We do recommend that you use some sort of gel or all you will get is a bunch of static especially when you move the Womb Music around on your belly. The gel helps it slide across your skin when you are moving it around and reduces the static.We recommend using either Aloe Vera, KY (or another personal lubricant) or something similar. We've even had customers report that Baby Oil, Coconut Oil, Virgin Olive Oil or even Vaseline all work well are lubricants that most folks have handy already in their home. Your experience will be best if you use a liberal amount of gel also.We do however suggest that you don't use colored gels or lotions. The gel is not included with the Womb Music monitor.