Approach to lubricant use for sexual activity

To present health care providers with an inclusive, evidence-based framework to identify patients who may benefit from lubricant use during sexual activity, and assist patients in selecting a lubricant tailored to their specific needs.

A MEDLINE, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Google search was performed for white and grey literature published from 2003 to 2024. Interdisciplinary experts in sexual health also conducted an iterative review.

Lubricant use during sexual activity has numerous benefits, minimal harms, and can play a role in managing many common sexual health concerns encountered in primary care. However, counselling on lubricant use can be challenging due to a lack of accessible, evidence-based clinical tools. Consequently, clinicians are often hesitant to discuss lubricant use and can only offer anecdotal advice. Lubricant use is especially beneficial for patients using condoms or experiencing dryness, pain (eg, dyspareunia), or dysfunction during sex. There are 3 main types of lubricants available: oil-, silicone-, and water-based products. For patients who use condoms or who experience recurrent vaginal infections or irritation, silicone- or water-based lubricants are recommended, which are free of harmful ingredients and are within recommended osmolality and pH ranges.

Lubricant use during sexual activity can enhance sexual well-being across diverse patient populations. This review summarizes evidence and provides practical tools to help clinicians integrate counselling on lubricant use into routine sexual health discussions.