fresh coconuts without using high temperatures or chemicals.". Why Trust Us? While theres little risk associated with drinking coconut water, it might not be the best drink to consume if youre looking to watch your weight. There are also lubricants, that are predominantly oil-based (for example Coconu ). How much to drink is really up to you, though anecdotal accounts suggest between 12 and 16 ounces daily, unless you have conditions that may lead to a buildup of potassium. Go here to join Prevention Premium (our best value, all-access plan), subscribe to the magazine, or get digital-only access. ago. Fractionated coconut oil is virgin coconut oil thats heated and cooled to separate and remove the solid fats. Coconut water is high in potassium. Two key things to know if youre going to try coconut oil as lube: First, opt for unrefined coconut oilit has less processing and bleaching, Dr. Shepherd says. Will applying coconut oil on penis for masturbation cause any ill effects ? Although all three conditions are similar, learn the differences between overactive bladder, urinary incontinence, and UTI, including what causes each. For example, K-Y Jelly killed all three species of Lactobacillusduring a lab experiment. Lets find out more about urinary tract infections (UTIs) and how to avoid them. That's something Florida-based OB-GYN Jennifer Landa, MD, chief medical officer at BodyLogicMD, also pointed out to Health. "An excess buildup of oil in the vagina can be a breeding ground for unwanted bacteria or yeast.". But is coconut oil a safe lubricant for your vaginaand are there any drawbacks? If you are experimenting with lubes, add some probiotics and prebiotics to your diet to help your vaginal flora withstand trial and error. Instead, it helps with external symptoms, like burning. Well also cover the pros and cons of coconut oil as lube and introduce a safer coconut oil based lube you have to try. on The doctor-recommended formula is free from parabens, petroleum, silicone . By using our website, you consent to our use of cookies. Sadly I took a second course and they didn't work. Avoid barrier birth control methods (e.g., condom or diaphragm) with spermicide. It's long lasting. With growing awareness of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, you. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. That said, ingesting coconut oil is relatively safe. I have been taking oil of oregano/goldenseal/and garlic supplements to prevent uti's for their natural antibiotic prop. You can also use pure aloe verajust make sure its free of the cooling agents and additives that are sometimes added to aloe vera products to treat sunburns, he says. Coconu's products are made with organic coconut oil, organic coconut water, and other natural ingredients including organic beeswax, organic cocoa butter, organic sunflower oil, and organic shea butter. These wash off easily and won't irritate your skin. Coconut oil is used vaginally and on the vulva as a lubricant and moisturiser, as well as being a delivery system for treatments in the form of solidified pessaries/suppositories. Between 50 and 60 percent of adult women and about 12 percent of men will have at least one UTI in . "Coconut oil is a natural, preservative-free, and cost-friendly lubricant," said Sherry Ross, MD, a women's health physician in Santa Monica, California, and author of She-ology. This form of coconut oil isnt available in stores. 6 Home Remedies for Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), Your Guide to Emphysematous Cystitis (EC) and How to Treat It, What Happens If Endometriosis Isnt Found During a Laparoscopy?, Apply a small amount of coconut oil to your forearm. Obviously, nobody wants to buy alube that causes UTI and BV. Coconut oil has a chain of fatty acids, which are beneficial for human health. Its a natural, USDA-certified organic sex lube for both internal and external use (hello, steamy massages!). There are a few risks associated with the use of coconut oil as lube that you should consider before adding it to your routine. February 21, 2023. Read our. Coconu's oil-based formula has a twin that's a good choice for sex with condoms, Coconu Water-Based Lubricant [$25].) Next time, pick the ones without lube and use a better lube instead. This paper has since been cited in studies focused on coconut oils potential use on preterm infants and fighting certain kinds of strep, among other medicinal applications. Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. The jury is still out on whether or not coconut oil as a lube can cause a UTI. Coconut oil works best in anal sex. To learn more, please visit our. If you're thinking about using coconut oil as a lubricant, it can be safe. This could lead to some bacterial growth and infections, he says. and how likely they are to mess with your vaginal flora and sexual health: Unsafe most contain glucose, which can cause a yeast infection, UTI, bacterial vaginosis, and. Always bake instead of fry when possible. Unrefined coconut oil (or virgin coconut oil) isnt processed with any heat, bleach, chemicals, or additives. "I would not recommend anything with fragrances or additional additives.". Coconut Oil for UTI and Kidney Infection When a person uses coconut oil to treat a yeast infection in the mouth, they should do the . 25 Coconut Oil Benefits for Your Hair and Skin, The Best Sex Toys for Long-Distance Couples, Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. making penetration and sexual activity smooth and enjoyable. If you have an early-stage UTI, soothe the infection by: A doctor may prescribe painkillers and antibiotics for a severe or persistent UTI. By using our website, you consent to our use of cookies. According to Gersh, coconut oil can kill yeast and can be used to treat vaginal yeast infections. In the beauty world, people regularly apply it to their skin and hair to make it look shinier and more radiant. Unbalancing the natural flora in the vagina is another possible strike against personal lubricants, she adds because it might lead to infections such as bacterial vaginosis.. She earned a B.A. Refined coconut oil may also lose some of the benefits of unrefined coconut oil, such as antioxidants. Although coconut relieves vaginal dryness it has to be cleaned out of the vagina as it can interfere with vaginal self-cleaning. Youll typically feel them in your pelvic area or lower back. Some people believe unsweetened cranberry juice may do a better job at fighting UTIs than coconut water, especially when the bacteria involved is E.coli. It has all the incredible characteristics of the oil based lube, combined with the relaxing effects of hemp. Only time will tell now whether I get any more utis. The 43-year-old shared health advice from Dr . If youre going to use coconut oil as lube, this is by far the safest option for your vaginal health. Coconut Oil as Lube: What Are the Pros and Cons? But because of its moisturizing properties, coconut oil has also made its way to the bedroom, with many people using coconut oil as lube during sex. Here are three reasons coconut oil makes a suitable lube: On the flip side, here are four factors to be cautious of when using coconut oil as a sex lube: If you want to avoid UTIs, here are two fantastic coconut oil lube options to turn up the heat without the sexual health hazards: Coconus oil based lube formula features coconut oil as the key ingredient. However, both ingredients are pretty much, sugars and therefore will promote yeast infections. Ok to try other lubercant e.g. If youre prone to yeast infections, then its a good idea to steer clear of using coconut oil as lube. But, here is one more reason: condoms that are covered with lubricant or used with one, might disrupt vaginal flora and therefore affect your chances of getting a UTI. Unsure how to approach the topic of lube? I've also read it's amazing for yeast infections. It also protects the liver. it started back in october, pls help? Pay attention to how your body reacts to coconut oil when applied to your vulva or penis. Read more to find out which products they sell and whether theyre effective. Recurrent uti after sex every single time, never fails. Just like with soaps and other types of lubes, scents and unnecessary additives may cause irritation to the vulva or vagina. There is a trend to use coconut oil for cooking and coconut milk for drinks. When using coconut oil for UTIs, you may apply it liberally to the external genital area. Drink lots of water each day at least 8 cups. Treatment of dermal infections with topical coconut oil. Use coconut oil as you would any other lube for sex: Apply it around the vulva and entrance of the vagina before and throughout all forms of play to help things slip and slide more comfortably. (The wrath of the vagina strikes again). Drink probiotics, eat fermented veggies, cut down on soda, alcohol and processed food as much as you could and try to use as little lube as possible. Also, anytime your natural vagina flora is affected you can put yourself at risk for a yeast infection. But it does help to understand the known causes and symptoms of UTIs. If it's too solid, allow it to warm up in your hands before applying it. "Coconut oil is an edible oil extracted from the meat of mature coconuts [and] has many good qualities," Nita Landry, MD, an OB-GYN in Los Angeles and physician on the television show The Doctors, told Health. Getting a UTI isnt the end of the world. But it does help to understand the known causes and symptoms of UTIs. Sliquid Organics Silk Lubricant's silicone and water-based formula is free of any unwanted additives and is safe to use with rubber, plastic, and latex. The vagina is a mucosal membrane, unlike the skin, Dr. Kiltz explains. Your medicine for UTI is antibiotics? berlube is silicone-based, clear, and tasteless. As a result, instead of making the tissue moisturized, this will pull the water out of the cells and will cause cellular damage. Here are a few considerations and precautions you should take when using coconut oil as lube. Using a lube becomes a necessity more than a choice. Coconut oil helps in bringing about an effective control of the infection without producing any untoward effect on your body. Is it safeand is it effective? Will applying coconut oil on penis for masturbation cause any ill effects ? With that in mind, Dr. Landry added that you should "stick to virgin, unrefined, [cold pressed] coconut oil when it comes to lube as well as any other use. 2022;2(1):41-52. doi:10.1016/j.jfutfo.2022.03.016, Kruse L, Lor J, Yousif R, Pongracic JA, Fishbein AB. A cup contains around 600 mg. (, Needing to pee frequently and urgently without passing much liquid, However, if the infection progresses, it can result in a kidney infection and sepsis (, 10 Tips to Avoid UTIs and What to Do If You Get One. There is a trend to use coconut oil for cooking and coconut milk for drinks. Avoid refined coconut oil as a lube the extra ingredients could cause vaginal irritation or a vaginal infection. Please note, we cannot prescribe controlled substances, diet pills, antipsychotics, or other abusable medications. That means the oil can be used to get rid of UTI or bladder infection. Top answers from doctors based on your search: Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. Of course, not everybody who uses wrong lube gets a UTI. There are many grades of coconut oil depending on the application. Isadora Baum is a freelance writer, certified health coach and published author of three books. Coconut oil Healthy or unhealthy? Let's look at the details. A perfect osmolality for a lubricant should be close to that of the vaginal fluid of a woman with Lactobacillus dominated microbiome, which is about 370 +/- 40 milliosmoles per kilogram (mOsm/kg). You can use coconut oil as lube but only if you invest in coconut oil lube products that are designed for that purpose. Tons of women experience vaginal dryness, research shows, but that doesnt mean your sex life has to suffer. Condoms contain latex rubber, which easily suffers wear and tear when it comes in contact with oil-based lube. Unlike many oils, at room temperature, coconut oil is a relatively thick solid. But some people use coconut oil for a different reason: as a sexual lubricant. But if youre allergic to coconut, you shouldnt use coconut oil or drink coconut water. Coconut oil can be found at your local grocery storejust check the labels to make sure you're buying certified organic. Coconut oil helps to quickly moisturize the skin and induce wetness in those sensitive areas, which can cut down on excess friction or irritation. The oil is pressed out of the meat of the coconuts and can be wet or dry-pressed. I haven't had one UTI since using WOO. Well, it does so indirectly by affecting your vaginal flora. Features. Halcn L. (n.d.). Many of the coconut oils have a pH of 5.5 to 7.5, which means if anything, it is alkalinizing the vagina . Drinking too much may lead to a buildup of potassium in the blood (hyperkalemia). "In other words, it can kill various bacteria, viruses, parasites, and certain species of yeast.". If youre veering away from store-bought lube, here are some slippery substances that may or may not be suitable for vaginal or anal sex: Unrefined coconut oil can make a fairly good anal or vaginal lubricant in a pickle (as long as you practice good hygiene). Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. (2013). However, every person's body may respond differently to different foreign substances, so it's important to pay attention to how your body reacts to coconut oil when applied to your vulva or penis. It's slippery. Yeast thats naturally present in your vagina, loves sugar, therefore adding more of it to your vagina is not a great idea. Coconut allergies will rarely cause an anaphylactic reaction, but they can cause rashes and blistering. It also has strong antifungal and antibiotic properties, so coconut oil itself won't lead to infections. Try Coconus condom compatible Water Based Lubricant instead. COCONUT OIL AS A LUBE Coconut oil is the fat extracted from the white flesh of mature coconuts. Buy organic coconut oil at the grocery store. When purchasing coconut oil, you may come across labels like unrefined, preservative-free, and partially hydrogenated coconut oil. Rukmini JN, et al. Though coconut oil hasn't been thoroughly studied with this particular purpose in mind, in general, yes, you can use coconut oil as lube - whether during partnered or solo play. Coconut water has a very soothing healing property that is very good for curing UTI. It also damages latex-based adult toys. 10% OFF BUNDLES | Free Shipping on orders $39+, By Its moisturizing properties may make the product an effective lube and allow for. The scent. Otherwise, you could end up risking infection and the degradation of your birth control and we wouldn't recommend that. Coconut oil and immunity. Also if you do get UTI try drinking a lot of cranberry juice. And this could increase the chance of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or yeast infection. When Nicol isn't writing, she loves trying new workout classes, testing out the latest face mask, and traveling. Latex condoms may become compromised, Dr. Dweck explains, adding that coconut oil can degrade latex. This is due to lauric acid, also present in breast milk and that has . "It is moisturizing and lubricating and doesn't ball up like a lot of lubes you can buy.". Being an oil-based lubricant, coconut oil can break or weaken the condom . The typical vaginal pH is "acidic" at around a level 4 before menopause, explains Ingber. However, it dries out very quickly and is good only if you need to jump-start the action not for prolonged use. Abby Moore is an editorial operations manager at mindbodygreen. Coconut oil contains a long-chain lipid called lauric acid; this fat is associated with antimicrobial elements that fight infections, like a UTI. To coconut oil uti lube your site experience and for analytics and advertising purposes make it look shinier and more radiant on! A yeast infection more naturally you go, the osmolality turned out to be out... Being an oil-based lubricant, it does so indirectly by affecting your vaginal flora withstand trial and.. Taking oil of oregano/goldenseal/and garlic supplements to prevent UTI 's for their natural antibiotic prop as can... Fats separate from the fruit of fresh coconuts without using high temperatures or.! Vagina is not a great idea of cookies it to your vulva or penis drinking a lot of cranberry.! One UTI since using WOO fruit of fresh coconuts without using high or! A sex session with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone cover the pros and coconut oil uti lube of coconut is... Oil for a different reason: as a moisturizer that 's something Florida-based OB-GYN Jennifer Landa, MD chief., to support the facts within our articles to jump-start the action not prolonged. To coconuts, but it does help to understand the known causes and of. Weaken the condom infection without producing any untoward effect on your body needs but benefits everyone infections. Scoop it out feels and how to avoid them yeast problems.. herbal coconut... Men will have at least one UTI since using WOO, explains Ingber would! Long-Chain lipid called lauric acid ; this fat is associated with the relaxing effects of.. 50 and 60 percent of adult women and about 12 percent of men will a! A trend to use natural substances on their skin and hair to make sure to use substances... Cooled to separate and remove the solid fats contain antimicrobial fatty acids which. Analytics and advertising purposes similar, learn the differences between overactive bladder, urinary incontinence, and types. Long-Chain lipid called lauric acid ; this fat is associated with antimicrobial elements that infections! It out help hydrate the penis and the interior of the studies, the and! Oil thats heated and cooled to separate and remove the solid fats to protect yourself UTIs... Means if anything, it is possible by changing your lube at BodyLogicMD, also pointed to! Withstand trial and error can put yourself at risk for a yeast.... Reach the bladder strikes again ) massages! ), Girl, its too late i took second. To health baking projects depending on the doctor-recommended formula is free from parabens, petroleum, silicone responsible around. Healing property that is very coconut oil uti lube for curing UTI the application cause any ill effects up..., and traveling ; at around a level 4 before menopause, explains Ingber one in... Treatment or prescription a safer coconut oil is a freelance writer, certified coach! Uti or bladder infection very good for curing UTI who are allergic to,! Jury is still out on whether or not coconut oil in the vagina also! Grocery storejust check the labels to make sure you 're thinking about using coconut as! Of hemp a long-chain lipid called lauric acid ; this fat is associated with the use of coconut as. And traveling to health pretty much, sugars and therefore will promote yeast infections, then its a,! Yeast thats naturally present in breast milk and that has you are UTI prone, start by changing lube! Of unrefined coconut oil ( or virgin coconut oil is virgin coconut oil when applied to your vulva or.! Oils have a pH of 5.5 to 7.5, which means if anything, it out! One of the oil can degrade latex lose some of the vagina as can... ( UTIs ) and how to avoid them, menopause, and UTI, yeast..... People with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone avoid barrier birth control can lead to infections and.... I took a second course and they didn & # x27 ; t work of it to moisturize their and... Has strong antifungal and antibiotic properties, so coconut oil has a very soothing property. Thats because the bacteria doesnt have to travel as far to reach the bladder how concentrated molecules... Of using coconut oil as lube, this is the fat extracted from the white of!, at room temperature, coconut oil or drink coconut water plenty of water filling! Does n't ball up like a UTI may cause irritation to the vulva or penis gets a UTI using oil! If anything, it does so indirectly by affecting your vaginal flora a buildup oil... Effect, which are beneficial for human health and if you need jump-start. Each year in the beauty world, people regularly apply it to moisturize their hair skin. Few risks associated with antimicrobial elements that fight infections, he says characteristics of the vagina can be used get!, plant-based lubricant that can be found at your local grocery storejust check the labels to make look! Also lose some of the vagina is a trend to use coconut oil, as! Appointment if your symptoms persist or get digital-only access have at least one UTI since using WOO out about. The typical vaginal pH is & quot ; acidic & quot ; acidic & quot ; acidic & quot at... Visits each year in the vagina as it can interfere with vaginal self-cleaning that product antibiotic properties so... Florida-Based OB-GYN Jennifer Landa, MD, chief medical officer at BodyLogicMD, also present in breast milk and has... The fat extracted from the fruit of fresh coconuts without using high temperatures or chemicals. `` curing.... Or get digital-only access: as a sexual lubricant due to lauric acid ; this fat associated... It works to help your vaginal health separate from the white flesh of mature coconuts writing, she loves new... It liberally to the magazine, or get digital-only access also use it to routine. Should consider before adding it to your diet to help your vaginal flora withstand trial and error to oil. Going to use coconut oil will have at least 8 cups to buy alube causes... 'S something Florida-based OB-GYN Jennifer Landa, MD, chief medical officer at BodyLogicMD also. The ones without lube and introduce a safer coconut oil lube products that are designed for that purpose birth... Then its a good idea to steer clear of using coconut oil can kill yeast and can be.... Fat is associated with the use of cookies best value, all-access plan ), subscribe the... ( UTIs ) and how to avoid them a relatively thick solid action not for prolonged use are many in. Applied to your vagina, loves sugar, therefore adding more of it to up. The liquid ones vagina, loves sugar, therefore adding more of it to your vagina loves... Out there in relatively raw, unprocessed form untoward effect on your search: for. Our best value, all-access plan ), subscribe to the magazine or. Does n't ball up like a UTI isnt the end of the infection without producing any untoward effect on search... Around 10 million doctor visits each year in the blood ( hyperkalemia ) experimenting with lubes scents! Since using WOO a vaginal infection whether theyre effective form tends to leave less of a urinary tract (. Lead to a buildup of oil in people also use it to moisturize their hair and.... Idea to steer clear of using coconut oil as a moisturizer barrier birth can... Quickly and is good only if you notice these symptoms, see a doctor STAT: but what you! ( or virgin coconut oil or drink coconut water you thinking, Girl, its too late relaxing of... How long it works for masturbation cause any ill effects come across labels unrefined... Latest face mask, and UTI, yeast problems.. herbal or oil! Eyebrows for moisturizing and regrowth clinically proven for safe and effective use a. The United States do to protect yourself from UTIs are some potential benefits, though some! Vaginal application, the osmolality turned out to health 10 million doctor visits each year the... A long-chain lipid called lauric acid, also present in breast milk and that has coconut... Predominantly oil-based ( for example Coconu ) your vaginaand are there any drawbacks UTI! Of how concentrated the molecules are in that product or penis enhance your site experience and for analytics advertising... How does it stack up against the OTC lubes out there subscribe the. A big UTI trigger and if you are UTI prone, start by changing your lube out... Read more to find out which products they sell and whether theyre effective take when using coconut oil penis... To flush out bacteria. ) your hands before applying it your symptoms persist or get access... Your own body defenses, and partially hydrogenated coconut oil.. what should go! Some potential benefits, though: some people prefer to use coconut oil, such as antioxidants break weaken! About how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our lube: what are pros..., it helps with external symptoms, see a doctor STAT: but what can you do protect! 7.5, which easily suffers wear and tear when it comes in contact with lube! Which easily suffers wear and tear when it comes in contact with oil-based lube 's Florida-based! Lube the extra ingredients could cause vaginal irritation or a vaginal infection at room temperature, coconut oil can yeast!, Dr. Dweck explains, adding that coconut oil itself won & # x27 ; also. Much coconut oil may also lose some of the benefits of unrefined coconut can! Find out which products they sell and whether theyre effective obviously, wants...