Let’s talk about a topic that no one wants to talk about, but almost everyone has googled at 1am whilst stuck to the loo: UTIs. You know the drill, the burning, the stinging, the running-to-the-bathroom-every-five-minutes kind of phantom wee. Yep, that.
Now, if you’ve ever found yourself asking “Can lube actually cause a UTI!?” you’re not alone. Let’s unpack what’s really going on down there, and how your choice of personal lubricants could be making things a little (or a lot) worse.
What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when unwanted bacteria (usually E.coli) sneak their way into your urinary tract. For those at home, that’s your urethra, bladder and in some cases, kidneys. Once the bacteria’s in, they really do make themselves a little too at home.
Common symptoms:
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Burning when you pee
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The constant urge to go (even when there’s barely a drip)
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Cloudy urine
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Lower abdominal pain
It’s as fun as it sounds.
UTI’s are super common, especially with vulva-owners. Not to go full biology in period 5 on you, but thanks to how close the urethra is to the vagina and anus, bacteria has a shorter, easier trip to find themselves housed within your body. Cute for them, not for us.
So can using lube give you a UTI?
Short answer: it can increase the risk.
Not all lubricants are created equal. While lube’s job is to reduce friction and make sexual activity (partnered or solo) smoother, the wrong formula can mess with your vagina’s natural balance and invite unwanted bacteria to the party (invite definitely not lost in the mail).
Some water-based lubricants use ingredients like Glycerin or propylene glycol (both sugar alcohols). When your pH levels are off, these common ingredients are the likely culprits. Others might includes fragrance, flavouring, or harsh preservatives that irritate your vaginal tissue and make it easier for bacteria to move into your urinary tract.
Other side effects of using the wrong lube
A poor-quality lube or a never-ending list of irritating ingredients doesn't just up your UTI risk, it can affect your whole vaginal microbiome. Think of it like your gut health, but for your genital area.
When that balance is off, it can lead to:
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Irritation and dryness (no, thank you).
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Allergic reactions or redness after sex
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Changes in pH levels that make your more prone to yeast and bacterial infections
Can we catch a break???
Can lube cause BV (Bacterial Vaginosis)?
Yes, it can increase the risk. Especially if the lube is loaded with synthetic ingredients or sugar-based compounds.
BV happens when your vaginal bacteria get out of balance. Instead of the good bacteria running the show, the not-so-good ones take over. Cue odour, discharge and irritation in genital areas.
Lubes that contain glycerin, parabens or fragrances can all throw things out of whack and make BV more likely to show up uninvited, rude.
Can lube cause yeast infections?
Unfortunately, yes. Remember the sugar alcohols we mentioned earlier? Your vagina remembers too.
Ingredients glycerin feed Candida (not to be confused with Canada). The yeast responsible for most vaginal infections. The result? Itching, burning and discharge that could rival the cottage cheese section at Woolies.
If you’re someone who gets yeast infections regularly, switching to cleaner lubricants could make the world of difference.
Can lube cause bladder infections?
You guessed it, yes it can. While a UTI is a bladder infection (in most cases), some lubes can make symptoms worse or increase risk of repeated flare-ups.If your lubricant leaves any residue or disrupts your vaginal microbiome, bacteria can hang around and move upwards into your bladder. Especially after sexual activity, when everything’s a bit more open and sensitive.
Bottom line: if you’re getting recurring infections and can’t figure out why, your old lube on the night stand is *quaking* right now.
Lubricants that are safe to use
The best vaginal lubricants are the ones that keep things smooth, without messing with your body’s natural balance. Look for clean, simple formulas that are free from synthetic fragrances and glycerin to reduce the risk of UTIs.
Types of Lubes:
Water based lube - Playmate
A sensitive, water-based formula made with soothing and moisturising aloe vera. Hydrates, reduces friction, and eases intimate moments.
Oil-based Lube - Extra virgin
This luscious oil-based lube is crafted with unrefined coconut oil, jojoba oil, castor oil, and vitamin E for long-lasting glide and skin-loving nourishment.
Silicon-vased lubricants
Ideal for those who need longer-lasting glide or struggle with dryness. They’re especially great for bath or shower play. Just steer clear if you’re using a silicone sex toys as these lubes can break down the material.
Lubes and ingredients to avoid
Time to play detective. When you’re reading that ingredient list, watch out for:
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Glycerin: increases the risk of yeast and bladder infections
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Parabens: can mimic hormones and disrupt your hormonal balance
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Fragrance or flavouring: fun in theory, not in practice (irritation central)
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Propylene Glycol: dries out your vaginal tissue over time
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Nonocynol-9: Can cause micro-tears and irritation, ouch.
Lube should make things feel better. Not leave you reaching for the cranberry juice and Ural sachets.
So next time you’re shopping for your bedside drawer, skip the sugar-laden scented stuff and stick with clean, body-safe vaginal lubricants that support your vaginal microbiome instead of upsetting it.
Still having trouble deciding? Check out our Quiz
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