Best Fertility-Friendly Lubricants 2026
Regular lubricants can harm sperm. Here are the FDA-cleared options that won't.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Pre-Seed — Original fertility lubricant, most studied
- Best Runner-Up: Conceive Plus — Contains calcium and magnesium ions
- Best Natural: BabyDance — Paraben-free, all-natural formula
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Good Clean Love BioGenesis — Organic, minimal ingredients
Why Regular Lubricants Are a Problem
When you're trying to conceive, the lubricant you use matters more than you might think. Most regular lubricants can damage sperm and reduce your chances of conception.
How Regular Lubricants Harm Sperm
pH imbalance: Healthy cervical mucus has a pH of 7.0-8.5, which is ideal for sperm. Many lubricants are acidic (pH 4-5), which can kill sperm on contact.
Osmolality problems: The concentration of dissolved particles in a lubricant affects sperm. If it's too different from the body's natural fluids, it can cause sperm cells to shrivel or swell, damaging them.
Sperm motility reduction: Studies show that popular lubricants like KY Jelly and Astroglide can reduce sperm motility by 60-100% within minutes of exposure.
Lubricants to Avoid When TTC
- KY Jelly
- Astroglide
- Most drugstore lubricants
- Petroleum-based products (Vaseline)
- Saliva (contains enzymes that can harm sperm)
- Coconut oil (not tested for sperm safety)
📊 What "Fertility-Friendly" Means
Lubricants labeled "fertility-friendly" or "sperm-friendly" have been tested to ensure they don't harm sperm motility or viability. Look for FDA-cleared products that have undergone testing according to WHO standards.
Quick Comparison Chart
| Product | FDA Cleared | pH Matched | Format | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Seed | ✓ | ✓ pH 7.4 | Tube + Applicators | $22-26 |
| Conceive Plus | ✓ | ✓ pH 7.0 | Tube or Applicators | $18-22 |
| BabyDance | ✓ | ✓ pH 7.0 | Tube | $20-25 |
| Good Clean Love BioGenesis | ✓ | ✓ | Tube | $16-20 |
| JO Actively Trying | ✓ | ✓ | Tube | $15-20 |
Our Top Picks: Detailed Reviews
Pre-Seed Fertility-Friendly Lubricant
✓ Pros
- Original fertility lubricant—most studied
- FDA-cleared; pH and osmolality matched to fertile cervical mucus
- Comes with applicators for internal use
- Mimics natural fluids
- Recommended by reproductive endocrinologists
✗ Cons
- Contains parabens (preservatives)
- Some find the texture watery
- Applicators can be awkward to use
Pre-Seed is the original fertility lubricant and remains the gold standard. It was developed by a scientist who recognized that regular lubricants were harming sperm. The formula is specifically designed to match the pH, osmolality, and consistency of fertile cervical mucus.
The kit includes applicators for internal application, which allows the lubricant to be placed near the cervix where it can best support sperm. You can also use it externally like regular lubricant.
Pre-Seed has the most clinical research behind it and is frequently recommended by fertility specialists.
Best for: Anyone TTC who needs lubricant, couples recommended by RE.
Conceive Plus Fertility Lubricant
✓ Pros
- Contains calcium and magnesium ions (may support sperm)
- FDA-cleared
- Available in tube or individual applicators
- Paraben-free formula available
- Good consistency—less watery than Pre-Seed
✗ Cons
- Less research than Pre-Seed
- Some varieties contain parabens (check label)
Conceive Plus adds calcium and magnesium ions to its formula, which the company claims may support sperm function. While this isn't definitively proven to improve conception rates over other fertility lubricants, it's a nice differentiator.
Many users prefer Conceive Plus's texture—it's slightly thicker than Pre-Seed and feels more like traditional lubricant. Available in a tube (for external use) or pre-filled applicators (for internal use).
Best for: Those who prefer a thicker texture, anyone looking for Pre-Seed alternative.
BabyDance Fertility Lubricant
✓ Pros
- Paraben-free
- No glycerin (less likely to cause yeast issues)
- FDA-cleared
- Made in USA
- Clean ingredient list
✗ Cons
- Doesn't come with applicators
- Smaller tube than competitors
- Slightly higher price per ounce
BabyDance is the choice for those who want a cleaner ingredient list. It's paraben-free and doesn't contain glycerin, which can contribute to yeast infections in sensitive individuals.
The formula is FDA-cleared and sperm-tested. The main limitation is that it doesn't include applicators for internal use—you'll use it externally like regular lubricant.
Best for: Those who prioritize natural ingredients, anyone prone to yeast infections.
Good Clean Love BioGenesis
Good Clean Love BioGenesis is FDA-cleared as fertility-friendly while using organic, minimal ingredients. It's a good choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies to common lubricant ingredients.
The formula is designed to support sperm while being gentle on the body.
Best for: Sensitive skin, organic preference, minimal ingredient seekers.
How to Use Fertility Lubricants
Internal Application (with applicators)
- Fill the applicator with lubricant (follow package instructions)
- Insert applicator and deposit lubricant near the cervix
- Apply 15-30 minutes before intercourse for best results
- Use sparingly—a little goes a long way
External Application
- Apply small amount to the vaginal opening and/or penis
- Use only as much as needed for comfort
- Reapply as needed during intercourse
💡 Tips
- Less is more. Don't over-apply—you want sperm to travel easily, not swim through excessive lubricant.
- Focus on fertile days. Use fertility lubricant during your fertile window; other times, regular lubricant is fine.
- Give it time. If using internal applicators, apply 15-30 minutes before to let it distribute naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need fertility lubricant if I produce enough natural lubrication?
No! If you have adequate natural lubrication, you don't need any additional lubricant. Fertility-friendly lubricants are for those who need lubrication for comfort—they don't improve fertility beyond not harming sperm.
Will fertility lubricant increase my chances of getting pregnant?
Fertility lubricants don't increase fertility—they simply don't harm it like regular lubricants do. Think of them as "neutral" rather than "helpful." If you don't need lubricant at all, that's actually ideal.
Can I use coconut oil instead?
While coconut oil is often suggested as natural alternative, it hasn't been tested for sperm compatibility according to WHO standards. We recommend sticking with FDA-cleared fertility lubricants if you're actively TTC.
Is Pre-Seed or Conceive Plus better?
Both are FDA-cleared and effective. Pre-Seed has more research behind it. Conceive Plus has a thicker texture some prefer. Try whichever appeals to you—both are safe for TTC.
Do I need to use the internal applicators?
No—external use is also effective. Internal application places lubricant closer to where sperm need to go, but external application is simpler and works fine for most couples.
The Bottom Line
If you need lubricant while TTC, switch to a fertility-friendly option. Pre-Seed is the most studied and widely recommended. Conceive Plus is a great alternative with a thicker texture. BabyDance is the cleanest formula if you want to avoid parabens.
Remember: the best option is natural lubrication when possible. But when you need help, these products ensure you're not inadvertently harming your chances. 💚