How do I use Astroglide? Intercourse hurts, and I would like it not to. Should I pour it into my hand and then rub it on him, or do I squirt it into me? The only time I tried it, I poured it into my hand, but then I wanted to go wash my hands before doing anything else. As you can probably tell, I'm pretty sexually inexperienced.

Jen

Astroglide is a brand of water-based lubricant. It is safe to use with condoms. (Petroleum-based lubricants such as Vaseline are NOT -- they can degrade the latex in condoms and diaphragms.) Astroglide or any other water-based lubricant may be applied directly to the penis by either partner, or it may be applied to the woman's genitals, either externally or inside the vagina. The lubricant can be squirted on directly or can be poured into the hand or on the fingertips and then applied. Additional lubricant can be used as needed during intercourse.

There's no right or wrong way to use lubricants. Experiment with what works best for you. Applying lubricant can even be a part of foreplay. Remember, though, that lubricants are not spermicides and therefore do not help to prevent pregnancy.