Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants

Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants can relieve symptoms of vaginal dryness. They have different uses and are safe to use long term. You can use vaginal moisturisers and lubricants together.

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Vaginal lubricants

A vaginal lubricant is used for sexual activity. It provides short-acting moisture to your vagina to make intimacy more pleasurable.

There are 3 types of vaginal lubricants:

  • water-based
  • silicone-based
  • oil-based.

You can buy them online or at a pharmacy or supermarket. You cannot get them on prescription.

How to use vaginal lubricants

You can apply the lubricant:

  • in and around your vagina
  • on your partner's penis
  • on your partner's fingers
  • on a sex toy if you are using one.

Do not use oil-based lubricants with condoms as they can cause the condom to break or fail. You can use water and silicone-based lubricants with condoms.

Water-based lubricants dry up more quickly than silicone or oil-based products. If a water-based lubricant dries up, you can add a little water or saliva to make it slippery again.

Vaginal moisturisers

A vaginal moisturiser lasts longer than a lubricant and is better at replacing moisture. Like a moisturiser you have for your face, this is a moisturiser for your vagina. You do not need to be sexually active to use a vaginal moisturiser. You can use it at any time.

You can buy vaginal moisturisers online or at a pharmacy. You cannot get them on prescription. Vaginal moisturisers do not contain hormones.

How to use vaginal moisturisers

You apply some products with your fingers. Others come with an internal applicator that you insert into your vagina. Sometimes, some of the product can leak after you have applied it. This is normal.

Always check the product label as some vaginal moisturisers can cause certain types of condoms to fail.

You can also try using a natural oil in and around your vagina such as:

  • sweet almond oil
  • olive oil
  • coconut oil.

Keep in mind that natural oils, like oil-based lubricants can cause condoms to fail. They can also be messy to use and may stain clothing, underwear and bedding.

Do not use petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or another moisturiser such as a face or body cream as a vaginal moisturiser. They can make your irritation worse or cause an infection.

Irritation from lubricants or moisturisers

Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants can irritate some people. Coloured, flavoured or warming lubricants can be irritating. If you experience irritation, try to avoid ingredients that can cause irritation such as:

  • chlorhexidine
  • glycerin (also called glycerine)
  • propylene glycol.