In addition to menopause, cancer treatment, prescription medications, and numerous other reasons, many women experience vaginal dryness as a symptom of certain medications, diabetes, and cancer treatment, as well as other health reasons (NIH). Fortunately, there are options available for providing comfort when it comes to the lack of moisture: vaginal lubricants and vaginal moisturizers.
Whether you are experiencing painful intercourse or continued discomfort and daily dryness, you will want to consider trying either a natural lubricant and/or a natural vaginal moisturizer.
The real difference between a lubricant and a moisturizer is longevity and extra “perks” for your skin.
Lubricants are used directly before sexual intercourse to coat the genital areas with slippery lubrication which will ease penetration and alleviate friction. They are meant to enhance intimacy, help to relieve discomfort, and provide a benefit at the time of use when additional comfort during sex or masturbation is necessary (EI).
Excellent brands of high-quality, naturally made lubrications available in water-based or silicone varieties are:
- Sliquid
- Wicked
- System Jo
Vaginal Moisturizers are options for women who experience ongoing discomfort due to vaginal dryness (NIH). They are designed to be longer lasting by clinging to the vaginal walls, and absorbing into the cells, so they are effective for several days. This is helpful to maintain and restore the water content in the vagina, especially if the individual is facing vaginal atrophy. Generally, moisturizers are applied every 2-3 days, though can be applied regularly each day depending on personal comfort and need, as there are no chemicals or hormones in many natural options.
Some of the best, highest-quality vaginal moisturizers are:
- Sliquid Naturals Satin
- Medicine Mama Vmagic Vulva Balm
- Seeq Wellness Organic Vulva Balm
If you are interested in more information about these lubrications or moisturizers, please visit our Product Review & Recommendations page on our website for details, info, and links to where they can be found for purchase.
Citations:
Empowering Intimacy
Sliquid
System Jo
National Institute of Health and Human Services