The benefit of using an iso-osmolar lubricant instead of a petrochemical-based hyperosmolar lubricant is that you can get the vaginal lubrication you need for intimacy without compromising your health.The vaginal ecosystem is delicate and introducing the wrong substances can put you at risk for bacterial vaginosis (BV), yeast infections, and other mishaps. To avoid all that, look for a lubricant that mimics natural vaginal lubrication, also known as an iso-osmolar or iso-osmotic. Studies show that personal lubricants that don’t match vaginal salt balance (“hyperosmolar” lubricants) can damage both cervical cells and rectal cells, which may increase your susceptibility to a variety of infections. On the other hand, natural lubricants that do match your salt balance (“iso-osmolar” lubricants) leave cells healthy. You don’t need any cell damage in the most sensitive parts of your body — so reach for the iso-osmolar lube!