.jpg)
.webp)
Sex is messy enough. There’s no need to add worry on top of that with lube that’s loaded up with harsh chemicals — especially when you're trying to conceive. Fortunately, though, there are a lot of awesome new non-toxic lube options on the market that help you turn up the heat without getting burned by irritants or hormone disruptors.
The fertility lubricant market is growing 8% annually and expected to reach $600,000,000 by 2032, showing just how many couples are looking for support on their TTC journey. But with so many choices, it can feel overwhelming to know which one is right for you — and that’s where we can help.
The science behind fertility lubricants
Most regular lubes aren’t designed with sperm in mind. In fact, many can actually dehydrate sperm or slow them down, making it harder for them to reach the egg. Fertility-friendly lubricants, on the other hand, are specially made to mimic your body’s natural fluids, helping sperm stay healthy and mobile on their journey. Research even shows that while DIY options like olive oil can harm sperm, fertility lubes are tested to be safe — and in some cases, even supportive — for conception.
How the FDA approves fertility lubricants
Not all lubes are created equal — especially when you’re TTC. The FDA has a special category for fertility lubricants, which means these products have been tested to make sure they don’t harm sperm health. To get FDA clearance, a lube has to prove it won’t damage sperm motility, vitality, or DNA, and that it’s isotonic (balanced to match the body’s natural fluids so sperm can survive and move normally).
If you see FDA clearance on the label, you can trust the product has been specifically tested for sperm safety — something you won’t always find with regular or even so-called “natural” lubricants.
What to avoid in conventional lube for fertility
When it comes to lube, what you don’t put in your body matters just as much as what you do. Many conventional formulas contain ingredients that can mess with your hormones, irritate sensitive tissue, or throw off your vaginal balance. Here are nine common culprits to keep an eye out for on ingredient labels.
- Parabens: Parabens are preservatives that are often used in personal care products, including lubricants. They’re added to prevent the growth of bacteria to extend the shelf life but can cause potential hormone disruption, skin irritation, and accumulation in the body. In fact, a 2023 study found that paraben exposure in female partners was associated with reduced couple fertility.
- Glycerin: Glycerin is a sugar alcohol that’s often used in lubricants as a “humectant,” to retain moisture. While it’s generally safe for most, it can potentially cause yeast infections in people who are prone to them, and cause irritation, and vaginal dryness post-intercourse. Not just that, but a 2024 systematic review also linked glycerin-containing lubricants (like K-Y Jelly and Astroglide) to detrimental effects on sperm motility.
- Propylene glycol: Propylene glycol is a synthetic compound used in various personal care products as a humectant to increase moisture retention. It can be a skin irritant, cause allergic reactions, especially in those with sensitive skin, and accumulate in the body over time.
- Synthetic fragrances: Most conventional lubricants contain artificial fragrances or perfumes to enhance the scent. Fragrances can cause irritation, allergic reactions, and hormone disruption. Fragrances are very poorly regulated, meaning companies don’t have to disclose what’s in their fragrance, making it nearly impossible to know what you’re being exposed to.
- Nonoxynol-9: Nonoxynol-9 is a spermicide that was previously used in several lubricants as a contraceptive. However, it’s been found to cause irritation, disrupt the natural balance of vaginal flora, and potentially cause damage to the internal tissues of the vagina so it’s no longer recommended for regular use. Many companies have taken it out of their formulations, but it’s best to always double-check your labels!
- Petroleum-based ingredients: Petroleum-based ingredients, such as mineral oil or petroleum jelly, are included in many lubricants to reduce friction and provide moisture. However, they can potentially disrupt your natural vaginal pH balance, lead to a drying effect over time, trap bacteria, cause irritation, and increase the risk of condom breakage.
- Silicone-based lubricants: Silicone is used as the main ingredient over water or petroleum in some lubricants because it has a silky texture, is waterproof, and is long-lasting. It’s generally safe and effective, but for individuals who are sensitive or allergic to silicone, it should be avoided.
- Chlorhexidine gluconate: Chlorhexidine gluconate is used in some lubricants as a disinfectant. It can kill off the good bacteria in your vagina, thereby triggering inflammation and irritation. Many brands have opted to remove it from their formulations for this reason, but you should still always read your ingredient labels.
- Benzocaine: Benzocaine is a local anesthetic commonly used to numb or reduce pain and discomfort. It’s sometimes used in lubricants for pain relief some may experience during sex, or make anal play less scary. However, because it operates as a numbing agent, you can mask sensations during sex that are silently causing harm and cause irritation.
What to look for in a fertility-friendly lubricant
Choosing the right lube while trying to conceive isn’t just about comfort — it’s about creating the best possible environment for sperm to thrive. Certain formulations are designed to be gentle, supportive of vaginal health, and sperm-friendly. Here’s what to keep in mind when shopping for a fertility-safe option.
- Water-based formulation: Look for “water-based” as the primary ingredient. Water-based lubricants are generally safe, hypoallergenic, and compatible with most body types. They’re also easy to clean up and won't stain fabrics.
- Organic or real, easy-to-read ingredients: Avoid products that contain vague, synthetic fragrances, dyes, or harsh chemicals and look for plant-based extracts, botanical oils like coconut or almond oil, aloe vera, natural emollients like shea butter and cocoa butter, or other gentle and nourishing substances instead. These are generally considered safer and less likely to cause irritation or adverse reactions.
- Hypoallergenic: Hypoallergenic means the product has undergone rigorous testing to ensure it’s gentle and suitable for sensitive skin. And ideally, a “dermatologist tested and, or recommended” stamp of approval goes the extra mile.
- Non-irritating and fragrance-free: Especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies, choose lubricants labeled as allergy-friendly and fragrance-free to minimize the risk of irritation or adverse reactions. However, even if you don’t this, is the safest route to take so you don’t create potential hormonal or vaginal pH disruptions
- (Bonus) pH-balanced: For everyday vaginal health, the natural pH should fall between 3.8–5. However, fertility-friendly lubricants are formulated differently — the optimal pH for sperm survival is 7.2–8, which helps sperm function more effectively as they travel toward the egg. Look for a product specifically labeled as both vaginally safe and sperm-friendly.
Our best fertility lubricants of 2025
- Best overall: Pre-Seed Fertility Lubricant (~$20) — Widely endorsed in research, minimal impact on sperm, FDA-approved.
- Best paraben-free: BabyDance by Fairhaven Health ($17.95) — FDA-approved, paraben- and glycerin-free, isotonic.
- Best FDA-approved: “The Lube” by Natalist ($25) — FDA-cleared, paraben-free, and designed to mimic fertile cervical mucus so sperm can swim freely.
- Best value: Good Clean Love Almost Naked ($12.77) — Affordable, plant-based option, though not FDA-cleared.
- Best for sensitive skin: Maude Organic Personal Lubricant ($26) — Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.
- Best vegan: Coconu Oil-Based Organic Personal Lubricant ($29.99) — A coconut-infused, plant-based lube is vegan, lightweight, and water-based — giving you smooth, skin-friendly hydration without the greasy feel.
- Best for easy application: Ah! Yes Organic Water-Based Lubricant ($19.99) — With pre-filled applicators for quick, discreet, and mess-free application exactly where you need it.
- Best for quick clean-up: Hello Cake Aloe-Based Organic Lube ($12) — An aloe-based lube that’s hydrating, gentle, and pH-balanced — and with its no-sticky formula, cleanup takes just a quick rinse with soap and water.
- Best scent: Dame Products Aloe Personal Lube ($19) — A vegan, organic lube uses natural extracts like peppermint, ginger, and cinnamon for a warm, earthy scent — no artificial perfumes required.
- Best for vaginal microbiome: Love Wellness Sex Stuff Personal Lubricant ($19.99) — Formulated with organic aloe and quinoa, this natural, pH-balanced lube is designed to keep your vaginal microbiome healthy and happy.
- Best budget-friendly FDA-cleared: Premom Fertility Lubricant ($16.99) — Isotonic, pH-balanced, and free from parabens, glycerin, and dyes — creating a gentle, sperm-safe environment to support conception.
- Best designed for couples: Frida Fertility Lubricant ($19.99) — A sperm-safe, hydrating formula is designed to boost comfort and pleasure for both partners — making TTC sex feel good while still supporting conception.
- Best newcomer: Ovarium #TTC ($19.99) — A clean, water-based lube that’s pH-balanced, sperm-safe, and paraben-free — giving you a silky-smooth feel while supporting conception.
Are fertility lubricants worth it?
If you’re trying to conceive, using a fertility-friendly lubricant can be a simple way to support your chances without adding extra stress to an already emotional process. While they aren’t a magic solution — they won’t replace timing, egg and sperm quality, or overall reproductive health — they can help create a sperm-safe environment and reduce the discomfort that sometimes comes with TTC sex.
Think of it as one more tool in your toolbox: not essential for everyone, but reassuring for many. At the end of the day, anything that makes sex feel better, less pressured, and more aligned with your body’s natural balance is worth considering. And if a fertility lubricant helps you feel both comfortable and proactive on your journey, then yes — it just might be worth it.
Caroline McMorrow is a survivor of a rare autoimmune disease with no known cause or cure, who has channeled her personal health journey into her work as a content strategist. A passionate advocate for democratizing health information and making it accessible to those navigating their own health journeys, she champions the importance of digestible medical information, alternative treatment options, and self-advocacy.