Table 1. Vaginal health strategies.
| As a woman ages, or if she has a cancer treatment that results in premature menopause (or hormonal deprivation), the vagina can become dry and lose its elasticity. These issues can also cause dryness and discomfort of the external tissues of the lower genital tract Simple strategies can help improve vulvovaginal moisture and allow movement without discomfort |
| Vaginal moisturizers |
| • Used to hydrate the vaginal tissues and improve vaginal pH |
| • Decreases vaginal dryness and increases vaginal comfort |
| • Can also be applied to the external lower genital tissues to address vulvar dryness and discomfort |
| • Available in gels, tablets, or liquid bead-form |
| • Administered in tampon-shaped applicator or as a vaginal suppository |
| • Not uncommon to use 3-5 times per week after cancer treatment to treat symptoms |
| • Ideal administration is at bedtime for the best absorption |
| • Lasts up to 2-3 days and then must be re-applied |
| • Non-hormonal, over-the-counter products are available [examples: polycarbophil-based gel, hyaluronic-based gel (HyaloGyn), Vitamin E inserts (Carlson KeyE)] |
| Vaginal lubricants |
| • Used to minimize dryness and pain during all sexual activity, any vaginal insertion and with gynecologic exams |
| • Available in gel or liquid form |
| • Applied in the vagina and around the genitals prior to sexual activity and may need to be re-applied during sexual activity |
| • Important to also apply to partner’s genital area, especially before penetration |
| • Water- and silicone-based lubricants are recommended (water-based lubricants wash away more easily) |
| • Avoid petroleum-based lubricants (do not wash away easily and can increase risk of infection) |
| • Use caution with perfumed or flavored lubricants; they may irritate delicate tissues |
| • Common brand names can easily be found in drugstore chains, but online websites and sexual boutiques can offer greater variety |
| • Saliva is a natural lubricant |
Adapted with permission from Carter J, Goldfrank D, Schover LR. Simple strategies for vaginal health promotion in cancer survivors. J Sex Med 2011;8:549-59.