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If you’re navigating perimenopause or menopause, odds are you’ll encounter vaginal dryness at some point. Declining estrogen levels can cause a decrease in lubrication and a thinning of vaginal tissues, which can lead to discomfort and pain during sex, in addition to making the area more prone to infection.
The upside is that there are a range of treatments to help, from prescription hormonal solutions to over-the-counter lubricants and moisturizers.
The options for moisturizing this sensitive area seem endless, and social media is filled with ideas of solutions that claim to help. But what’s truly safe and effective? Here’s what experts have to say about what you should — and should not — use to keep things comfortable down there.
What causes vaginal dryness?
Although vaginal dryness can occur at any age, it’s most common in women during or after menopause. As women age, changes in hormone production can cause the vaginal walls to thin. Thinner walls mean fewer cells that secrete moisture, resulting in a drier vaginal environment.
This can lead to discomfort, irritation, and even pain during sex. Additionally, decreased moisture levels can impact the vagina’s natural pH balance, potentially increasing the risk of infections such as BV or a yeast infection. That’s why maintaining vaginal moisture is crucial for overall comfort.
“Vaginal dryness can have significant impacts on a person’s overall health and well-being, affecting physical comfort, emotional health, sexual satisfaction, and quality of life,” Dr. Jillian Lopiano, chief health officer and OB-GYN at Wisp, a telehealth company focused on sexual and reproductive health, tells Flow Space. “I like the emphasis on physical comfort and not JUST sex. This can be bothersome and painful whether or not you are having sex, and that is an important point for non-sexually active women who want evaluation and treatment.”
Menopause isn’t the only condition that can cause a decrease in estrogen levels. Cigarette smoking, immune system disorders, rigorous exercise, cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, and surgical removal of the ovaries can all cause vaginal dryness. While there is a plethora of products on the market that promise to treat vaginal dryness, how do you know which one to choose from?
What types of products are safe to use?
“There is a wide variety of vaginal moisturizers on the market – the biggest difference seen is the type of base the moisturizer uses,” Dr. Lopiano says. “These can range from water, oil, or silicone based moisturizers. Hyaluronic acid is a frequently used component for non-hormonal moisturizers, and can provide lasting hydration to vaginal tissues.”
Although Hyaluronic acid is trendy at the moment, Dr. Lopiano says it’s important to always consult your medical doctor before trying a new treatment. She advises against products containing fragrance, dyes, parabens, or glycerin.
In certain cases, healthcare providers may prescribe estrogen therapy, available in forms such as pills, creams, or rings, each delivering the hormone differently. Topical creams and rings provide estrogen directly to the tissues, while a pills or a transdermal patch are often preferred when other menopausal symptoms like hot flashes are present.
Research also suggests that coconut oil, a widely-touted remedy for vaginal dryness, serves as an effective moisturizer for different body areas. However, its specific benefits for vaginal use remain understudied and warrant further research. What’s more, it’s crucial to note that coconut oil should not be used with latex condoms, as it can degrade the latex, making the condom ineffective.
While vaginal dryness is treatable with most over-the-counter products, if symptoms persist or if discomfort occurs during sexual intercourse, Dr. Lapiano urges individuals to seek medical attention. If left untreated, vaginal dryness may lead to sores or fissures in the delicate tissues of the vagina.
Are there any side effects with vaginal moisturizers?
While side effects from using vaginal moisturizers are typically rare and mild, they can arise if someone is unaware of how the ingredients will affect them.
“Each person is different, and has different sensitivities and reactions,” Dr. Lopiano says. “It’s pertinent to be aware of these to make informed choices and seek appropriate medical advice if needed.” Common side effects from vaginal moisturizers can include, allergic reactions, skin irritation, and yeast infections.
Dr. Lapiano emphasizes that artificial lubricants primarily alleviate symptoms without addressing the underlying cause. They do not stimulate estrogen production or promote the rejuvenation of thinning vaginal tissue, leaving the root issue unattended. They only offer partial relief from their discomfort.
Prior to using vaginal moisturizers, Dr. Lopiano advises consulting your doctor for guidance. She recommends washing your hands before application and carefully following the instructions on the label, as they may vary significantly for internal versus external use. She also suggests using the product only as directed and be mindful of its ingredients, especially regarding their potential impact on barrier contraception or other concurrent products you may be using.