Vaginal Dryness When 'Baby Making'
Trying to conceive (TTC) is a big issue. At least 90 million couples worldwide are trying to become pregnant. With only a 20% average chance of becoming pregnant each cycle, it's no surprise that couples can become stressed.
Intercourse on demand around ovulation can lead to anxiety and increased vaginal dryness. In fact, 75% of TTC couples report an increased frequency of vaginal dryness.
In relieving vaginal dryness, couples do not want to create another problem. However, most personal lubricants. and even saliva can harm sperm. Research conducted on personal lubricants over the past three decades has clearly demonstrated their detrimental effects on sperm.
You will recognize these products, and you may recognize claims that their product "will not kill sperm" or "does not alter sperm motility".
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- Replens is a product of Lil' Drug Store Products, Inc.
- Astroglide is a product of BioFilm, Inc.
- K-Y is a product of McNeil-PPC, Inc.
- Preseed is a product of INGfertility, LLC
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How Do Other Products Damage Sperm?
The reason for sperm damage from most products can be seen when data on product pH and osmolarity are compared as in the table below.
The optimum pH value for sperm migration and survival in the cervical mucus is between 7.1 and 8.5 (according to the World Health Organization Manual 4th edition, 2000). Sperm are very sensitive to low (acidic) pH and, to a lesser extent, elevated (alkaline) pH. Below pH levels of 6.9, sperm die at a rate that increases with lowering pH.
Sperm are also sensitive to both high and low osmolarities (ion concentration in solution) because these can cause them to either shrink or swell beyond their "critical volume limits". A physiologic osmolarity between 260-360 mOsm/kg (that of semen) is best for sperm function.
Usually ingredients like glycerin or propylene glycol (in most lubricants), are what result in these high osmolarities. We have tested many products besides the ones shown here. If any glycols or mineral oils are in the lubricant you are using, you can pretty much assume the formula will be damaging to sperm.
Water also kills sperm on contact because it has no salt solution. Some people will tell you to use a little warm water--- don't'!
Likewise, saliva has digestive enzymes in it that stop sperm from swimming on contact-not so good if you want them to reach the egg! |