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Sex Ed 102: Everything You Need To Know About Diaphragms

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What is a diaphragm?

The diaphragm is a dome shaped cup with a flexible rim. It’s made of silicone or latex and is designed to stop sperm from entering the uterus and fallopian tubes in order to prevent an unintended pregnancy. To be more specific, it’s a reversible barrier method of birth control.

I personally suggest silicone because it lasts longer, is easy to care for, and won’t absorb odors, bodily fluids, or bacteria. The other reason I suggest silicone is that it is latex free, so for those of you that have latex allergies, or for those of you not sure if you have a latex allergy, it’s a good option.

Where can I get a diaphragm ?

Unfortunately you’re not able to buy them at a store or online like condoms. Instead, you need to get fitted for one by your health care provider to make sure that it’s the right size for your body and won’t allow any room for sperm to pass.

During your fitting your health care provider should show you how to use it properly and allow you to practice in the office, checking once inserted, to make sure you did it correctly.

If they don’t offer, please know there is nothing to be embarrassed about and you have every right to ask. The effectiveness of any birth control method always stands in using it perfectly. That said, it’s always better to be safe then sorry.

When it comes to using your diaphragm there are a few things that I suggest:

Always make sure your hands are clean before handling it, you don’t want to transfer any bacteria which could cause an infection.

Hold your diaphragm up to a light or place a small amount of water in it to check for cracks or holes before use, if you do find any don’t use it.

If you’re using a silicone diaphragm do not use a silicone lubricant and make sure your hands are free of any silicone as it may break down the product.

If you’re using a latex diaphragm do not use an oil based product and make sure your hands are free of anything that may cause the latex to break down. Remember, latex diaphragms are the same as latex condoms (only thicker) so treat them with the same respect.

Diaphragms do not offer protection against STD’s so you will need to either add another method of protection (like condoms) or choose something that fits your specific needs.

How do I insert the diaphragm?

Inserting your diaphragm and using it perfectly is something that will take some practice. More likely then not, using your diaphragm will be uncomfortable, awkward, and annoying when you first start. I highly suggest taking some time inserting it and removing it before you use it during intercourse. Now I know it sounds a little overwhelming but trust me, once you get the hang of it, it’s a piece of cake.

Step 1.) After you’ve washed your hands, hold the diaphragm dome side down. Squeeze a teaspoon of spermicide cream into the center of the diaphragm and spread a bit of the cream around the rim with your finger. If you have long nails be gentle as you don’t want to accidentally pierce it.

Step 2.) Squeeze the diaphragm so that it’s boat-shaped. Then, while using your free hand to separate your inner labia, insert the folded device into your vagina. To do this use whatever position you use when inserting a tampon; standing with one foot propped up, squatting, or while lying on your back in bed are all fine, just do whatever is most comfortable to you. Keep in mind that the position of the cervix and the walls of the vagina will differ depending on your position.

Step 3.) Push the diaphragm as far as it goes and use your index finger to tuck it behind your cervix. Run the index or middle finger over the diaphragm’s dome to verify that it is covering the cervix; if the device is in the correct position, the cervix should be easily felt through the rubber. Some say it feels like the end of a nose, and that’s what it’s felt like for me, so I’m going with it. It shouldn’t be too hard to tell since it is normal to detect folds in the diaphragm when it is in place.

One thing that I do want to note is that for the Diaphragm to be its most effective it must remain in place for 6 hours after intercourse, but no longer 24 hours, as there is an increased risk of toxic shock syndrome if you do.

How do I remove the diaphragm?

To remove it insert the index finger inside the vagina and place it behind the front rim of the diaphragm then pull the diaphragm downward and out of the vagina. Fortunately getting it out is a lot easier then inserting it.

How do I clean my diaphragm?

As for cleaning it, just wash the diaphragm with non-perfumed soap and warm water, rinse it well and dry it carefully; I suggest letting it air dry. Then return it to its original container and store it in a dry, cool place.

How effective is the diaphragm?

In regard to its effectiveness when used typically 20 out of 100 women will get pregnant. However when use perfectly only 6 out of 100 women will get pregnant. That in mind, as I said before it’s always better to get guidance from your health care provider since practice makes perfect!

Pro’s of using a diaphragm

It can be discretely carried in your pocket or purse.
It can be used during breastfeeding without risk of affecting your baby.
It usually can’t be felt by you or your partner.
It has no effect on a persons natural hormones unlike other methods.
It is immediately effective and reversible.
There is no interruption of sex play and can be inserted up to 6 hours ahead of time.

Cons of using a diaphragm

While I do think that the diaphragm is a great method of protection, the only downfall is that it in order for it to be effective it must be used in conjunction with spermicide. If you are curious as to why I feel this way I suggest you watch my video on spermicide and check out my post on spermicides.

That said if you plan on having sex again within a three hour span of time you need to add more spermicide. If you do choose to use this method of protection I suggest keeping a tube ready just to be safe.

While it’s still up for debate some people suggest that it cannot be used during your period
may be difficult for some women to insert (again that just takes practice)
may be pushed out of place due to heavy thrusting, and certain sexual positions
must be in place every time a woman has vaginal intercourse and used in conjunction with spermicide
may need to be refitted due to giving birth or weight change.

Common Side Effects

Fortunately most women can use the diaphragm without any issues arising. Serious problems are very rare and not that common. But some women may experience these side effects;

Frequent urinary tract infections. To avoid infection, urinate before inserting the diaphragm and after intercourse which will help to flush out any bacteria from the urethra. If you get frequent bladder infections, ask your health care provider to check to see if your diaphragm fits correctly.

Vaginal irritation; this can be a sign of an allergy to latex or spermicide. If you have a mild reaction stop using the diaphragm until you speak with your health care provider. It’s always better to be safe then sorry.

As with other methods of protection I have covered I want to stress that for some of you this may work and for some of you it may not. However, since choosing a method of protection that is right for you is a very important step in being sexually active and responsible, I do feel it necessary to cover all of the options so you can see what’s available, how to use it, and make sure your using it correctly, which will of course increase the chances of effectiveness.

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How to Choose a Sex Toy

Picking your first toy, or even buying your third, fifth, or tenth, can be an extremely frustrating, overwhelming, intimidating, annoying, and exciting experience. As someone who worked in a sex shop trust me I know, I’ve heard it a thousand times.

Fortunately I’ve crafted up this ‘quick beginners guide on choosing a sex toy that might just help you find something you’ll love.

Things to Keep In Mind

Before you go on the hunt for a sex toy, here’s a few things you might want to consider as they could help keep you from wasting money on something that’s far from what you really wanted.

Know Your Body

If you’re new to sexual exploration and/or don’t know your body very well, you might want to take some time to learn about your anatomy, as well as your personal likes and dislikes. Also, keep in mind that over 70% of ‘female’ bodied individuals require clitoral stimulation to achieve an orgasm. Sure, you could buy that cute little vibrator, but it probably won’t be that great if you don’t know what you like and what parts you’re trying to stimulate.

Know Your Needs

Speaking of likes and dislikes, its best to not let appearances or things within the media deceive you. Sure the Rabbit Pearl seen on Sex In The City is a fantastic vibe (you can watch the scene here thanks to Dangerous Lilly), but that doesn’t mean that it will work for everyone or that it’s the end all be all when it comes to vibes. Figure out what you’re looking for personally (i.e. your needs) then go for the aesthetics.

How To Choose A Sex Toy: The Basics

Battery vs Rechargeable

Products that require batteries can be a major pain… especially when they die right before you climax. They’re also costly (over time), not that great for the environment, and can kill your product if they corrode inside the battery compartment. Rechargeable eco-friendly toys are often a tad more expensive but worth it in the long run. Do yourself the favor and shell out the extra cash.

The Privacy Factory

Depending on where you live and whom you live with, you may need to choose something that’s discreet. If that’s the case items like personal massagers would be a good choice since they aren’t phallic and can be left out in the open without fear of being discovered. Although they are only good for external use, you can buy attachments that fit over the head for internal stimulation.

Gifting

If it’s a gift for someone keep in mind that sex toys are a very personal thing. Some questions you might want to ask yourself before shopping; are they comfortable with toys, open to experimentation, have used them before and whether or not they have any specific likes in terms of color, shape or design. Any little personal details you can add will more often then not make a world of difference for the receiver.

Quality vs Quantity

For most people spending over $50 on a toy seems a little unreasonable, but keep in mind that as it is in most industries, many sex toy manufacturers focus on creating high volume, lower priced products which unfortunately leads to poor quality, both in regard to the lifespan of the toy and the havoc it can create for your body. Personally, I believe it’s in your best interest to buy the highest quality sex toys you can afford, however I know that sometimes just isn’t an option. Fortunately there are lots of sex toys for around $20 that are pretty decent (the Pocket Rocket being one of them).

Shop Around & Read Reviews

Once you’ve got an idea of what you want look online for sex toy reviews to see if the product is good… or not. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve saved myself from buying something crappy thanks to an honest review.

All Sex Toys Aren’t Built The Same

Don’t blame all sex toys just because one doesn’t do it for you. If there’s something that I’ve learned through my explorations with over 200 products it’s that some work, some sadly don’t. It’s fair and totally to be expected. Fortunately I’ve been able to learn through my experiences and narrow down the specifics of what I require to get off. Sometimes I’ll go astray and choose something even though my better judgment told me not to, but for the most part the ‘wasting money’ days are over.

Product Sizing

When it comes to size, the best suggestion I can give is to be realistic; if having a finger inserted hurts, it’s best to opt for something on the smaller side, then when you’re comfortable and ready to move to something larger, you’ll be able to do so with a minimal amount of discomfort. Choosing a vaginal or anal dilator set is a good way to get more bang for your buck while also getting a variety of sizes to work with.

Good vs Bad Materials

Finally, pay attention to the materials. Unfortunately the sex toy industry isn’t regulated, allowing a plethora of crappy (read: potentially dangerous) sex toys to make their way into your bedroom drawers. When choosing a toy make sure to choose something make of 100% medical grade silicone (not a mixture), glass, ceramic, finished wood, metal, ABS plastic, and/or Thermoplastic Rubber (though I’d only opt for it as a last resort). Your best bet for choosing body safe sex toys is to shop with reputable sex toy retailers and manufacturers.

When All Else Fails

At the end of the day I know how hard choosing a sex toy can be, especially when you really don’t know what you want. When it comes to those situation, I’ve got a solution; rather than forking out a bunch of cash for one specific item, opt to buy yourself a few at lower prices so that you can experiment and see what works for you. Then, once you know what you like save up and splurge on a big ticket item that you know you’ll love.

Hopefully by following this list of suggestions you’ll not only be able to find a toy that’s right for you, but one that will last for years and offer many hours of enjoyment!

Now that you know all the basics, this ‘How To Choose A Sex Toy: The Specifics” has everything else you need to find something you’ll truly love!
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Sex Ed 102 Blooper Reel

With all the left over footage I thought I’d throw something together just for fun. Enjoy this sex ed 102 blooper reel my peeps!

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Sex Ed 102 Q&A: Should I Shave My Pubic Hair?

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Sex Ed 102 Q&A: Should I Shave My Pubic Hair?

Question:

I just started getting hot and heavy with a partner after being single for 3 years and keep finding magazine articles on pubic hair and shaving, which is really intimidating. I’ve never done it so I’m not sure what’s “right” or “wrong”, hell, I haven’t even figured out if I’d like the way I look totally bare down there! I’m totally lost! Should I shave my pubic hair?

Do you have any suggestions or advice that could help?

Answer

Before I get into it I just want to stress that shaving your pubic hair is not required or necessary for an intimate, fun, and respectful sexual experience. It’s a choice that only you can make and shouldn’t feel pressured to do, whether by society or a partner.

When it comes to maintaining pubic hair, everyone is different. Like clothing or hairstyle, it’s a matter of individual preference. Some people don’t do anything with their pubic hair, leaving it to grow naturally. Some only remove hair when they’ll be wearing a bathing suit or engaging in intimate activities, and some remove hair regularly as part of their routine. As I said, it’s a decision that’s totally up to you.

One thing I do want for you to keep in mind is that there are no real health benefits associated with removing pubic hair, it’s purely aesthetic.

If you do decide to bare it all these are some tips and tricks I think you might find helpful.

What Is Pubic Hair and Why Do We Have It?

Pubic hair, like other body hair, grows naturally as a part of puberty. It serves as a barrier that helps to reduce friction during activities, traps bacteria, and helps to wick away sweat to keep the area clean and comfortable. Some believe it also plays a role in pheromone release, enhancing natural scent as part of human attraction. While pubic hair isn’t necessary for health, some people appreciate it for its protective function and its role in maintaining a balanced environment.

Ultimately, whether you choose to keep it or remove it is entirely up to you and what feels most comfortable.

First a few Warnings…

Never use the old-fashioned straight edge razor. It is unsuitable for pubic hair removal and can be dangerous.
Never use a razor on dry bare skin, it can cause razor burn and be especially painful.
Don’t share your razors, this can spread skin infections.
Never use a hair removal cream like Nair, it can get into the vagina and cause serious pain not to mention cause possible infections.

Tips and Tricks for a Smooth, Comfortable Shave

When it comes to shaving pubic hair, a few extra steps can make all the difference in achieving a smooth, irritation-free experience.

First and foremost, invest in a high-quality razor designed for sensitive areas – ideally, one with multiple blades, a pivoting head, and a lubricating strip. Cheap, disposable razors can lead to nicks, razor burn, and redness, especially in such a delicate area, so it’s worth spending a little more to keep your skin safe.

Before you begin shaving, consider trimming longer hairs down to about a quarter of an inch with small scissors or an electric hair trimmer. This will prevent the razor from becoming clogged and ensure that it glides more easily over the skin.

To help soften the coarse pubic hair further, soak in a warm bath or stay in the shower for a few extra minutes before shaving. The heat and moisture will open up the hair follicles and make the hair more pliable, reducing the chances of pulling or tugging during shaving.

When you’re ready to shave, apply a generous amount of shaving foam or gel specifically designed for sensitive skin. Avoid using ordinary soap, as it can dry out the skin and doesn’t provide the same level of moisture retention. A good alternative to shaving gel is a quality hair conditioner, which will also help soften the hair and allow the razor to glide smoothly. Let the shaving product sit on the area for a few minutes before you start to give it time to soften the hair further.

To minimize irritation, make sure your razor blade is sharp and fresh, and only make each pass when there’s enough shaving foam on the skin to prevent friction. Rinse the razor frequently to remove hair and product build-up, which can dull the blade and increase the risk of razor burn. Shave in the direction of hair growth for a gentler experience, and avoid pressing too hard – let the razor do the work.

After you’ve finished shaving, rinse thoroughly and pat the area dry with a soft towel. To soothe the skin and reduce irritation, apply an unscented oil like Vitamin E or jojoba oil, or an alcohol-free moisturizer to hydrate and calm the skin.

Don’t Forget Exfoliation!

Exfoliating regularly is key to keeping the skin smooth and preventing pesky ingrown hairs. Aim to exfoliate the pubic area gently 1–2 times a week with a soft washcloth or a gentle exfoliating scrub designed for sensitive skin. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells that can clog pores, allowing hair to grow out more freely. If you’re new to exfoliation in this area, start with a very mild product and light pressure to avoid any irritation.

These extra steps not only enhance comfort and smoothness but can also help keep your skin looking and feeling its best over time.

Other Options for Pubic Hair Removal

If shaving isn’t your style, there are plenty of other methods to explore, each with its own benefits, challenges, and level of commitment. Here are some popular alternatives, along with a few insights into what you can expect from each one:

Waxing:

Waxing is a go-to choice for many because it removes hair from the root, which leaves the area smooth and hair-free for longer than shaving. While waxing can be painful at first, especially in sensitive areas, many people find that the discomfort lessens over time as they get used to it. Waxing results typically last anywhere from one to six weeks, depending on how quickly your hair grows. You can go to a professional for a salon-quality wax, or if you’re feeling bold, at-home waxing kits are widely available online. Just be sure to read instructions carefully and prepare your skin beforehand to minimize pain and irritation.

Electrolysis:

This is a method for those considering a more permanent solution. Electrolysis uses a fine needle to deliver an electric current into each hair follicle, which destroys it at the root. Usually performed by a professional, electrolysis can take multiple sessions – often six or more – to achieve full hair removal in an area. It can be costly and time-consuming, but it’s also highly effective. For those who want an at-home option, there are personal electrolysis devices, although these may be less powerful and slower than professional treatments.

Epilators:

An epilator (pictured right), is a handheld device that works like a supercharged tweezer, pulling multiple hairs out by the root in one go. It’s definitely a method that takes a bit of bravery, as it can be quite painful, especially in sensitive areas. However, for those who can handle it, epilation can keep you hair-free for weeks at a time. If you’re considering trying an epilator, make sure to look for a model that’s designed for sensitive areas, and keep in mind that results and pain levels vary from person to person.

* I actually tried using an epilator once, and I’ll never do it again. Granted that was years ago and technology has definitely advanced, but still. That one time was enough.

Laser Hair Removal:

This method uses concentrated light to target and destroy hair follicles. Laser hair removal is typically faster and less painful than electrolysis, though several sessions are required to achieve long-lasting results. While the effects aren’t always permanent, many people find that hair grows back finer and more slowly over time. Laser treatments are generally offered at clinics, though at home laser hair removal devices (pictured left), are also available. As with any permanent hair removal method, it’s a good idea to research carefully and consult with a professional if you’re unsure.

Stencils and Styling:

Not everyone wants to remove all their pubic hair, and that’s where styling options like trimming or stencils come in. With stencils specifically designed for pubic hair, you can shape and style the area in a way that feels both fun and comfortable. This option gives you control over how much hair to keep while adding a touch of creativity. For trimming, you can use scissors or an electric trimmer designed for sensitive areas, which provides a clean, maintained look without the potential irritation of complete removal.

No matter what method you choose, remember to research properly, start slow and see how your skin reacts, adjust your methods as needed, and care for your skin before, during, and after each session.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to remove or maintain pubic hair is a matter of personal preference, and there’s no right or wrong choice. Your comfort, health, and personal expression come first. By understanding the pros and cons of each option and following some simple do’s and don’ts, you can find an approach that feels best for you. Whether you decide to go natural, trim, or remove it all, what matters most is feeling empowered and comfortable in your own body.

So that’s pretty much it. Hopefully between the video and written content you’ll be shaving your hair like a pro… or maybe you’re totally comfortable with it as is, and if that’s the case more power to you!

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Eco Friendly Sex Toys: Everything You Need To Know To Make Healthy Choices

Since we’re living in a day and age where our health, well being, and that of the environment is of utmost importance, I thought I’d do what I could to help raise awareness about the way we unknowingly pollute our bodies. Fortunately, there are many options available when it comes to seeking out eco friendly sex toys, it’s just a matter of knowing what to look for.

How Do You Know If Your Sex Toy is Safe?

With all of the different materials on the market it can be pretty hard to differentiate between what’s safe and what isn’t. Making things even more complicated is the fact that many manufacturers are labeling products as being made entirely of a material when they only contain a small percent (this is often the case with mass produced ‘silicone’ toys).

The best advice I can offer is to take your health into your own hands, literally; when shopping in a store see if you can touch or smell the product of interest; if it feels slimy, wet, oily, or greasy, and/or smells like chemicals (close to the smell from new plastic shower curtains), it usually contains toxic ingredients like phthalates (pronounced THAL-ates) and should be avoided. Other than that, shopping at reputable stores and asking the staff for help to find a quality toy is usually a good idea.

Of course that isn’t an option for those that shop online, in that case I’d suggest looking for products that are made of non-porous materials listed as being ‘eco-friendly’, phthalate/Latex/PVC free, and a bit higher in price; low end products have low end prices because they’re made of low end materials, the opposite can be said for higher end products.

Finally, do your research and stick with products created by manufacturers that have a history of being trustworthy; Tantus, JimmyJane, Lelo, Fun Factory, We-Vibe, Crystal Delights, Nobessence and Penetralia (wood), Vixen Creations and Njoy are all highly reputable companies making products well worth the price.

Further reading:

For those of you that want to learn more about Phthalates, information can be found through these links:

About.com: Phthalates In Sex Toys – (CDC) Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Fact Sheet Phthalates – NBC News: When Sex Toys Turn Green, For Health – KaraSutra Reviews: Dangers of Phthalates in Sex Toys – Dangerous Lilly: Yes, Jelly Sex Toys Can Be Dangerous – Tantus Inc: Healthy and Green –

The Benefits of Body Safe, Eco Friendly Sex Toys

Sadly, the majority of low priced toys are also made of low quality materials, making them break faster and in need of replacement sooner. What make it worse is the fact that they are designed this way, with the manufacturers fully knowing how shoddy they are. At the end of the day their bottom line is making money, even if it’s at your expense. Bad news for your wallet, health, and the environment. Thankfully most high end products have a much higher level of craftsmanship, and pride taken when creating them, granting a wide variety of benefits:

100% medical grade silicone, wood, glass, stainless steel, and ceramic toys have a much longer lifespan; lasting years, rather than months.

Like skin, cheaper jelly products have pores which can absorb (and trap) bodily fluids, lube and bacteria during use. When this happens they potentially become a breeding ground for bacteria. Fortunately all of the above materials are non-porous and can be fully sterilized.

Many come with limited warranties offering either free replacement or a percentage off future purchases, saving you money in the long run.

Rather than needing batteries, an unexpected expense that quickly adds up and often goes unnoticed, most are now rechargeable or can be plugged into an outlet limiting the money you spend, not to mention the toxic effects disposed batteries have on landfills.

They’ll be made of body-safe materials, allowing full use without worry or negative effects on the body or the environment.

I know spending a lot of money on one sex toy seems a bit unreasonable for most people, especially first time buyers, but considering the many benefits and money you’ll save over time, it just makes sense.

Sex Toy Regulation, Affecting a Change

Because sex toys are illegal for sale in many places they’re often classified as ‘novelties’, rather than ‘medical devices’, a little tactic used to ensure they make it to market. Unfortunately this means that there are no regulations placed on them, allowing manufacturers to call a product what they want and label it as such. Considering most of the chemical compounds found in low-grade sex toys are the same ones banned from other products like pet and baby toys (due to the potential health risks), it seems like a ridiculous oversight, especially since they’re being placed in highly vulnerable and sensitive areas of the body.

Fortunately affecting a change is something that can be done a variety of ways that are all easy to employ:

Write to sex toy manufacturers and let them know you’ll only purchase eco-friendly and body safe products that are properly labeled (everything retail is supply and demand, if you demand higher quality they’ll hopefully supply it).

Keeping up to date on materials and being educated will help you avoid products that could be potentially dangerous.

Take your health, that of your friends, and the environment seriously and spread the word whenever you can. I know it may seem silly, but talking openly about sex toys helps to not only bring the misinformation and shady practices to light, it helps to keep others safe from making potentially harmful purchases.

This will probably seem like a long shot, but it’s worth the effort, you never know who might be listening – write to local congress and urge them to consider the safety and well being of the public when contemplating political stances.

Save up and only buy sex toys worthy of your cash; if the products constantly being sold are body safe and eco-friendly ones, retailers will take notice and be more likely to keep them in stock, not to mention hopefully shifting their focus from the cheap crap to higher end goods. You’ll also help keep reputable companies in business, something that’s far too often overlooked.

This probably doesn’t fit here, but I feel it’s worth mentioning since it’s Earth Day and all; rather than adding to the tonnes of garbage created every year, consider recycling your dead and unused sex toys instead of throwing them in the trash. It’s a little thing that can positively affect the bigger picture: the health and well being of our planet.

All Lubes Aren’t Created Equal

For the most part, personal lubricants are fantastic and work wonders in the bedroom for making the moment much more enjoyable, but like sex toys, contain ingredients you should look out for;

Oil Based: Oil based lubricants are great when it comes to keeping things slick however they often trap bacteria, which for some, may cause a vaginal infection or urinary tract infection (using oil for jerking off shouldn’t be too much of an issue since it’s all external, just make sure to wash up after). They also break down condoms and tend to stain surfaces (say goodbye to your favorite sheets). Finally, they aren’t suggested for use with sex toys since they can cause damage and often can’t fully be removed from porous materials (like jelly sex toys), instead remaining trapped within the body of the toy.

If you opt for something oil based during masturbation sessions try going all natural by using pure coconut or almond oil, they’ll keep things slippery without containing additives or being heavily processed.

Lubes with glycerin listed as one of the first 3 ingredients: If a female is prone to yeast infections steering clear of lubes that contain glycerin (a sugar-alcohol humectant that feeds on yeast) would be a good idea as it could just exacerbate the problem. Aside from that, if you find your lube becomes sticky or tacky during use it’s likely due to the glycerin content; friction caused during sex makes the glycerin oxidize quickly and require frequent reapplication. Because of this you’ll probably find you run through a bottle rather fast, save yourself some money and invest in something that will last.

Lubes with Parabens: Parabens, a synthetic preservative used in many intimate lubricants, are added to extend the shelf life by preventing growth of bacteria and fungi. For decades they’ve been considered safe for application (and consumption), with relatively low toxicity. However, more recent scientific studies found Parabens have been linked to cancers affecting women. In short, Parabens mimic estrogen (the female hormone), and when absorbed by the body, disrupt normal hormone production, potentially contributing to the growth of tumors and cancer. Making things even more scary, studies on breast cancer tumors revealed that tumors themselves consisted of high levels of Parabens which were believed to have been absorbed by the skin, ultimately stimulating tumor growth. Of course you likely won’t find yourself rubbing lube on your breasts that often, unless you’re giving boob jobs that is, but for those using nipple stimulating or breast enhancement creams, checking to see if they contain Parabens might be a good idea.

That isn’t to say good quality lubes are hard to find, with the increase in awareness natural and organic personal lubes containing purely natural preservatives are becoming more readily available at affordable prices. My personal suggestions: Sliquid, Vie Lube, Blossom Organics, Good Clean Love, or Intimate Organics.

*for those reading the ingredients in their lubes/body care, don’t be alarmed if you see the following listed – they’re natural preservatives and haven’t been found to be harmful: grapefruit seed extract, tocopherol (vitamin E), retinyl (Vitamin A), ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), potassium sorbate, and various essential oils. Better yet, many of the listed natural ingredients have moisturizing properties.

Eco Friendly Sex Toys: Green Is Sexy

Whether it’s tossing that old battery operated jelly vibe and replacing it with something body safe and rechargeable, opting to only use Paraben and Glycerin free lubes, or spreading the word about the potential dangers of icky sex toys, any changes you make today can have long lasting positive affects on your health, sex life, and the environment. All that’s required is giving yourself permission. Trust me, it’s a change you’ll thank yourself for later.

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