Dear tiger04,

Vaginal lubrication happens when women become sexually aroused. Blood flows to the genitals — the clitoris swells and the vagina lubricates itself, which is known as "getting wet."

But sometimes there's not enough lubrication to make sex comfortable. For various reasons, some women may not lubricate enough even when they are sexually aroused. And sometimes women may have intercourse before they've had a chance to become fully aroused and lubricated. That's why "foreplay" — kissing and sexual touching before intercourse that causes the body to feel more aroused — is important.

A woman can use a water-based lubricant — like K-Y jelly or Astroglide — to increase lubrication during sex. Water-based lubricants can be used with condoms. Never use an oil-based lubricant with a condom, because oil damages latex, which makes the condom more likely to break. Many condoms are already lubricated. Using more lube with condoms can make penetration more comfortable, and also makes condoms safer!

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.