Sex expert issues major warning over Valentine's Day bedroom mistake that can lead to worrying issue

A warning has been issued by sex experts over a potential bedroom mistake that could cause problems.

It's officially Valentine's Day, and for all you lovebirds out there, I'm sure there are extensive plans mapped out for tonight followed by more plans.

It is the day of love after all, so it's understandable that you'd want to show your significant other that love in more ways than one.

You may have a fancy dinner or some fun date activities planned, but there is a certain aspect after - or maybe even before - your date that is an activity of choice for many.

Being intimate with your partner is almost a given on this celebrated day, and you may be looking to turn things up a notch in the bedroom.

You might do this by incorporating the use of lube into your plans, but before you do, experts at Condoms UK have urged the public to check something first.

The sex experts have warned people to check the expiry date of their lube before using it.

Condoms UK stated that there are a number of benefits to using lubricants in intimate moments, but it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks involved with using expired products.

The experts said: "Using expired lube can lead to various allergic reactions and infections. The chemicals in personal lubricants can degrade over time, potentially causing irritants that lead to reactions."

They also explained that it could disrupt the body's optimal PH, 'increasing the risk of yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis'.

In addition, allergic reactions to expired lube can cause 'itching, rash, swelling, hives, burning', and in extreme cases, 'breathing issues and anaphylaxis', also known as a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.

So I think it might be worth double-checking the date.

The experts warned that it can heighten the 'risk of genital infection and irritation', with symptoms of 'uncomfortable itching or even burning'.

But, how can you certainly tell if your lube is out of date or not?

If lube is stored properly, experts say that it will last for up to three years.

However, oil or silicone-based lubes have a longer lifespan than water-based ones, as a higher water content causes them to spoil at a faster rate.

Something worth considering next time you pop out to the shops.

There are six tell-tale signs that your lubricant is past its expiry date and it's time to get rid:

• If it has changed in smell or texture.
• If it is edible lube and the flavour has changed or has an unpleasant aftertaste.
• If it feels stickier, or has reduced glide.
• If you have suddenly started experiencing skin infections after using it.
• If ingredients in the container are beginning to separate, signalling the composition of the lube being compromised.
• Finally a bit of a no-brainer, if there is mould or mildew visible in the lubricant, please throw it away.

Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock Images

Topics: Health, Valentine's Day, Sex and Relationships

Joshua Nair

Joshua Nair is a journalist at LADbible. Born in Malaysia and raised in Dubai, he has always been interested in writing about a range of subjects, from sports to trending pop culture news. After graduating from Oxford Brookes University with a BA in Media, Journalism and Publishing, he got a job freelance writing for SPORTbible while working in marketing before landing a full-time role at LADbible. Unfortunately, he's unhealthily obsessed with Manchester United, which takes its toll on his mental and physical health. Daily.

@joshnair10