vagin*l Dryness (2024)

Overview

You may have vagin*l dryness around the time of menopause. Or if your ovaries were removed during a hysterectomy (oophorectomy), you may have vagin*l dryness from low estrogen levels.

If sex is painful because of vagin*l dryness, there are steps you can take to make it more comfortable.

• Use a vagin*l lubricant.

  Try using K-Y Jelly, Astroglide, or a polyunsaturated vegetable oil that doesn't contain preservatives. If you use condoms, use a water-based lubricant. Don't use an oil-based lubricant. Oil can weaken the condom so that it breaks. Avoid petroleum jelly (for example, Vaseline) as a lubricant. It increases the risk of vagin*l irritation and infection.

• Use a vagin*l moisturizer.

  Moisturizers such as Replens can be used on a regular basis.

• Use a low-dose vagin*l estrogen cream, ring, or tablet.

  These can reverse vagin*l dryness and irritation. The estrogen affects only the vagin*l area.

  See Also

  What Dermatologists Really Think About Vaseline

Talk with your doctor if you have any problems during intercourse after a hysterectomy. If you have other symptoms of menopause, talk to your doctor about systemic estrogen therapy (ET) and other treatment options.

Credits

Author: Healthwise Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.