Using sexual lubricants during sexual intercourse, masturbation and for use with sex toys enhances the experience for most people. The slippery texture of a lubricant adds to the sensual feel of almost any sexual encounter with a partner or when you are engaged in self-pleasure. It can also help those women who's bodies don't manufacture enough natural lubricant.

Studies of women that use sex toys report that women found using a lubricant with their favorite vibrator greatly enhanced the experience. With all the new male sex toys available today, the same increased pleasure can be enjoyed by men when adding a lube when using many sex toys. Lubrication makes toys glide sensually in, out and about. However, be sure to choose a lube that doesn't damage you or your erotic sex toys.

It is very important to use the correct lubricant for the sexual activity and other sexual items involved. Certain lubricants disintegrate condoms, others will destroy sex toys, some work better for anal sex and others are preferred for masturbation.

There are four types of lubricants: Water-based, petroleum-based, those made from natural oils, and silicone-based. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.

Water-based Lubes: These are the most versatile, safe and popular lubricants for all situations. Typically made of de-ionized water, glycerin, and propylene glycol, they are safe to use with condoms and all forms of barrier birth control. It is rare that water-based lubricants cause irritation, and they don't stain clothing. They are safe to ingest, and they come in both flavored and unflavored varieties'using one of the many flavors available can add to the pleasure of oral sex. They tend to dry out over extended periods, but a little water or saliva will get you slick again.

Petroleum-based lubes: These include Vaseline products, mineral oil products and baby oil. Unfortunately, these products all destroy latex, so they cannot be used with condoms, cervical caps or diaphragms. In addition, they can inflame and irritate the vagina. They also stain clothing. Petroleum-based lubes do tend to last well, so they are often used by men during masturbation.

Natural oil-based lubes: These are derived from natural oil sources such as nuts or vegetables. Like petroleum-based lubes, they too destroy latex (condoms, diaphragms and cervical caps) and stain clothing. However, they do have one key advantage over petroleum-based lubes: they don't cause vaginal irritation. This makes them excellent for female [and male] masturbation, unprotected vaginal intercourse, and for massage.

Silicone-based lubes: These have the benefits of water-based lubricants with the addition of being waterproof, so they may be used in the bath, or the Jacuzzi, or... In addition, they tend to lubricate longer than water-based lubes. Silicone will not hurt latex, so they're safe with condoms and other forms of barrier birth control; however, they can affect adult toys made from silicone.

So, pick a personal lubricant that's compatible with your sexual activity and any birth control or sex toys you are using. There are many companies manufacturing each type of sexual lubricant, so if you don't like the consistency, scent or other qualities of one lube you have plenty of other choices. Enjoy yourself!