If you’re trying to get pregnant, you’re probably having a lot more sex than usual. Sex is great, but sometimes you might need a little extra lubrication. Many couples trying to conceive (TTC) experience vaginal dryness, making sex uncomfortable.
Unfortunately, many commercially available lubricants can harm sperm, which can affect your fertility. Regular lube may reduce how well sperm move, lowering the chance that they’ll reach the egg.
That’s where fertility-friendly lubricants come in. The best fertility lubricant is designed to be safe for sperm, eggs, and embryos and doesn’t include ingredients that could limit fertilization.
Understanding Fertility Lubricants: What Makes Them Different?
So, what’s the deal with fertility lubricants? Are they just a marketing gimmick, or do they actually make a difference when you’re trying to conceive?
Defining Fertility Lubricants
The FDA is starting to pay attention, and some lubricants are now being labeled as “fertility-safe” or “sperm-safe.” If you see an FDA-cleared “fertility lubricant” (they fall under the PEB category), it means it’s been specifically tested to ensure it won’t harm sperm.
The whole point of these lubricants is to support sperm health, not hinder it, especially if you are considering options like transporting sperm for IVF. They’re designed to create an environment where sperm can survive and swim freely, increasing the chances of fertilization.
Key Characteristics of Fertility-Friendly Lubricants
What exactly makes a lubricant “fertility-friendly?” Here are a few key things to look for:
- pH balance: They mimic the pH of semen and cervical fluid (semen’s ideal pH is between 7.2 and 8.2) to protect sperm.
- Osmolality: This refers to the concentration of particles in the lubricant. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends lubricants stay below 300 mOsm/kg (though they set an upper limit of 1200 mOsm/kg). Most PEB lubricants fall in the 260 mOsm/kg to 400 mOsm/kg range. Too high, and it can dehydrate and damage sperm.
- Avoiding harmful ingredients: Steer clear of ingredients like glycerin, parabens, and silicones. Glycerin, in particular, can slow sperm down, block their path, or even harm them.
Ingredients to avoid in regular lubricants and their impact on fertility
While many lubricants are available, some contain ingredients that can negatively impact fertility. Here’s a breakdown of what to watch out for:
Glycerine: potential harm to sperm
Some studies show that glycerine can damage sperm in a lab setting.
Parabens: disrupting sperm function
Research suggests that parabens, often used as preservatives in commercial lubricants, can also damage sperm in a lab setting. It’s best to avoid lubricants with ingredients that can penetrate the skin, such as glycerol, as well as those containing paraben preservatives.
pH Imbalance: creating a hostile environment
A healthy vaginal pH is slightly acidic, but sperm thrive in a more alkaline environment. Lubricants with a low pH can create a hostile environment for sperm. Sperm can survive for up to 5 days in fertile mucus, but they can die within hours in acidic mucus.
Other Potentially Harmful Ingredients
- Silicones: Some worry about the impact of silicones on sperm penetration.
- Household oils: Skip the Crisco or baby oil. These can contain toxins that could be harmful.
Top Fertility-Friendly Lubricant Brands: A Detailed Comparison
So, you’re ready to shop. Here’s the lowdown on some of the most popular fertility-friendly lubricants on the market. I’ve included pH and osmolality information, so you can compare these values to what’s considered optimal for conception.
Pre-Seed Fertility Lubricant
Pre-Seed was developed by doctors and even received funding from the National Institute of Health. A 2014 in vitro study found that Pre-Seed was the least harmful to sperm compared to other lubricants. Its pH is between 7.0 and 7.4, and its osmolality is 260-370 mOsm/kg.
Conceive Plus Fertility Lubricant
Conceive Plus is a reasonably priced option that’s sold in single tubes or individual applicators. Its pH is between 7.0 and 7.6, and its osmolality is 290-400 mOsm/kg.
Natalist The Lube
Natalist The Lube is relatively new, but it’s already easy to find at major retailers. People love its texture, describing it as neither too slippery nor too sticky. It has a pH of 3.8 – 4.2 and an osmolality of 300-400 mOsm/kg.
BabyDance Fertility Lubricant
BabyDance Fertility Lubricant boasts a pH that matches the pH of both cervical mucus and semen. It currently has a 4 out of 5 stars rating on Amazon. Its pH is 7, and its osmolality is 300 mOsm/kg.
Other Notable Options
Here are a few more fertility-friendly lubricants to consider:
- Good Clean Love Biogenesis Fertility Lubricant: This option is organic and paraben-free.
- LOLA Fertility Friendly Lubricant: You can find this silky-textured lubricant at your local drugstore.
- Penchant Organic: This lubricant has a high rating on Amazon, but it’s not yet FDA-approved.
How to Choose the Best Fertility-Friendly Lubricant
Choosing the right fertility lubricant can feel overwhelming. Here’s what to consider:
- Look for FDA approval and PEB certification. Using an FDA-cleared lubricant is the safest bet for sperm health. Double-check the packaging for FDA approval.
- Consider pH and osmolality. Make sure the lubricant is pH-balanced and isotonic. Understanding the chemical composition (pH, osmolality) is key to ensuring sperm aren’t harmed.
- Read the ingredient list closely. Avoid lubricants with glycerin, silicones, and parabens.
- Explore different options and read reviews. Check other sites for reviews of sperm-friendly lubricants. It might take trying a few to find the perfect one.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make my body more fertile to get pregnant?
There are many things you can do to boost your fertility. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are all important. Managing stress and getting enough sleep can also positively impact fertility.
What pill makes you more fertile?
Clomiphene citrate (Clomid) is a common medication used to stimulate ovulation in women who are having trouble getting pregnant. It works by blocking estrogen, which can trigger the release of hormones that stimulate the ovaries. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any medication to boost fertility.
Is KY Jelly safe when trying to conceive?
No, traditional KY Jelly is generally not recommended when trying to conceive. It can create a barrier to sperm motility and may negatively impact fertility. That’s why choosing a fertility-friendly lubricant is essential.
What is the best natural lubricant for fertility?
While there isn’t one universally “best” natural lubricant, some people find success with options like coconut oil or aloe vera. However, it’s crucial to ensure the product is pure, unrefined, and doesn’t contain any potentially harmful additives. Fertility-friendly lubricants are specially formulated to support sperm health and motility.
When to start putting oil on a pregnant belly?
Many women start applying oil to their pregnant belly in the second trimester, around the time the belly starts to expand noticeably. There’s no strict rule, and you can begin earlier if you wish. The goal is to keep the skin moisturized and potentially reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
In Summary
When you’re trying to conceive, it’s really important to choose the right lubricant. In fact, fertility-friendly lube is a fast-growing part of the lube market these days.
Keep in mind that fertility lubricants aren’t a guarantee that you’ll get pregnant. They are tools, similar to products like EU Natural Conception, that may support your efforts. Fertility-friendly lube is made without ingredients that are likely to damage sperm, but it’s not a treatment for infertility.
And while “fertility-friendly” or “sperm-friendly” lube is proven to be less damaging to sperm, it’s not a guarantee of conception.
For personalized advice about conception and fertility, including the potential benefits of a fertility blend for men, you and your partner may wish to consult with a healthcare professional. A fertility resource guide may also help you on your conception journey.
There are a lot of reputable products on the market now, which has led the FDA to create a label denoting which products pass their safety standards. Choosing one of those may give you some additional peace of mind.