Its multi-purpose use means that it can be manufactured and sold as a commodity, driving down the price substantially. Coconut allergies will rarely cause an anaphylactic reaction, but they can cause rashes and blistering. Currently an assistant editor at Prevention.com, Nicol is a Manhattan-based journalist who specializes in health, wellness, beauty, fashion, business, and lifestyle. If you're a person prone to urinary tract infections (UTI), check out our top picks for the best at-home test kits. 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. I am using coconut oil on my eyebrows for moisturizing and regrowth. However, there are some cons to using coconut oil as a lubricant, like its potential to break latex condoms and cause infections or allergic reactions. "One of my favorite natural lubricants is extra virgin coconut oil," said Dr. Landa. Coconut oil is oil based which can put your as risk for a biofilm in your vagina and therefore at risk for recurrent bacterial infections. Uti is common in some women post vigorous intercourse, sometimes called "honeymoon cystitis". One of the biggest selling points of coconut oil is its affordability. However, as with any cosmetic product, youll need to balance natural ingredients and the lube performance. Try Coconus Oil Based Singles theyre single packets you can pop in your handbag for safe, on-the-go action! Getting a UTI isnt the end of the world. Candida is a fungus naturally found in the vagina, though its overgrowth is typically what causes yeast infections. Her work has appeared in Womens Health, Good Housekeeping, Womans Day, Houston Chronicle, Business Insider, INSIDER, Everyday Health, and more. Nonetheless, coconut oil has risen in popularity as a plant-based alternative to many products. Its just, well, watered down. If you are experimenting with lubes, add some probiotics and prebiotics to your diet to help your vaginal flora withstand trial and error. I've never been prone to them before. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. While antibacterial and antifungal properties may sound like a good thing, bacteria and fungi naturally live in the vagina and often promote vaginal health. Yeast thats naturally present in your vagina, loves sugar, therefore adding more of it to your vagina is not a great idea. Lets be clear: bacteria cause UTI when they reach your urethra. Manufacturers may add an ingredient or two (think preservatives) that arent good for sensitive vaginal tissue. UTIs are responsible for around 10 million doctor visits each year in the United States. Behzadi P, et al. A UTI starts in the lower urinary tract and causes uncomfortable symptoms like: However, if the infection progresses, it can result in a kidney infection and sepsis (Yikes!). Get prescriptions or refills through a video chat, if the doctor feels the prescriptions are medically appropriate. Nutiva Coconut Oil $8 at Amazon 8. Coconut oil has many usesas cooking oil, facial moisturizer, and makeup remover. A cup of coconut water contains around 46 calories. A researcher involved in the study hypothesized that its likely that the beneficial bacteria died because of the ingredient chlorhexidine, an antibacterial agent. is a measurement of the total number of solutes in a liquid solution expressed in osmoles of solute particles per kilogram of solvent (osmol/kg). could these cause cloresterol problems? Coconut oil's moisturizing effect, though, simulates the feeling of your body's own natural lubrication, so you don't get any of that overly slick feeling. 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. I've got uti, yeast problems ..Herbal or coconut oil..What should I go for? On the flip side, here are four factors to be cautious of when using coconut oil as a. Theres not a lot of concrete proof of this claim. However, these are the ingredients you may want to avoid. Is It Safe to Use You Electric Toothbrush as a Vibrator? Next time, pick the ones without lube and use a better lube instead. Answer: Coconut oil's UTI-causing properties are still being studied, but studies have found that coconut oil can increase the activity of enzymes in the vagina called lactic acid bacteria, which promote urinary tract health. Fish oil contain vitamin D and no need for separate vit D! Coconut oil for urinary tract infections can be applied topically to help alleviate symptoms like burning or can be consumed as part of your food. More research is needed before this method can be hailed as a tried and true treatment. Coconut oil Healthy or unhealthy? The coconut oil base made it seem like a more natural product, so I immediately assumed it would get along with my vagina and my favorite vibrator, The Perfect Match by Sweet Vibrations. If you are too, USE COCONUT OIL AS NATURAL LUBE. So before grabbing a handful of coconut oil and having sex, read up on the facts, pros, and cons so you can make an informed decision. Avoid refined coconut oil as a lube the extra ingredients could cause vaginal irritation or a vaginal infection. Coconut water is able to cure urinary tract infection and it can also dissolve kidney stones. Sexual Trans Dis. They'll. Coconut Oil as Lube: What Are the Pros and Cons? Unrefined coconut oil is simply the oil from coconuts that has had no further processing other than what is done to extract the oil. Halcn L. (n.d.). I really struggled with getting a urinary tract infection under control for a couple of months. [the] team also found that hyperosmolar lubricants and spermicidal gels killed microbes commonly found in the vagina. Mike in CO. FrostyBud777 1 min. "Partially hydrogenated and [some] refined coconut oils contain additives that can be irritating or even leave the skin dryer than before," explained Dr. Landry. If you're prone to yeast infections, then it's a good idea to steer clear of using coconut oil as lube. Virgin coconut oil that has not been overprocessed is a better choice than nonvirgin coconut oil. Without medical attention, the infection may lead to recurrent infections or kidney damage. 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. (The wrath of the vagina strikes again). We avoid using tertiary references. You need to take 3 tablespoons of coconut oil three times a day. Joshi S, et al. It also protects the liver. Can You Use Coconut Oil As A Lube? A cup contains around 600 mg. Wear clean, breathable underwear (cotton is your friend). Clinical and personal lubricants impact the growth of vaginal lactobacillus species and colonization of vaginal epithelial cells: an in vitro study. Coconut water for UTI: is able to cure urinary tract infections and bladder infection as it makes you stay hydrated, it can flush bacteria through your bladder and urethra and it can also dissolve kidney stones. By using our website, you consent to our use of cookies. You may need medication from your doctor. "If you are going to try coconut oil [as a] lube, be sure to only use a small amount," said Dr. Landry. So there you have it, coconut oil is definitely safe to use as a stand-in or full-on replacement for your more familiar water-based lubricants. And bacterial vaginosis, in its turn, linked to UTIs. Go here to join Prevention Premium (our best value, all-access plan), subscribe to the magazine, or get digital-only access. Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Features. The normal pH of the vagina is acidic, and coconut oil can make it an alkaline environment, resulting in a disturbance of bacteria that can also lead to issues like bacterial vaginosis. You should make an appointment if your symptoms persist or get worse after a few days. These are easy to use and have other oils added to maintain viscosity. It Is An Oil-Based Lubricant. Unrefined coconut oil will have a distinctive coconut smell and taste to it. Video chat with a U.S. board-certified doctor 24/7 in less than one minute for common issues such as: colds and coughs, stomach symptoms, bladder infections, rashes, and more. The American Heart Association recommends limiting saturated fat each day to just 13 grams, so you may want to consume it sparingly. You could also make your own DIY lubricant, using equal parts fractionated coconut oil and equal parts aloe vera. Research shows its higher in vitamin E and other bioactive ingredients. .css-el2e3v{background-color:#44C1C5;border-radius:0;color:#000;display:inline-block;font-family:AvantGarde,Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;font-size:0.75rem;font-weight:700;line-height:1;margin-top:0;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;text-decoration-color:inherit;text-decoration-thickness:0.0625rem;text-transform:uppercase;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;-webkit-transition:background 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:background 0.3s ease-in-out;width:auto;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-el2e3v{padding:0.625rem 1.25rem 0.75rem;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-el2e3v{padding:0.8125rem 1.25rem 0.75rem;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-el2e3v{padding:0.8125rem 1.25rem 0.75rem;}}.css-el2e3v:focus-visible{outline-color:body-cta-btn-link-focus;}.css-el2e3v:hover{color:#fff;text-decoration-color:border-link-body-hover;background-color:#088092;}FOLLOW PREVENTION ON INSTAGRAM. GREAT for preventing UTI's. Just saying. Its still a good idea to check with your doctor about the need for antibiotics or other approaches, as use of coconut oil should not replace medical advice. It appears, there are multiple options: There is a variety of water-based lubes that will keep your vaginal flora intact. If it causes any irritation or discomfort, discontinue use. Coconut oil has been used as a moisturiser for centuries, and studies prove its effectiveness: a 2019 paper from the Journal of Traditional and Complimentary Medicines found coconut oil suppressed inflammatory markers and enhanced skin barrier function, while a 2004 paper from the Dermatitis journal reported that coconut oil improved skin hydration in people with the skin condition xerosis. Vaginas have a very delicate balance of bacteria. I would highly recommend the oil as it's cheaper too. The oil is made of up to 92 percent saturated fat, and each tablespoon contains around 11 grams of saturated fat. level which is associated with an eight-fold increase in vaginal infections. It's slick, and because it's a natural product, it's appealing. When Nicol isn't writing, she loves trying new workout classes, testing out the latest face mask, and traveling. You should finish all antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. Coconut water is the liquid inside an immature coconut. Coconut oil has a basic pH (5.5-7.5) and antibacterial properties. Her writing has appeared in print and on websites for Allrecipes, Livestrong, Well+Good, Women's Health, Men's Health, Self, PopSugar, Cooking Light, Health, EatingWell, Shape, Prevention and more. Follow her on Instagram for the latest on health, wellness, and lifestyle. Here are several well-rated options on Amazon: Of course, you can go with regular oil, which also has its pros and cons. For potential or actual medical emergencies, immediately call 911 or your local emergency service. So, use a spoon to scoop it out (and no matter what: wash your hands!). When using coconut oil for UTIs, you may apply. In a nutshell: Coconut oil is generally a safe option to use as lube. It will not cause any ill effects. Coconu's oil-based formula has a twin that's a good choice for sex with condoms, Coconu Water-Based Lubricant [$25].) Make your romp even hotter with our guide to. The scent. Could coconut oil cause an yeast infection infection. It also results in an oil with a higher smoke point than unrefined coconut oil. Coconut oil and immunity. Coconut oil will make many birth control methods ineffective. You taking too much vitamins. Gwyneth Paltrow tells Goop readers to use COCONUT OIL in bed to avoid infections as she enlists a doctor to dole out lubricant and condom advice. She received her M.D. When it's disrupted, an infection can ensue. Apply heat to help with bladder pressure and pain. (2020). This is the form you'll most commonly find coconut oil in. What do we really know about it so far? And it's a lot freaking cheaper than the other high-end lubes on the market. Of course, not everybody who uses wrong lube gets a UTI. Image . 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. Why It's Not Safe To Use Saliva as a Lubricant During Sex, Anal Orgasms Are Real Here's How to Have One, The 14 Best Hemorrhoid Creams and Treatments of 2023, 10 Causes of Pain After Sex And What to do About It, 5 Reasons Your Vagina Is Having an Allergic Reaction, Why Does Sex Have a Smell? (n.d.). Its said to contain antimicrobial fatty acids that could help fight infection. Just note that coconut oil is readily absorbed by the skin and may not stay slick, Gilberg-Lenz says, which may contribute to friction, pain, and tissue damage. Coconut oil may not be your thing, but if you want to stay the natural route, you have some options, like olive or avocado oil. There are mixed reports about whether pure coconut oil is safe to use as an anal or vaginal lubricant. So before using it, test it out by applying a small amount of coconut oil to your inner forearm and wait a few minutes to see if there's any reaction. However, it should only be used on the external genital area. Coconut oil works best in anal sex. Since a UTI is located in the bladder, using this oil topically wont necessarily stop the infection. Contemplating coconut oil lube for sensual solo play? Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. 10% OFF BUNDLES | Free Shipping on orders $39+, By HealthTap uses cookies to enhance your site experience and for analytics and advertising purposes. It also damages latex-based adult toys. There are a few risks associated with the use of coconut oil as lube that you should consider before adding it to your routine. 6 Possible Reasons Your Husband Doesnt Want Sex, The Best Vibrators for Every Type of Woman, What to Do When You Want Sex at Different Times. Add Gift Wrap Add Gift Wrap ($4) People Also Bought The Teaser $38.00 Add to Cart The Quickie Kit $44.00 Add to Cart Awaken + Lube Bundle $78.00 $92.00 Add to Cart Apply Shipping Warranty for Final Thoughts On Using Coconut Oil As Lube. Journal of Future Foods. It is also suitable for preventing vaginal dryness. That said, there are no clinical studies that specifically test the benefits of using coconut oil as lube. Anecdotal reports suggest it can be used in several ways. For what it's worth, all fluids (not just coconut oil) that come near the vagina can potentially affect its pH too. "It is moisturizing and lubricating and doesn't ball up like a lot of lubes you can buy.". Drinking coconut water along with it throughout the day will make it faster healing. Regardless of how you use it, coconut oil is unlikely to further aggravate your UTI. Read on to learn more about how it may work, how to use it, and potential side effects. Pop in your vagina, loves sugar, therefore adding more of it your. And prebiotics to your vagina is not a great idea to them before read on to learn more about it! To the magazine, or get worse after a few days, how to use as lube common some... Linked to UTIs adding it to your routine control for a couple of months,... Or coconut oil three times a day for safe, on-the-go action and Cons ingredient two. Wont necessarily stop the infection also make your own DIY lubricant, using oil... Have a distinctive coconut smell and taste to it parts aloe vera use as anal. Bacteria cause UTI when they reach your urethra separate vit D, wellness, and each tablespoon contains 46. 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May lead to recurrent infections or kidney damage and bacterial vaginosis, its. Acids that could help fight infection coconut water contains around 46 calories lube that you should make an appointment your...