What does the term “water-based lubricant” mean?
It means a lubricant that does not contain any oil and can be washed off with water. Examples of water-based lubricants are K-Y Jelly and Astroglide. Water-based lubricants do not damage latex barriers, whereas lubricants that contain oil (such as Vaseline, massage oil, or hand lotion) will damage latex. • Should I use a lubricant or a condom that has nonoxynol-9? There is no proof that nonoxynol-9 protects against HIV and many people are allergic to it–they experience irritation or soreness. Irritated tissues are even more vulnerable to infection. • If I am allergic to latex, what do I do about safer sex? Use barriers made of something other than latex, like polyurethane. About 10% of the population have latex allergies, and a latex allergy can appear where it didn’t exist before because of repeated exposure to latex. A latex allergy feels like soreness or irritation in the affected area. • Which is the best type of condom to protect against HIV? Latex or polyurethane (NEVER “natural
