The vagina naturally produces lubrication that helps facilitate sexual activity. People can also use artificial lubricant, or lube, to make sexual activity more comfortable when needed.
When a person becomes sexually aroused, their vagina produces extra lubrication. This lubrication reduces friction, increasing comfort during sex and minimizing any feelings of soreness or irritation. However, vaginal dryness is common.
Artificial lubricants reduce vaginal dryness. Lubes are available in many different textures, flavors, and materials to suit a person’s needs and preferences.
Fluid from the cervix and secretions from the Bartholin glands — two pea sized glands at the entrance to the vagina — help keep the vagina lubricated. During arousal, the Bartholin glands
Occasional vaginal dryness is common, but chronic vaginal dryness can signal either menopause or a medical condition, such as vaginal atrophy and Sjögren disease.
As a person ages, the tissue of the vagina thins. During and after menopause, the body produces less estrogen, which leads to fewer moisturizing secretions and can make the vagina feel dry.
Once the vaginal tissues become thinner, the individual may need more lubrication than they previously did to feel comfortable during sexual activity.
People who routinely experience vaginal dryness should talk with a healthcare professional.
Artificial lubricant replaces the natural vaginal secretions, reducing any discomfort resulting from vaginal dryness. A person can experience vaginal dryness due to hormonal changes as a result of:
It can also happen if a person uses perfumed soaps, washes, or douches on or around the genitals.
Vaginal dryness can also happen if a person is not aroused during sex. If a person feels pressured into participating in sexual activity or changes their mind, it is important to remember that they can say no at any point.
Lubricants can improve comfort during sex and help prevent irritation or small tears. There are several options to choose from:
- Water-based: These lubricants are safe to use with condoms and sex toys. As this type of lubricant is absorbed into the body, a person may need to reapply as needed.
- Silicone-based: Silicone-based lubricants last longer than water-based lubricants. However, they are not suitable for use with sex toys as they can degrade the material.
- Oil-based: Oil-based lubricants are not suitable for use with latex condoms as they can cause breakage.
Vaginal moisturizers
Vaginal moisturizers are long-acting lubricants that can help with chronic dryness. A person can apply them 1 to 3 times a week.
These products are a good option for people who experience intense vaginal dryness, even when they are not having sex. These moisturizers are safe to use alongside vaginal lubricants.
Estrogen creams
Estrogen based creams can treat vaginal dryness that occurs due to low estrogen levels. These creams work by replacing lost estrogen, potentially reversing some of the effects of menopause and medical conditions that cause low estrogen.
Estrogen creams can work well, but they are not safe for people who do not tolerate estrogen well. It is important to discuss with a doctor the risks and benefits of using estrogen cream.
When using over-the-counter lubricants and moisturizers, people should always follow the directions on the box.
It is best to start with a small amount of the product and then gradually increase the amount until the vagina feels comfortable. Some people find that reapplying the lubricant several times provides the best results.
A person may find it helpful to experiment with several different lubricants, paying attention to how their body responds to each one. If the vagina feels itchy or sore after using one of these products, this could indicate an allergy or sensitivity to an ingredient in the lubricant.
People should only try estrogen-based creams after discussing their use with a healthcare professional. These creams often require a prescription. It is important to follow the directions for use and not exceed the dosage that a healthcare professional recommends.
Commercial lubricants are safe for most people. However, as with any healthcare product, they present some risks, including:
- allergic reactions
- skin irritation
- yeast infections
- interfering with fertility
- drying up quickly, requiring frequent reapplication
When a person has clinical vaginal dryness, artificial lubricants do not treat the underlying problem. They will not increase estrogen or revive thinning vaginal tissue. People may, therefore, find that these products do not fully resolve the issue.
For those who do not get relief from vaginal dryness when they use commercial lubricants, estrogen creams may be a good option. Some other strategies that may help improve lubrication include:
- remaining hydrated
- having sex only when aroused
- spending more time on foreplay
- masturbating before sex
- increasing the frequency of masturbation or sex
Vaginal lubrication can help people have better and more comfortable sexual experiences.
For people with vaginal dryness, the symptoms can be very uncomfortable or frustrating. A healthcare professional can help determine the cause of the dryness and then recommend a suitable solution.
Sex should not be painful, and the vagina should not be a source of discomfort. A person can see a doctor if vaginal dryness persists or does not get better with the use of a commercial lubricant.