Vaginal dryness is a common condition that can affect women of all ages, not just those going through menopause. It can cause itching, burning, and pain during intercourse, but it can often be easily relieved with simple measures.
Causes of vaginal dryness
According to the NHS, the main conditions that can cause vaginal dryness are:
- Menopause and perimenopause
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Hormonal contraception and some antidepressants
- Hysterectomy or oophorectomy, cancer treatments
- Insufficient arousal during sexual intercourse
- Perfumed soaps, douching, and scented cleansers
- Conditions such as diabetes and Sjögren's syndrome
What you can do at home
- Use a water-based lubricant before intercourse (it can be applied to the vagina, your partner's penis, or a sex toy).
- Choose a vaginal moisturiser for regular use.
- Use unscented cleansers in the genital area.
- Allow more time for foreplay.
Types of lubricants: Which one is right for you?
Water-based
- Compatible with all types of condoms and all sex toys.
- Easy to clean and leaves no stains.
- May dry out more quickly; can be reapplied if necessary.
Silicone-based
- Stays slippery for a long time and is also effective in water.
- Compatible with latex condoms.
- Should not be used with silicone sex toys, as it can damage their surfaces.
- Generally well tolerated by sensitive skin.
Oil-based
- Weakens latex condoms and increases the risk of breakage. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasises that petroleum jelly, baby oil, body lotion, and cooking oils should not be used with latex condoms.
What to look for when reading the label?
- Condom compatibility: Look for the statement "Compatible with latex condoms".
- Osmolality: The WHO recommends that water-based lubricants have low osmolality and do not exceed 1200 mOsm/kg to avoid irritating the vaginal tissue. Although this value is not listed on most packaging, products with high levels of glycerine may have higher osmolality.
- Fragrance-free and colourless formulas are more suitable for sensitive skin. Flavoured lubricants are generally designed for oral use.
- If you are planning to become pregnant, remember that some lubricants may negatively affect sperm movement; choose "sperm-friendly" products.
You can browse our lubricant collection for all options.
When to see a doctor?
- If dryness has lasted for several weeks and the remedies you have tried at home are not working
- If it is affecting your daily life
- If you have unusual discharge
- If you have bleeding after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause
For dryness caused by hormones, your doctor may recommend an oestrogen-containing cream, tablet, or ring.
Sources
- NHS. Vaginal dryness. nhs.uk
- WHO, UNFPA, FHI360. Use and procurement of additional lubricants for male and female condoms: Advisory note. 2012.
- BC Medical Journal. What is the best lubricant? (Premise). 2024;66(9):347.
This content is for general information purposes only; it is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment.
