Sex Ed 101: Lubricants

It's Back to School Time!  Even if you don't have children heading off to school,  there's something about September 1st that leaves you longing for some extra knowledge about something, anything!

There's nothing like the first day of school when you start the year eager to learn, with your clean notebook and freshly sharpened pencil.  By December, you're over it.  Right now though, inspired by all the back to school specials in stores, we wanted to give you a quick overview on sex education, starting with Lube 101.

Fantasy Gifts believes that lubricant is an essential ingredient for any sexual encounter.  Whether you are alone, or with a partner, a satisfying, healthy sexual experience must include lubricant.  But which one and why?

The first factor to consider is why are you using a lubricant?  Believe it or not, different lubricants can enhance or diminish a sexual experience.  Are you using it alone or with a partner?  If you are using it alone, are you using it with a toy or without a toy?  Why does it matter?  Because if you are using a silicone toy or a latex condom, you must not use a silicone based lubricant, like Pjur Eros Original Bodyglide, because it will break down the silicone material.  This is not only bad for your silicone based sex toy but can be downright dangerous when you're talking about a latex condom.  Try a water-based lubricant like System Jo H2O Personal Lubricant.  This high-quality, water based lubricant reactivates when you add more moisture to it so it will never become dry and tacky.

The second factor to consider is your own body.  What sensitivities does your own body have?  If you are prone to yeast infections, we do not recommend using a flavored lubricant.   While flavored lubricants cannot cause a yeast infection, the sorbitol which provides the flavoring can feed an already existing yeast infection.  If you are looking for a different sensation without the sorbitol, try a warming or cooling water based lubricant like Wet Synergy.

If you prefer a product that is made with only natural or organic ingredients, try System JO Organic Lubricant.  This lubricant is 100% natural certified USDA organic.  It is made with aloe vera and acai making it silky smooth and long lasting.  It is condom and silicone toy compatible.  Best of all, it is glycerin and paraben free.

The third factor to consider is what experience are you hoping to enhance?  If you anticipate oral sex (and do not have a yeast infection as discussed above) then we love the flavors of System JO H2O Flavored Lubricants.  Available in vanilla, mint, tangerine, apple, strawberry, cherry, raspberry, and pomegranate, there's a flavor for every taste!  If you want to warm it up or cool it down, we like the Wet Synergy mentioned above.  If you are going for anal play, you must have an anal based lubricant.  The viscosity is thicker, making it perfect to protect the anus which does not produce its own moisture.  Our favorite is System JO Anal H2O Personal Lubricant.

Whatever your desired outcome, a lubricant will enhance it!

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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

While October is the time for all things spooky and creepy here's one thing really scary - many women miss the early signs of breast cancer because they either don't do self-exams or do not have a mammogram. According to the National Cancer Institute, if breast cancer is caught early and localized, the 5 year survival rate is 98%.  Think about that.  In comparison, the five year survival rate for lung cancer is only 16%.

Although breast cancer awareness is one of the best funded campaigns, too many women are still dying of this treatable disease.  To aid in breast cancer awareness, we suggest you purchase the
 Evolved Faith Waterproof Vibrator.  You can raise awareness and support for breast cancer while stimulating yourself!  The proceeds from every purchase of this vibrator will go to the Save the Ta Tas Foundation.

If you're a breast cancer survivor, you may be suffering from the effects of your treatment.  These effects could be interfering with your sexual health.  If your libido is low, try reading an erotic novel.  If you've already tapped out the Fifty Shades of Grey series, we suggest trying the Sylvia Day's series Bared to You.  To be honest, we think it's written better and the lead female character is less whiny and virginal!

If a book isn't your thing, try watching a movie together.  Just in time for Halloween we offer Zero Tolerance Official Halloween Parody.  All of the gore of the original Halloween movie, with just enough humor and raunchy sex to entertain!

Another side effect of breast cancer treatment is vaginal dryness.  Although we always recommend all women use a lubricant during sexual intercourse, it is particularly important if your body is not capable of producing normal levels of vaginal secretions.  Although Pjur Eros Original Bodyglide is our number one selling silicone based lubricant - and a fabulous product- for breast cancer survivors we often recommend Pjur Medical Natural Glide.  It is from the same manufacturer, but it is water based and mimics the natural ingredients your body normally produces.

More than 70% of breast cancer survivors report having significant problems in the bedroom more than 2 years after their diagnosis according to the Journal of Sexual Medicine.  The important thing to remember if you are one of them is you are not alone and you do not have to suffer.  A female friendly store like Fantasy Gifts offers knowledgeable, trained women staff who can help you with all of your sexual wellness needs. You can also go online or visit your neighborhood pharmacist.  The important thing is to discuss your sexual issues honestly with your doctor and your partner.  Empower yourself and recognize you deserve a healthy and happy sexual life.

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