• Propylene Glycol (PG) | A water-soluble humectant with strong lubricating properties.
• Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) | A thickening agent that contributes to the gel-like consistency.
• Polyethylene Oxide (PEO) | A water-soluble humectant with extreme lubricating properties.

These ingredients aren't exclusive to obstetrical lubes. They are also used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. In these industries, they are loosely regulated by governmental agencies such as the FDA and European EMA and EFSA.

For the sake of simplicity, Fist Theory groups PG and CMC-based lubes together into a single category: obstetrical lube. This classification is due to the most readily accessible commercial source of these ingredients: farm supply stores. Farm supply stores market PG and CMC lubes as J-Jelly, General Lubricant, and OB Lube (among others).

Farm supply stores also sell J Lube which is a PEO-based lube commonly used by fisters. Fist Theory groups J Lube with other PEO-based lubes despite its use on the ranch for obstetrical purposes.

Obstetrical lubricants are available as ready-to-use liquids or in powder mix forms. Liquids that are ready-made contain preservatives to extend shelf life. Powdered obstetrical lubes may not have any preservatives and should be discarded after a session.

As with all other lubricants, fisters ignore standards published by manufacturers, the FDA, the EFSA, and the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO recommends a maximum intake of 11.4 mg of propylene glycol per 2.2 kg (1 pound) of body weight (25 mg/kg) per day. In a single session, fisters may be exposed to 500 times that amount.

The use of propylene glycol in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals is usually frowned upon by health-conscious individuals that prefer all natural ingredients; however, the FDA and EFSA consider them as safe . The primary reasoning is that CMC and PG can trigger an immune response resulting in inflammation, discomfort, intestinal distress, and potentially anaphylactic (full body) allergic reactions.

In the fist chute, PG is similar to glycerine and PEO. They are hyperosmolaric. Hyperosmolaric substances can cause damage to capillaries and cell walls in mucosal tissues. Although hyperosmolaric damage is minor, repeated damage can ultimately affect the physiological function of the lower GI tract.

In regard to microbial colonization, CMC displays similar qualities to PEO. Propylene glycol is often used as an antimicrobial agent.

Propylene glycol is sometimes confused with ethylene glycol. Ethylene glycol is the sweet tasting ingredient in anti-freeze and is toxic to animals and humans. Propylene glycol is sometimes used as an additive in certain antifreezes but has no taste and is not toxic at low levels.

Obstetrical lubricants are safe for all toys and all gear.

Cleanup varies based on the type of obstetrical lube. For CMC, follow gum sanitation procedures. For propylene glycol, follow PEO sanitation procedures. No veterinary lubes are known to stain. furniture, clothing, or bedding if handled correctly.

Discard any CMC or propylene glycol used in the play area immediately after a session. Refrigerated CMC that was stored away from the play area may last a few days. Propylene glycol stores indefinitely.

Follow any expiration dates for veterinary lubes; discard any powdered lube older than two years. Propylene glycol is stable for at least two years when stored at ambient temperatures in closed containers and away from sunlight and other sources of UV light. Discard remaining lube after two years as it will have degraded and lost lubricity.

Safety data sheets for PEOs (such as J Lube) suggest that the lubrication should not be introduced into the sewer system or released onto the soil or bodies of water.

Safety data sheets for both CMC and PG indicate they will biodegrade naturally and cause no harm to the environment or aquatic animals. They can be poured down the drain to be processed by sewage systems.

Recycle empty containers.