What lube do pelvic floor therapists use?

Great question 🌸 — pelvic floor therapists often use lubricants during internal pelvic floor exams and therapy sessions to reduce discomfort while keeping tissues safe.

🔹 What Lube Do Pelvic Floor Therapists Use?

Pelvic floor physical therapists usually choose medical-grade, water-based lubricants because they are:

  • Safe for sensitive tissues

  • Non-irritating (fragrance-free, glycerin-free preferred)

  • Condom and glove safe

  • Easily washable (important during therapy)

Commonly Used Types:

  1. Surgilube (sterile, water-soluble, medical-grade)

  2. Aquagel (clear, pH-balanced, widely used in clinics)

  3. HR Lubricating Jelly (water-based, sterile)

  4. Slippery Stuff Gel (glycerin-free, pH balanced, often recommended by pelvic PTs)

🔹 Why Not Oil or Silicone?

  • Oil-based lubes (like coconut oil): not sterile, can increase infection risk, and damage gloves.

  • Silicone-based lubes: too long-lasting, harder to clean off, and may interfere with gloves or equipment.

🔹 Therapist Considerations

Pelvic floor therapists usually look for:

  • Sterility (to reduce infection risk)

  • Hypoallergenic formulas (no parabens, glycerin, fragrances)

  • pH-balanced to support vaginal health

✨ Bottom line:
Pelvic floor therapists most commonly use sterile, water-based lubricants like Surgilube, Aquagel, or Slippery Stuff, because they’re safe, gentle, and easy to clean — making them ideal for medical and therapeutic use.

Back to blog