Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal Dryness
What causes vaginal dryness?
Vaginal dryness is a very common problem, which can affect women at any age, however mainly occurs during and after the menopause. This is because during reproductive years oestrogen plays a key role in maintaining a healthy vagina. As levels fall the vaginal mucosa (lining) thins and causes inflammation of the vaginal walls. The number of normal vaginal bacteria decrease which alters the normal acid balance.
Symptoms
- Vaginal dryness
- Pain during sex
- Vaginal itching, burning or irritation
- Frequent or recurring vaginal or urinary infections
- Thrush-like-symptoms
- Lack of bladder control
Causes
There are many causes of vaginal dryness including:
- Lack of oestrogen (e.g. menopause, contraception, post delivery, breast feeding)
- Skin conditions (e.g. lichen sclerosis)
- Chemical irritants (e.g. soaps, detergents)
- Drugs (e.g. Tamoxifen, chemotherapy, antibiotics)
- Infections (e.g. yeasts, bacterial)
The underlying oestrogen deficiency changes can be improved by Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), or with vaginal oestrogen which is effective and safe. Oestrogen vaginal cream, pessaries or rings act locally, and are not usually absorbed in significant amounts into the rest of your body, so they can be safely used for many years and often by women who can’t otherwise take HRT.
Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants can be used alone or along with hormone replacement therapy. Many are readily available over the counter and some can be prescribed. They are available as individual sachets, prefilled applicators or tubes with vaginal inserters.
If you have noticed any skin changes (e.g. pale areas, lumps, bumps, splitting skin, thickened skin or bleeding areas) it is important to seek medical advice.
The difference between vaginal lubricants and moisturisers?
Lubricants
Lubricants provide short-term relief from vaginal dryness, and discomfort during sex. Some products act as both lubricants and moisturisers.
Moisturisers
The main aim is to rehydrate the vaginal mucosa (lining), by adhering and increasing the fluid content within it, recreating it’s natural shape, elasticity and acidic balance.
They do not reverse age-related changes associated with oestrogen deficiency. The effects last longer than lubricants and are used every 3 days.
What are they made from?
Most products are water based, however they can be silicone or plant based. Water and silicone based products do not damage latex condoms, unlike oil based products e.g. Vaseline, baby oil or lotion. Silicone based products can damage silicone sex toys, and shouldn’t be used together. Products differ in their additives, which may include glycerine, parabens, and emollients.
Some products are not suitable for those with shellfish or KIWI allergies - please read the ingredients.
What is the best?
There is a lack of current data to support what product is best, and it is really a personal choice.
There is some evidence to suggest that paraben containing products may mimic oestrogens e.g. KY JellyTM. Therefore those who wish to avoid all hormonal therapies should avoid these options.
Those with specific allergies to plant based products e.g. nuts and KIWI may wish to patch test products or consult the manufacturer prior to use.
How can I get these?
Many products are available over the counter, or can be ordered and purchased through your pharmacist/online. Many companies will post out free samples to try. Some products listed are available on NHS prescriptions. You should discuss this with your gynaecologist or general practitioner.
|
Product |
Description |
Ingredients |
Available on NHS Prescription |
|
Yes Water Based ® |
Water based lubricant & moisturiser |
Paraben Free |
✔ |
|
Sylk ® |
Water based lubricant & moisturiser |
Paraben Free KIWI derived (*care with allergies) |
✔ |
|
Regelle® |
Water based moisturiser |
Paraben Free |
✔
|
|
Hyolofemme®
|
Water based moisturiser
|
Paraben Free Hyaluronic Acid derivative |
✔
|
|
Durex Sensilube®
|
Water based lubricant
|
Contains Parabens |
|
|
Durex Play® |
Water based lubricant
|
Paraben Free |
|
|
Pasante Light Lube® |
Water based lubricant
|
Paraben Free |
Free |
|
Pasante TLC® |
Water & silicone based lubricant |
Paraben Free |
Free |