Babe With The Power

One fun part about maturing is realizing that most of the so-called shameful awakenings we were conditioned to be embarrassed by were totally normal. Many of us humped pillows and felt funny flutters watching Dirty Dancing. Everyone experimented with whatever (hopefully safe) household items they had at their disposal. And let's be honest—nothing was off-limits.

While some of us were guided into the land of masturbation via friend or magazine article (no thanks to sex ed!), others found their solo groove purely by accident. As was the case with Lovability Co-Founder Maureen Pollack.

Self-stimulation was not a taboo topic by any means during Pollack's childhood. According to her, she "figured out masturbation" when she was just three years old. Knowing how to take care of herself (especially during the years of raging teenage hormones) gave her a safe route to explore her body's pleasure-producing capabilities without having to engage in sex with someone before she was ready.

"Society didn't get a grip on me to tell me I'm a dirty girl," she said. "My parents were always very open and wonderful. I give them a lot of credit for never shaming anything, but I definitely felt the social pressure from society."

For the most part, the usual methods worked just fine at satisfying those natural urges. But Pollack accidentally stumbled upon an entirely new layer of gratification when she was 15 years old.

The Pleasure Of Water Masturbation

While taking a bath one evening, she used the faucet to help her sit up. It popped off, and the water from the pipe behind it started shooting straight out. "It hit me in the face," she says, recalling the exact moment her world changed. "I jumped back, and it hit me somewhere else magical. And let's just say that that was my eureka moment. I went to heaven."

For obvious reasons, Pollack opted not to tell her parents about the pipe burst. Instead, she took four baths a day, often staying in until the water went cold. Even though she was no stranger to climaxing, she said masturbating with water gave her some of the most intense orgasms of her life.

"It was like nothing I had ever experienced before. So I enjoyed that faucet coming straight out for about a week. And then my father fixed it."

Much to her dismay, Pollack's father quickly repaired the broken faucet, unknowingly cutting her off from the out-of-this-world pleasure portal she had discovered. But Pollack wasn't about to give up that easily. She tried angling with her showerhead and scooting under the replaced faucet, but the water dispersion was either too sharp or too wide to do anything but tease her.

"I was like a dog without a bone dying to get that experience back," she said. "I was in love. I was going to marry my bathtub." So one day, while her dad was out, she grabbed a sledgehammer from the garage and sent that shiny new faucet to pipe heaven.

"I enjoyed it for another three or four days, and my dad fixed it again," Pollack said. "I was mortified. He yelled, 'How the hell did this happen?' And I was like, 'I don't know. It wasn't me.'"

Knowing she probably couldn't get away unscathed if she brought out the sledgehammer again, 15-year-old Pollack eventually requested a handheld showerhead for "her curly hair." Her parents obliged, it did the job but it had nothing on laying back and letting the water work it’s magic hands-free so she put her pipe dreams to bed. But no matter how much her sexual knowledge evolved, she never did forget about that experience.

When she became 18 she was able to purchase sex toys she ran out and started her collection. "I was like Ariel from 'The Little Mermaid,'" she joked. "I had gizmos and gadgets a plenty. I probably have almost everything under the sun that's body safe, and never was I ever able to experience that kind of orgasm again."

It wasn't until years later when she was advising OB-GYN practices about stimulation, that her faucet fantasies were brought back to life. Pollack always recommended water as a gentle masturbation technique (especially for women who recently experienced childbirth or trauma) and encouraged doctors to tell their patients about the power of scooting under the faucet AKA the bathtub technique. 

But when one of her OB-GYNs brought up patients with immobility issues who might not be able to position themselves that way, she remembered her first love: the busted pipe.

"I'm like, I had this experience at 15—just create a water diverter," she said. "They called me three days later and told me I needed to invent it, and how it will be most body-safe method for both pleasure and feminine hygiene for women!"

After some slight hesitation and convincing from her peers, Pollack did just that. And in 2014, The WaterSlyde was born. Her patented aquatic stimulator attaches to your faucet and diverts a seriously hypnotic flow of water right where you want it. There are no batteries or charging cords to worry about. You just turn the water to your desired temperature and let the water flow and ride the waves of pleasure.

"When I think back to my original experience, it's the fact that I was able to lay there comfortably without having to do any work. Removing my hands from the situation, I think I was able to get lost in my imagination and fantasize. It was just this indulgence, and there's nothing like it on the market."

The WaterSlyde is undeniably the most body-safe and eco-friendly sex toy out there—and we can't think of a better way to honor International Women's Day than by treating yourself to one. You don't have to take a sledgehammer to your faucet or do bathtub yoga to experience the mind-blowing pleasure that bath time can offer. Just add The WaterSlyde to your self-care routine and experience just how good you can really feel. We all deserve more pleasure in our lives!

About The Author

Emily Blackwood is a freelance journalist committed to answering the plaguing question of what makes us truly happy. Turns out, it's a lot. Her work has been published in SELF, HuffPost, and YourTango. You can learn more here.

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Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is intended for educational and informative purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical or professional advice. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.

I’ve never met anyone with a positive memory of sex ed. Most of us share in the equally horrifying experience of listening to your grumpy gym coach talk about tampons and chlamydia while the whole class snickered and sneered. Let’s just say absolutely no vital information was retained, hence why the majority of our sexual know-how was derived from less embarrassing formats such as magazines and older siblings.

That would be all fine and well—except that of the over 20 million sexually transmitted infections that happen every year, 15- to 24-year-olds account for almost half of them. 

Lovability Co-founder and Resident Pleasure Queen Maureen Pollack is mega passionate about what is (and isn’t) taught in schools. According to her, a major piece is missing from the curriculum that could very well reduce those numbers and empower young people to have healthier outlets for sexual expression. And that missing piece is masturbation. 

“When I was 15, I was the girl teaching all of her friends how to self-stimulate,” Pollack says, chuckling. “I didn’t have any stigma on virginity or any notion of trying to save myself, but I think I naturally abstained from sex because I could create my own pleasure. I was able to wait until I found somebody I wanted to do it with, whereas my friends would come to me upset that they hooked up with a guy because they couldn’t control themselves. They didn’t do it because they wanted to be with them, but because they had no other outlet.”

Yet while masturbation is a normal, healthy part of human sexual behavior, for many patriarchal (and downright archaic) reasons, self-pleasuring is viewed as too taboo to teach. Pollack believes this needs to change—and here’s why. 

Reason #1: There's No Such Thing As Safe Sex

In most health classes, students are given two options for going to pound town: safe sex or total abstinence. Pollack argues what anyone who went through puberty will tell you. Neither of these options are great—or very realistic. 

“There’s no such thing as safe sex,” she says. “There’s only safer sex.” 

To be clear, the “safe” in “safe sex” refers to the prevention of STIs and unwanted pregnancies. Most of the practices that are defined as safe sex (like wearing a condom, oral sex, etc.) can only reduce your risk of catching an STI or becoming pregnant. Only abstinence can 100% guarantee your safety in that regard. 

“If anybody wants to abstain from sex, great,” Pollack says. “That’s your choice, and I’m all for people living a life they want to live. But celibacy can be extremely difficult and most people are challenged to keep it 100%.” 

Your vibrator, on the other hand, can’t give you an STI or knock you up. That’s why self-pleasuring is the only form of sexual engagement that can actually be considered safe sex. 

Reason #2: The Benefits of Masturbation Far Outweigh The Risks

Outside of the whole eternal-damnation thing (BTW, nowhere in the Bible does it explicitly say that masturbation is a sin; some interpret “spilling the seed” as semen, but women can’t spill a seed, right?), there are only a few risks that come with self-stimulation:

* Bacterial vaginosis: caused by sex toys that are not body-safe or weren’t properly cleaned before use.

* Porn addiction: caused by watching too much pornography and it’s disrupting your life/relationships. 

* Poor mental health: caused by outdated societal norms that shame people for self-pleasuring. 

But these dangers are both easily preventable (i.e., choose quality toys and clean your vibrators and limit your porn usage) and far outweighed by the scientifically proven benefits:

* Dulls pain: one study found that vaginal stimulation can increase your pain tolerance threshold by a whopping 40%. 

* Relieves stress: orgasming releases oxytocin, which has been found to decrease the levels of cortisol (our stress hormone). 

* Increase happiness: regular masturbation can actually increase your brain’s concentration of dopamine and oxytocin—two neurotransmitters that are consistently linked to mood regulation and overall happiness. 

* Improves sleep: a 2019 study reported that 50% of people who masturbated before bed and had an orgasm enjoyed better sleep that same night.

* Reduces menstrual cramps: a 2021 study found that over 40% of women reported masturbating to be more effective at relieving cramps than medication.

And that’s just what the science says. Having a regular self-pleasure practice also allows you to explore your own desires and arousal without pressure, learn the different ways your body responds to touch, and develop a healthier, more empowered relationship with your sexuality.

Plus, it’s free, easy to access, and anyone can do it—whether you’re single or part of a couple.

Reason #3: Self-Pleasure Is Self-Care

Call me old-fashioned, but we've gotten a little too 'lax about what we call self-care. So much of what we've tossed into that basket is just consumerism disguised as “treating yourself.” We're encouraged to take the latest gut health supplement and buy expensive under eye creams—all of which are lovely but ultimately superficial.

True self-care is taking the time to do something that is solely for your own pleasure. And what can be more pleasurable than an orgasm? 

It's Never Too Late To Learn

If you have yet to hop on the masturbation train, or you’re ready to make your self-pleasure practice a priority, Pollack has a few simple tips you can follow. 

1. Make sure whatever you’re doing is clean. Wash your hands, wash your toys, and only use products that are labeled as body-safe. 

2. Follow wherever your mind goes. Don’t overthink it, and just start playing with the first idea that pops into your mind.

3. Upgrade your favorite nightly routine. Love bathtime? You’ll love it even more when you add a WaterSlyde to the mix. This aquatic simulator offers an unbelievable amount of pleasure while providing the cleanest, safest route to self-sex yet. 

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you decide to peruse your local sex store, don’t be afraid to ask one of the reps for assistance. Trust me; they’ve heard it all. 

“Exploring is the fun part,” Pollack said. “Explorers don’t just go to their destination. They enjoy the journey.” 

So, embrace the journey. There's no wrong way to self-pleasure, and no one is keeping score. Take your time and enjoy it. After all, sexual pleasure isn’t only a human right, it's self-care. And we all could use a little bit more of that.

About The Author

Emily Blackwood is a freelance journalist committed to answering the plaguing question of what makes us truly happy. Turns out, it's a lot. Her work has been published in SELF, HuffPost, and YourTango. You can learn more here.

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Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is intended for educational and informative purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical or professional advice. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.

Sustainability is sexy. But caring about the one and only planet we've been given means taking a good, hard look at how our habits impact the environment—and what we do in the bedroom is no exception.

Anyone who's gone green will tell you that navigating the maze of eco-friendly choices can be tricky. The fact that sustainability is making its way into the sex toy industry is a major win, but separating the real eco-friendly playthings from the greenwashed knockoffs is a task all its own. After all, manufacturers often make do-gooder claims that may or may not hold up to reality. So it's up to the consumer (A.K.A., you) to decode labels and find the true green gems.

Before you start going all Sherlock Holmes on your pleasure products, it's important to understand what makes a toy truly sustainable. Here’s everything you need to know about shopping for your pleasure and Mother Earth.

Ban The Batteries

Despite the push for rechargeable models, billions of batteries still end up in landfills across the globe every single day. While battery-operated vibrators may be more affordable, investing in a USB-rechargeable toy reduces battery waste and could even save you money over time.

Go Motorless

Even rechargeable vibrators have a shelf-life. Depending on the quality, you may get anywhere from six months to six years out of your battery-powered pleasure pal. But there are plenty of non-motorized options if you know where to look. Dildos, wands, and Lovability's WaterSlyde made from natural fibers or renewable materials, provide intense sensation without the use of electricity.

Opt For Post-Consumer or Biodegradable Materials

A lot of the sex toys you'll find on the shelf (both virtually and IRL) are made with materials that are no good for the planet. While biodegradable material is definitely a step up from plastic, post-consumer plastics are ideal because it gives new purpose to materials that already exist. Plus, it lasts a lot longer.

"My concern with biodegradables is that the lifespan isn't as long because the compounds are breaking up," she says. "So just double-check, make sure they're body-safe, and look at the lifespan."

Consider The Packaging

And finally, what your product comes in matters just as much as what it's made of. Packaging materials cause a lot of unnecessary waste, so check the brand's website for info on what type of materials they use and if any are recyclable or compostable. The less packaging, the better! That's why our WaterSlydes come simply in a box made of recycled materials to keep it from breaking during shipping—that's it.

Buying eco-friendly sex toys isn't always easy, but with a little effort, you can find quality options that make you feel good about your pleasure purchases. After all, our planet deserves just as much attention in the bedroom as we do.

Introducing The World's Most Eco-Friendly Sex Toy

Ready to get your green on? Meet the WaterSlyde in Eco-Ebony! Made from 100% post-consumer resin, this toy is not only eco-friendly but body-safe thanks to its medical-grade recyclable plastic and the fact you're just using the pleasurable stream of water. Plus, it doesn't require batteries or electricity to enjoy its powerful, pleasure-filled stream. For now, its only available on Lovability's website where it's shipped to buyers without any unnecessary packaging to further reinforce the messaging around sustainability.

And if you're worried about wasting water, Pollack offers a simple shift in perspective. "You're filling up your bathtub anyway," she says. "I like to joke with people that if you're not using it for pleasure, you're wasting potential energy."

Sustainability is sexy. But caring about the one and only planet we've been given means taking a good, hard look at how our habits impact the environment—and what we do in the bedroom is no exception :)

Lovability is partnered with 1% For The Planet, a global network of businesses, nonprofits, and individuals working together to protect Mother Earth. Every year, Lovability donates 1% of its annual revenue to nonprofits - such as Women's Voices For The Earth - that are bravely tackling some of today’s most pressing environmental issues. Every purchase you make contributes to not only a more pleasurable planet but a healthy one.

About The Author

Emily Blackwood is a freelance journalist committed to answering the plaguing question of what makes us truly happy. Turns out, it's a lot. Her work has been published in SELF, HuffPost, and YourTango. You can learn more here.

___________________________________________________

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is intended for educational and informative purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical or professional advice. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.

The holiday of lurve is upon us, which means the chocolate roses and heart-shaped home decor are out in full force. But instead of playing it safe and gifting the same old stuff every year, why not add a little bit of spice to your V-Day gift list?

Whether you’re buying something special for your partner, showering your squad for Galentine's Day, or indulging in some self-love this February 14th, these spicy treats will certainly bring the heat.

1. Aphrodisiacs 

5. Inconspicuous Storage

Everyone has a drawer—you know the one we're talking about—that contains all the naughty things you'd rather not have lying around the house. Give your bedroom that extra sprinkle of privacy it needs with a discreet storage box designed to hold all your sexiest trinkets. This vibrant silicone pouch from Babeland comes in three sizes and is perfect for hiding all your dirty little secrets.

6. Erotica Subscription

This one's for the bookworms in the house. Whether you're a fan of romance, erotica, or a little bit of both, there’s something for everyone at an audio erotic subscription service like Dipsea. 

Choose from exclusive stories from nearly every genre imaginable (vampires, anyone?) and let your imagination wander. A subscription to this female-founded platform makes the perfect gift for anyone who loves to immerse themselves in a world of steamy fiction.

7. Power & Pleasure Pack

In our opinion, there are two things every sexually empowered gal can't live without: lube and condoms. Make sure everyone in the group chat is armed with the necessities for a good time this V-Day with our Power & Pleasure Pack.

This bundle contains a pack of three condoms, a reusable carrying tin, and our HALLELUBEYAH® ORGANIC aloe lubricant. And the best part? All the contents are body-safe and made with all-natural ingredients, so you can feel good about getting it on.

8. Love Towels

Post-coitus clean-up isn't the sexiest activity. But having an ultra-soft, absorbent towel designed especially for the occasion on hand can make it a heck of a lot more enjoyable. Tushy Bamboo Bum Towels are not only environmentally friendly, but they're also naturally anti-bacterial, making them perfect for all kinds of intimate moments.

9. Roleplaying Gear

Don't let February 14th pass by without giving yourself a chance to bring your fantasies to life. Even something as subtle as a lacy masquerade mask or a pair of silky restraints can send your bedroom game to the next level. From frisky police officers to naughty babysitters, you can unleash your wildest desires with the help of some risqué role playing gear.

10. Booster Sex Pillow

Getting intimate is all about the angles. Give your lovemaking sessions a boost with a discreet wedge pillow. These specially designed cushions are the perfect tool for exploring all those extra-special positions, and this sex pillow from Dame provides just the right amount of support.

11. Mega Perfect Pack

If you really want to give the gift of spice this Valentine's Day, look no further than Mega Perfect Pack.  Lovability partnered with leading lingerie brand Hanky Panky® to bring you this super-hot bundle containing everything you need for the perfectly planned night of passion and pleasure.

Inside, you'll find: two Hanky Panky® thongs (one classic, one crotchless), HALLELUBEYAH® lubricant, 3 Condoms + Tin, and three of Quickies™ premium personal towelettes—basically everything you need to ensure maximum fun on V-Day. 

12. Silky Bedding

Is there anything sexier than slipping into bed with some silky sheets? We don't think so. Nothing upgrades your bedroom like a luxurious set of bedding, and this sheet set from MYK Silk is the perfect way to treat yourself (or your partner) to a night of sensual luxury. The hypoallergenic mulberry silk fabric will keep you cool throughout all those steamy moments.

13. Lingerie Subscription

For the girl who loves to add a little flair to her lingerie drawer, a subscription to a service like The Queen Box from Empress Mimi is just the thing. Every month, you'll get a surprise set of wire-free lingerie personalized for your size and style preferences delivered right to your doorstep. It's like Valentine's Day never ends!

14. Bringing Sexy Bath Kit

Baths can be a deeply sensual experience—especially when you have all the right products. Lovability's signature Bringing Sexy Bath Kit contains everything you need for a night of luxurious bath pleasure: our ThreePlay Massage Candle, Bomb Balm Arousal Balm, a Lovability Micro Fiber Hair Towel Wrap, and our viral body-safe sex toy, the WaterSlyde. Trust us, you won't want bath time to end.

Don’t Forget To Spoil Yourself

Valentine's Day is about celebrating love—and that includes self-love! You don't need to be in a serious relationship (or even a casual situationship) to indulge in the holiday. Whether you spend it with a lover, girlfriends, or solo, take this opportunity to give your body and spirit some much-deserved pampering with our spicy selection of goodies.

About The Author

Emily Blackwood is a freelance journalist committed to answering the plaguing question of what makes us truly happy. Turns out, it's a lot. Her work has been published in SELF, HuffPost, and YourTango. You can learn more here.

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Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is intended for educational and informative purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical or professional advice. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.

If you're a part of the Lovability fam, then you know we're BIG fans of lube.  While we'll sing lube's praises for penetration all day, it's not the only route to Pleasuretown you can take. There are some other, just as fun ways to experiment with lube that you might have yet to explore. 

So we picked the brains of some of the smartest pleasure educators around, and they gave us the down-low on seven of their favorite, creative ways to use lube.

#1 Moisturizer For Your Lips

No, not those lips (that's pretty obvious, right?), but if your other puckers are in need of a little moisture, Lovability Co-Founder and President, WaterSlyde inventor, and world-renowned pleasure queen Maureen Pollack has the best trick.

“I use our HALLELUBEYAH Organic Aloe lube as lip gloss,” she says with a sly smile. “I like to say that 'our lube is good for all your lips.' Try saturating your lips with lube. It’s seriously HOT. And because it's organic and super clean, I have no worries about doing mouth stuff after our lube has been applied.”

Another little secret Pollack shared. "Our Bomb Balm Arousal Balm has a plumping element to it, so I get major compliments when I use it on my lips. And I'm always like, 'Little do you know what's going on.'"

#2 Spice Up Your Couples' Massage 

A massage is a great way to relax and get in the mood. According to Nina Nguyen, a Berlin-based sex educator and co-founder of Fraulila.de, an LGBTQ+ platform in Germany, the only thing that would make massaging your partner's body even hotter is wetting your hands with a little lube.

"People forget lube isn't only for penetration," Nguyen says. "It has multiple uses and comes in many different forms. Although the standard water and silicone-based are perfect for sex, you can get lubricants that are great for massages as well.

"Any lube made for vaginal and/or anal use will have the oiliness needed for an awesome massage. Then you can ease into sex much better, which is more pleasurable for both partners."

#3 Spice It Up Even Further

Wanna really experience all the delicious magic lube can offer? Sex expert and educator for Bedbible Rachel Worthington invites you to take your massage a little further south.

"If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can also try a perineal massage," Worthington says. "Just add a dollop of lube to your fingers, warm it up a bit and then gently massage the area just below the anus. In penis owners, massaging this area can actually indirectly stimulate the prostate, but it can also feel super pleasurable for vulva owners, too."

When it comes to what kind of lube to use, Worthington says she always opts for oil-based as "they are long-lasting and often nourish the skin." Just be sure to avoid oils when using condoms or sex toys, as they can cause damage. If you're playing with a vibrator or using a condom, water-based lube is best.

#4 Upgrade Your Shower Sex

Shower sex is one of those things that's always great in theory. But water zaps the moisture out of your skin, which makes penetration really uncomfortable and even painful. Nguyen says that reaching for the lube is the answer.

"Most people have issues with lubrication in showers, jacuzzis, and tubs," she says. "Here is the best solution: you need silicone-based lube as it's water resistant and lasts longer than ordinary lube. Some stores carry lubes made specifically for underwater sex in any occasion, which can come in handy in other situations like naturist/nudist beaches, private swimming pools, and so on."

That's right, lube may just be the thing to make all your exhibitionist fantasies come true.

#5 Give Your Nips Some Love 

Who doesn't love a little nipple play? Any fans of this kind of foreplay should take Worthington's advice and introduce the girls to lube.

"If you have sensitive nipples and enjoy nipple stimulation during foreplay and sex, try dabbing a small amount on each nipple," she says. "Then have your partner stroke, squeeze or flick your nipples, and every sensation will suddenly feel even more intense. Plus, it will have a delightfully cooling effect, which can be intensified even more by gently blowing on the nipples."

#6 Try A 'BUSENFICK' 

Our boobs can feel so much more than we give them credit for. If you haven't experimented with them beyond the casual groping, erotic therapist and sensual massage educator Jazmin Light is about to rock your world.

"One way people can use lube, especially if they are into safe sex, is for a 'Busenfick,' as they call it in German," she says. "Boobfuck would be the literal translation." 

Don't be terrified of the brass, unromantic language. The actual act is much more inviting.

"Here's how it goes: you sensually smear the lube on and in between your breasts and on his shaft. And then, like a dolphin (male on his back, girl on top), glide your chest up and down on his shaft."

#7 Get Your Hands Dirty

Getting a little handsy is always fun, and licensed marriage and family therapist Shadeen Francis says you can make it even more fun with some lube. Just a warning: this can get a little messy.

"Any scratching during sex should be intentional and consensual," Francis says. "So I like to suggest that before any hand play, not just add a little lube to the area, but to put a generous squeeze of lube in their palms. Rub it into both sides of your hands, like you would if you were washing them. You can get some surprising sensations from the back side of your hand or between your fingers."

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As you can see, the sky is truly the limit when it comes to what lube can do for you. So the next time you're feeling frisky in the bedroom, grab a bottle of HALLELUBEYAH ORGANIC aloe-based lube and see what kind of (very fun) trouble you can get into.

About The Author

Emily Blackwood is a freelance journalist committed to answering the plaguing question of what makes us truly happy. Turns out, it's a lot. Her work has been published in SELF, HuffPost, and YourTango. You can learn more here.

___________________________________________________

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is intended for educational and informative purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical or professional advice. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.

Shopping for your next vibrator or picking up condoms for a hot date should be fun. But navigating aisles of products with unfamiliar ingredients that force you to decode labels can quickly turn a sexy errand into a stressful one.

In theory, certifications should be a helpful way to evaluate if a product is safe and effective. But in practice, the plethora of certifications—all of which are regulated by private organizations that have their own set of standards—can be really confusing. And to top it off, some certifications are more reputable than others.

So, how can you determine which labels to look for when you're shopping? And what does it mean when a product isn't certified? Here's a quick breakdown of some of the most common certifications you'll find on sexual products and what they actually mean.

What Does It Mean To Be Certified?

Outside of condoms and lube, the FDA does not regulate sexual health products. So your favorite dildos and do-dads can hit the market without any government approval.

You're not alone if that makes you feel icky. Private certifying organizations were created to fill the gap and give shoppers some guidance on what's safe to use.

When a company is certified, that means an outside organization has reviewed the product and deemed it safe for human use. So rather than just throwing the word "organic" on the label, for example, a company that's gone through the certification process can put a special "certified organic" logo on their products that tell you they've met a specific organization's standards.

Generally speaking, certifications are voluntary, and there's no universal standard that products have to meet in order to receive one. Each organization has different requirements, and some are more stringent than others. In other words, certifications aren't foolproof—but they are important for helping you make informed decisions, especially when the FDA isn't providing guidance.

Types Of Certifications To Consider

Advocating for your body (and your pleasure) goes beyond what goes down in the bedroom. Whether you're shopping online or IRL, taking the time to familiarize yourself with certifications can help you make informed decisions about what goes in and on your body. And that's pretty damn empowering.

Here are a few certifications that are popular in the sexual health space and what they really mean:

Organic: When it comes to our good 'ole pal personal lubricant, certified organic (or made with organic ingredients) is ideal. Because if a lubricant is labeled as organic, it should mean that the ingredients haven't interacted with any chemicals.

Vegan and Cruelty-Free: While the two certifications are often used interchangeably, they actually refer to two different things. A vegan product means it doesn't contain any animal products or byproducts, while a cruelty-free item wasn't tested on animals. Some certifying organizations, like PETA, look to cover both bases.

Fair Trade: Ever wonder where your condoms come from? If you want to be sure that they were made in ethical working conditions, look for a fair trade certification. This means that the workers who made your condoms (or lubricant, or sex toy, etc.) were treated fairly and paid a livable wage for their labor.

B Corp: You want to do good and feel good, so look for products that are manufactured by B Corporations. These are businesses that have been verified by the nonprofit B Lab to meet stringent standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. With this certification, you can be sure that your money is going to a company that's actually doing good in the world.

Gynecologist-Tested: Many popular washes and wipes on the market today claim to be gynecologist-tested. While that sounds like a pretty good indicator of safety, it's really nothing more than a marketing tactic. There's no third-party certifying organization that verifies this claim—it's simply something companies can say on their own. Ignore it and focus on the ingredients.

Associations That Certify

The certifications we just talked about are all well and good, but which organization can you actually trust?

Like all things in life, it's really up to you to determine which certifications matter to you and which ones don't. Put on your cute investigator cap and check out the certifying organization's website to learn more about their standards and process. Transparency is always a good sign, so look for organizations that are open about how they certify products and what requirements manufacturers have to meet.

Here are a few certifying bodies you'll likely see:

Leaping Bunny: One of the most popular certifications in the beauty industry, Leaping Bunny certification requires that a product and its ingredients aren't tested on animals at any point during development. [Note: products are exempted from the animal testing restriction when testing on an ingredient is required by a regulatory agency, such as the FDA.]

USDA Organic: The gold standard for organic certifications, the USDA requires that products bearing its label meet the rigorous standards set by the United States Department of Agriculture. Meaning their ingredients haven't been exposed to pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, or ionizing radiation.

Made Safe: A nonprofit organization that, through an internal audit process, assists companies selling household products that are not “toxic” to humans and the environment.

PETA: As we mentioned before, PETA certifies both vegan and cruelty-free products. To receive certification, a company must pledge that neither its products nor ingredients have been tested on animals at any point during development.

Vegan Society, Vegan.org, and Vegetarian Society: These certifying bodies all have different requirements, but the general idea is that products must be free of animal products and byproducts to earn certification. Being free of animal testing is not a part of this certification.

What If My Fav Product Is Not Certified?

Just because a product isn't certified doesn't mean it's a dealbreaker. Getting certified costs money and time, so some small or new companies may not be able to get certified right away. Not to mention that not all products qualify for the popular certifications that a lot of people look for. No organization certifies condoms as organic, for example, so look for other attributes when shopping condoms such as natural ingredients, vegan, sustainable, etc.

So while certifications can be helpful to evaluate and trust a product, there are several other factors to consider when deciding how to shop for body-safe sex toys and essentials:

Natural Ingredients & Body-Safe Materials: Nothing is more important than reading the label to determine whether the ingredients are truly healthy and body-safe. Every product, whether it's for contraception or pleasure, has its own unique set of guidelines and any company selling a product should be fully transparent—from a full list of ingredients and explicit directions for use, to sourcing of its materials and the sustainability of its operations. And if you ask a question and get an evasive answer, that's not a good sign.

Shared Values: Head over to the About page and get to know the company—its founders, its mission—and ask yourself if these are people and values you want to support. There's no shortage of purchasing options out there, so you might as well feel reeeaaaally good about the company you're buying from as well as what's going inside your body.

Partners: Look at the company's partners—all of them. If they sell their products with a natural grocer you trust, for example, you can bet that retailer did their homework to affirm the product is not only worthy of their shelf-space but aligned with their values. Likewise, if the company supports organizations that protect the environment or amplify women's voices, those are actions that transcend marketing jargon.

Knowledge is Sexy - And Powerful

You deserve to feel confident and informed about the products you use, especially when it comes to something as personal as sexual health. So do your research. While certifications are a helpful way to evaluate products, they're not the be-all and end-all. Dig in to the ingredients, ask questions if the FAQs don't address your question, explore the values of the company manufacturing the products as well as the retailer selling them to you.

The more you know, the more empowered you'll be to make the best choices for your body—and that's pretty damn sexy.

About The Author

Emily Blackwood is a freelance journalist committed to answering the plaguing question of what makes us truly happy. Turns out, it's a lot. Her work has been published in SELF, HuffPost, and YourTango. You can learn more here.

___________________________________________________

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is intended for educational and informative purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical or professional advice. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.

In the heat of the moment, you're just worried about whether you even have a condom—not what's in it. But the ingredients in your favorite condom, lube or emotional support vibrator matter more than you think.

The skin is the largest organ in the human body, and it absorbs everything that it comes into contact with. While there are no cases of anyone dying from a toxic dildo, phthalates (which are super harmful to the body) are heavily present in a lot of conventional sex toys. Wipes, lube, and condoms can also contain chemicals that may irritate your hoo-ha or cause an allergic reaction. And nothing kills the mood faster than a condom-induced rash.

Shopping for body-safe products (click here to learn what that fun term really means) can be a minefield. But it's important to be an informed consumer even when you're stocking your bedside drawer essentials. 

The only person who can truly advocate for your sexual health and pleasure is…well...you. So use this guide to help navigate your next sexy shopping spree so you can get down to business worry-free.

Why Body-Safe Products Matter

When we think of safety and sex, our minds usually jump to STIs and pregnancy prevention. And while those are both (very) valid concerns, what products you use before, during and even after the deed is just as important.

The world is starting to catch up to the non-toxic movement, but the sexual wellness industry is still lagging behind. That means a lot of products on the market are made with harmful chemicals and materials that can screw with your hormones, cause irritation and even lead to long-term health problems.

So what is a healthy or body-safe product? It's free of chemicals like phthalates, parabens, fragrances, and other irritating nasties. When something is marketed as body-safe, that should mean it won’t leach toxins into your system, and it won’t screw with your delicate pH balance.

While body-safe products are great for everyone, they're especially important for people with vulvas. The vagina is a self-cleaning machine, but that doesn't mean it's indestructible. In fact, it's pretty sensitive and can be easily irritated by harsh chemicals found in most conventional lubes and sex toys.

These chemicals can throw off your vaginal pH, which can lead to infections like bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections. They can also cause all sorts of irritation, from burning and itching to redness and swelling. In short: using non-body-safe products down there is a recipe for disaster.

How To Decode Ingredients Lists & Find Body-Safe Pleasure

Unfortunately, being body-safe isn't as simple as looking for products that describe themselves as such. The general rule of thumb when shopping for things that are good for us is to trust the ingredient list over the label.  

The thing is, anyone can put "body-safe" on their product—even if it's not. So it's important to know what ingredients to look for (and which ones to avoid) when perusing your favorite sex shop IRL or virtually. Below, we break down how to decipher the back of the box on most kinds of adult purchases you can make.

Condoms

Grabbing a rubber from the gas station around the corner may be convenient in a time of need, but many popular brands are still using harmful chemicals in their condoms.

Flavoring may sound like a fun way to spice it up, but the artificial ingredients used (and often not disclosed) in flavors can cause irritation and even infection if your body has a reaction to them. The same rule goes for flavored lube, some of which are actually not safe to swallow. So before you start experimenting with the power of taste, read the ingredient list.

Another ingredient to watch out for is spermicide. Many condoms are made with spermicide to give their rubbers an extra punch of pregnancy prevention power. While it's generally safe for most people, it can cause vaginal irritation and even increase your risk for STDs and HIV if used too often. condoms that are completely free of parabens, fragrances, and spermicide—everything you need, nothing you don't.

While nitrosamines have been getting a bad rap for being linked to cancer, you'll still find them in even the most body-safe condoms as they're needed to help keep the elasticity of the latex. Fortunately, research has found that the levels of this chemical in condoms are so incredibly low that you're not really putting yourself at risk for cancer.

Vegans should also beware of casein, a dairy protein commonly used in condom manufacturing. There are plenty of options that don't use animal products, so do some research to find ones that fit your ethical standards as well as your body.

What to look for:

- FDA 510(k) cleared

- Spermicide free

- Latex-free (if you have a latex allergy)

- Paraben-free

- Fragrance-free

- Dye-free

- No artificial flavors

- Gluten-free

- No detectable nitrosamines

What to avoid:

- Parabens

- Gluten

- PEG's

- Benzocaine

- Artificial flavors

- Spermicide

- Detectable nitrosamines

Toys & Vibrators

Whether you're playing with a partner or taking a solo journey to Pleasure Town, sex toys can take your encounters to new and thrilling heights. The last thing you want is for your fun to be cut short or sidelined by an allergic reaction or infection. 

You know those jelly-like vibrators from your local sex shop? The ones that are super cheap and come in every color of the rainbow? Yeah, those are usually made with an endocrine-disrupting compound called Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). Not only is this material porous (aka a bacteria magnet), but it also often contains harmful additives like phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA). In other words, it's the furthest thing from being body-safe.

Instead of opting for the cheapest thing on the shelf, look for vibrators made from 100% percent medical-grade silicone or medical-grade polystyrene. This material is non-porous, hypoallergenic, and can be easily cleaned with soap and water (or sex toy cleaner). It's also compatible with all types of lube, so you can experiment to your heart's content. Borosilicate glass, medical-grade stainless steel, and even polished natural stone (looking at you, crystal girlies) are other great body-safe materials for sex toys.

When it comes to winning the award for the most natural, body-safe sex toy on the market, the WaterSlyde takes the cake. This patented pleasure device eliminates the need for uncomfy bathtub yoga and diverts a hypnotic stream of water right where it counts - hello, water orgasm! Because water is the only ingredient touching your sensitive skin, the WaterSlyde is the reigning king of body-safe products. Bathtub masturbation has never been easier or more pleasurable.

What to look for:

- 100% medical-grade silicone or polystyrene

- 100% Borosilicate glass

- 100% medical-grade stainless steel

- 100% polished natural stone

What to avoid:

- Toys that are not 100% of one of the above single materials

- Toys that have a strong chemical smell (silicone has no odor)

- Toys that aren’t glass or medical-grade polystyrene that are still see-through (silicone is always cloudy)

- Toys that leave behind a residue when touched (silicone would NEVER)

Personal Lubricants

Lube has the power to make or break your night. You want something that's going to enhance your experience without causing any unwanted irritation. But unfortunately, many of the handy lubes you'd find at the store are loaded with stuff that can seriously mess with your bodily chemistry.

Take parabens, for example. This group of chemicals can disrupt your endocrine system to the point of reproductive harm. I'm talking infertility, birth defects, and even increasing your risk for cancer. Parabens are everywhere and luckily companies across the cosmetic and body care industry are starting to remove them. But lubricants seem to be late to the game.

Propylene glycol and synthetic glycerin are two other ingredients you'll commonly find in lube that can actually damage your vaginal tissue—A.K.A., the area in which you'll be directly applying it.

You shouldn't have to expose yourself to toxic chemicals just to get things wet and wild. Choose a personal lubricant that is body-safe and made with ingredients that won’t disrupt your pH. And make sure it is FDA cleared as a Class II medical device. That way you will KNOW beyond a shadow of a doubt that you're putting something pure and good on and into your body. 

What to look for:

- Edible

- Paraben-free

- Plant-based ingredients

- FDA cleared Class II medical device

What to avoid:

- Parabens

- Fragrance

- Artificial flavors

- Siloxanes

- Silanes

- PEGs

- Propylene Glycol

- Synthetic Glycerin

- Lube that isn't edible or ingestible

Personal Wipes

And finally, it's clean-up time. Chances are, you're going to want to use some type of wipe to freshen up after your fun (seriously, is there anything better than a soothing, moisturizing after-sex towelette?). But beware—many popular cleansing wipes contain chemicals that can actually do more harm than good.

Fragrances, PEGs, PET, parabens, silicones, and silanes are not just bad for your body; they're bad for the environment too. PET (or Polyethylene Terephthalate) is the same material used to make Coke bottles and can take forever to decompose. So when you're done with your post-playtime wipe, it'll just sit in a landfill for years to come.

If you want a wipe that is gentle to both your body and the earth, make sure it has plant-based ingredients. While they’re technically flushable, do Mother Nature a solid and don’t throw them in the toilet.

What to look for:

- Plant-based ingredients

- Flushable and compostable

- pH-balanced

- Paraben-free

- Non-GMO

- Fragrance-free

What to avoid:

- Parabens

- Phthalates

- Sulfates

- Fragrances

- Perfumes

- Alcohol

- Gluten

- Synthetic Glycerin

- PET or PETE

- PEGs

- Silicones

- Silanes

Shop With Confidence

You should feel confident and safe when exploring your sexuality. So don't let toxic ingredients get in the way of a good time. When shopping for sex toys and essentials, keep this guide handy to make sure you're getting the best (and safest) products for your body.

About The Author

Emily Blackwood is a freelance journalist committed to answering the plaguing question of what makes us truly happy. Turns out, it's a lot. Her work has been published in SELF, HuffPost, and YourTango. You can learn more here.

___________________________________________________

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is intended for educational and informative purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical or professional advice. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.

Being safe in the bedroom means more than just asking for consent and choosing a respectful partner (though those things are mega crucial too). What you use during sexy time  - from the condom and personal lubricant to the massage candle and the pleasure device - is just as important.

Many sex essentials and toy products that come into contact with your nether regions contain harsh ingredients or materials that can throw off your delicate balance and irritate your skin. The potential for mood-killing is high enough to send most people down the rabbit hole of "healthy" alternatives.

Terms like "natural," "clean," and "toxin-free," sound great, but they're often vague, unregulated, and sometimes completely unrelated to the nature of the product itself. You shouldn't have to be a chemist to pick out a good lube, arousal balm, or sex toy, so we're peeling back the curtain on what some of these so-called healthy labels really mean.

Can We Trust Labels?

In theory, labels are supposed to give us consumers insight into what we're buying and using. But there's no shortage of words and terms companies use to make their products sound healthier, safer, or more environmentally friendly that don't always have meaning.

Taking responsibility for your sexual health and wellness means not blindly trusting marketing buzzwords on a label and doing a little more diligence. The more you know about what goes into your products, the more confident you can be about using them.

What Does It Mean When A Product Is Marketed As "Natural"?

The FDA currently has no formal definition for "natural" but they have suggested that it "means that nothing artificial or synthetic." Of course, this mainly applies to food—not condoms, personal lubricant, or vibrators.

In the context of sex, "natural" should mean the product is made with plant-based or mineral ingredients as opposed to chemicals. A good rule of thumb is to see if you can recognize the ingredients on the list. If you can't pronounce it or have never heard of it before, it's probably not natural.

Still, the word "natural" is kind of a benign term that companies use to make their products sound healthy. So even if a product is marketed as "natural," more research is usually needed to see if the ingredients are actually safe for your body.

Does Body-Safe Mean It Is Safe For Your Body?

The term "body-safe" is used a lot in the toy industry to describe products made without sketchy materials that leach toxins and irritate your skin (gross, right?). Body-safe products are non-porous and smooth, so they don't harbor bacteria the way something non-safe can.

While the label itself can be helpful and reassuring, it's important to note that there is no legal definition of "body-safe" by the FDA. Just because a product is marketed as safe doesn't necessarily mean that it is.

The best way to tell if a product gets the green light in safety is to check the materials. When it comes to your favorite play things, medical-grade polystyrene (hello, WaterSlyde) or silicone, stainless steel, or borosilicate glass are all good bets.

What About Non-Toxic and Toxin-Free?

The word "toxin" usually conjures up images of industrial waste and smoggy skies, but there are toxins all around us—even in our bedrooms. Chemicals like phthalates and parabens are added to many conventional sex products to make them softer, more flexible, or longer lasting. But they can also throw our hormones out of whack and increase our risk of cancer.

Considering that horrifying information, I understand the need to grab anything labeled "toxin-free." But unfortunately, that word also lives in the wild west of unregulated FDA terms. The only way to be 100% sure your lube or personal wipes are free of harmful chemicals is to diligently check the ingredients list for known offenders (which we'll get to in a minute).

How About Chemical-Free?

"Chemical-free" is another one of those terms that doesn't actually mean anything. To be clear, everything is made of chemicals. The air you breathe, the water you drink, and even your own body is a big ol' chemistry experiment.

When people talk about "chemical-free" products, they usually mean products that don't contain synthetic ingredients or harsh chemicals. But since there's no legal definition, the term can be used pretty liberally on labels. For example, glycerin is regularly called out as a dangerous chemical but there's no distinction made between vegetable glycerin - derived from oils and fats - and synthetic glycerin - derived from petroleum.

Again, don't put too much stock in this kind of marketing and always check the ingredients list.

It's Organic So It Must Be Good, Right?

Our friends at the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) don't regulate the word "organic." That's the domain of the Agricultural Marketing Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) —traditionally for food but it can pertain to any other agricultural products. For cosmetics, body care and personal care products, for example, they can be certified as organic if they are made up of "agricultural ingredients which are organically produced."

An important point to understand here is that the label organic refers to how the food or product is produced or made, and not to what it actually contains. So while an organic lubricant can't be made with pesticides or synthetic fertilizers, it could still be made with materials that may cause a reaction. 

There are also ground rules which allow for use of the word "organic" where perhaps not all of the ingredients are, in fact, organic. Are 95% of the ingredients certified organic? Great - you can call it organic. If only 70% - you can offer "made with" your organic ingredients. Less than 70%? No problem - you can still call out the specific ingredients that are organic. 

Another tip - just because your favorite mag lists a product in an article on the "10 Best Organic Lubes" doesn't necessarily make it so. Yup, always check the ingredients - and if it's not 100% clear, ask the company who makes it!

Yes, Of Course I Want My Products To Be Vegan

When it comes to veganism, there are a lot of different levels. For some people, it's a dietary restriction and for others, it's a lifestyle choice that extends well into the bedroom. 

When it comes to products, vegan generally means that no animal-related ingredients were used and no animals were harmed in making them. Condoms, for example, can be considered vegan if they don't contain casein, a protein found in dairy that can help to soften the latex so that the rubber (condoms) is smooth and thin. 

Some products get a vegan certification from an organization like PETA while others use a "100% Vegan" label on their products. In either case, take the claim with a grain of salt and, yes, check the ingredients list.

What Is Non-GMO? Why Is That Relevant Here?

Here's where things get a little science-y. GMOs, or Genetically Modified Organisms, are created in a lab by manipulating the genes of a plant or animal. This is usually done to make the food pest-resistant or herbicide-tolerant.

While the FDA maintains that GMOs are safe to eat, there are some animal studies that suggest otherwise. Accelerated aging, infertility, and immune system dysfunction have all been linked to GMO exposure. And since GMOs can be absorbed through your skin, it's not a bad idea to avoid them in your lubes and condoms. FYI- the butterfly symbol on a Non-GMO Project certification label signifies that the product went through a rigorous process to ensure it doesn't contain any GMOs.

But here's the kicker: labeling something GMO-free or non-GMO - like condoms, for example - when it does not logically contain any chemicals that might be GMO is essentially marketing a distinction without there being any difference. In other words, it's done strictly for marketing purposes to stand out from competitors and not because it's signifying a substantive difference from other brands.

It's A Clean Product? That Sounds Nice.

Some labels mean specific things you can wrap your head around and others are about as clear as mud. Clean is one of those terms. It's often used to describe products that don't contain any synthetic ingredients—but again, since there's no legal definition, it can be used pretty liberally on labels.

Rather than rely on a nebulous term like clean, take a look at the ingredients list to get an idea of what's actually in the product. If you find a bunch of crazy-looking, unpronounceable words, put it back on the shelf.

Plant-Based? We Can Get Behind That!

Yep—animal products can be lurking in some pretty unexpected places. And while you might not be down with wearing leather or eating eggs, you might not realize that some of your personal care items contain animal by-products.

So what's a compassionate consumer to do? Look for products that are plant-based. This means that they were made without any animal products or byproducts and no animals were harmed in the making of the product. Organizations like NSF and the Plant Based Foods Association have certification programs to ensure products are truly animal-free.

While it's still a marketing tool, plant-based at least has some logic to go along with that good feeling. 

Good For Sensitive Skin? Pregnancy Safe?

Some people need to take extra precautions when choosing personal care products due to skin sensitivities or pregnancies. Terms like "good for sensitive skin" may lead you to believe that a product is gentle enough for anyone to use—but that's not always the case.

Products labeled as sensitive usually refer to being gentle enough for those with sensitive skin—but since there's no legal definition, it's not regulated. So while the product might be less likely to cause a reaction, it's not guaranteed.

Pregnancy-safe products, on the other hand, have to meet certain FDA criteria to be able to use that label. Products that are safe for pregnant people to use will usually be clearly marked as such, but if you're unsure, check with your doctor before using anything new.

Chemicals To Avoid In Sexual Health Products

Respect for you and your body starts with what you put on (and in) it. So let's avoid the following nasty chemicals as much as we can:

- Synthetic Glycerin

- Propylene Glycol

- Parabens

- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

- Trimethyltin Chloride

- Phthalates

- Toluene

- PEGs

About Nitrosamines In Condoms: Do They Cause Cancer? (Answer: NO)

A few years an article was published entitled "Are Condoms Killing You?" The question was raised because a carcinogenic substance is commonly found in latex condoms (as with baby bottle nipples, it helps to maintain elasticity). Fair question to ask, except for the fact it was suggested by the researcher that only condoms "free of nitrosamines" were safe while others might cause cancer. This myth was destroyed after researchers determined that the level of nitrosamines in latex in condoms is so very, very low and doesn't pose a risk. They estimated that if a person used ~1,500 condoms over the course of their life, the amount of nitrosamines transferred from that number of condoms would need to be one million (!) times higher for there to be even the possibility of being considered toxic. Fear mongering aside, the World Health Organization recommended to the condom industry that it reduce nitrosamine levels and they continue to do so. 

Bottom line: as a consumer, look for brands claiming to be "non-detectable" - a level so small that it is considered statistically insignificant - if not nitrosamine-free.

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No product will ever be 100% perfect and more research is being done every day to help us understand the effects of these chemicals on our bodies. A great organization (and one Lovability is proud to partner with) which is working to eliminate toxic chemicals that harm our health and the environment is Women's Voices For The Earth.  

The point is not to live in fear of an ingredient label. It is to be mindful of what you are exposing yourself to and make the best choices you can with the information you have. So don't be fooled by pretty packaging or nice-sounding labels. Do your research, talk to your doctor if you have questions, and find products that work for you and make you feel good—inside and out.

About The Author

Emily Blackwood is a freelance journalist committed to answering the plaguing question of what makes us truly happy. Turns out, it's a lot. Her work has been published in SELF, HuffPost, and YourTango. You can learn more here.

___________________________________________________

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is intended for educational and informative purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical or professional advice. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.