No, you should not use saliva as a lubricant during sexual activity. While saliva might seem readily available, it's not a safe or effective option.
Why Saliva is Not a Good Lubricant
Several reasons make saliva unsuitable as a lubricant:
- Risk of Infection: Saliva can transmit sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like herpes and syphilis. Using saliva as a lubricant increases the risk of spreading these infections.
- Vaginal Irritation: Saliva's composition can irritate the vagina, potentially leading to infections or discomfort.
- Ineffective Lubrication: Saliva dries quickly and doesn't provide consistent lubrication, unlike commercially available lubricants. It's mostly water and doesn't offer the necessary properties for comfortable sexual activity.
- Acidity: Saliva's slightly acidic nature can also cause irritation.
Studies have shown a significant percentage of individuals using saliva as a lubricant, particularly in anal sex among men who have sex with men (MSM). However, this practice carries substantial health risks. For example, research has indicated that 63% of receptive partners and 68% of insertive partners in penile-anal intercourse reported using saliva as lubricant. However, this doesn't negate the inherent dangers.
Several sources explicitly state that saliva is not a safe or recommended lubricant, highlighting the potential for STI transmission and irritation. While some individuals might use it for masturbation, the same risks apply, particularly the irritation caused by its acidic and drying nature.
Always opt for commercially available water-based lubricants designed for sexual activity to ensure safety and comfort.
