LUBRICANTS AND MOISTURISERS FOR THE VAGINA – WHAT ARE THESE?

MOISTURIZER

Just like you might use a moisturiser for your dry skin, you can use a vaginal moisturiser, on your vulva and inside your vagina if you experience vaginal dryness which can happen when you’re breastfeeding or going though menopause. My medications can also make your vagina drier. A moisturizer can help to increase moisture and elasticity in your vagina and vulva. 

Lubricants: 

There are 3 types:

Water-based such as:

• Good Clean Love, Pjur, Yes, Sliquid H2O, Slippery stuff, Floravi
  • Avoid the ones that include these ingredients: Parabenes, Propylene glycol or Propanediol, Glycerin, Antiseptics (e.g.: nonoxynol-9, chlorexhydine, polyquaternium-15), perfumes, artificial flavors, essential oils

Silicon-based such as: 

• Uberlube, Pjur Sliquid Silk, Durex, Silver, Floravi
  • Do not use if you are using sexual toys made of silicon or a pessary as it can break down the silicon and ruin the toy/pessary 

Oil-based such as: 

• Yes, Coconut oil, Olive oil  
  • Do not use if you are using a condom 

You might have to try a few brands before you find one that you enjoy

If you are trying to become pregnant:

• Avoid lubricants that contain glycol or glycerin
  • Only use water-based lubricants

Moisturizers:

 Can be used in combination with a lubricant. Depending on the brand, you apply it daily or a couple of times a week, ideally at night before you go to bed. Follow the instructions in the package.

• Brands such as:
  • Gynatrof, Replens, Zestica, Good Clean Love

Where to buy:

• In pharmacies
• Online
• In sex shops

Have any questions?

If you have any questions or need some advice, ask your doctor or nurse to be seen by a physiotherapist who has advanced training in pelvic health problems.  There might be one in your community. Or you can contact the pelvic health team directly on 18tcr.pt.referrals@ssss.gouv.qc.ca