A friendly guide to keeping things comfortable ‘down there’.
Let’s face it, vaginal dryness is not exactly the sort of thing we chat about over coffee. But for many women navigating perimenopause and menopause, it becomes a daily (and nightly) reality. The problem is, no one really explains what to do about it, or even what all the options are. Moisturiser? Lube? Both? Is it the same thing?
Not quite. And being clear on the difference can make a big difference to your comfort, confidence, and quality of life. So whether you are sitting through a long meeting or having a more intimate moment, we hope you find our latest blog helpful. No embarrassment – just the facts, with a touch of friendly honesty.
Menopause and the vagina
When oestrogen levels begin to decline during perimenopause and into menopause, the tissues of the vagina and vulva can become thinner, drier, and more delicate. This can lead to a condition known as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) which is essentially a fancy way of saying our vaginas get dry, irritated, and a little bit grumpy.
Symptoms can include:
– Vaginal dryness or tightness
– Itching or irritation
– Pain during sex
– Burning sensation (even without infection)
– Increased UTIs or discomfort when peeing
None of this means there is anything wrong with you. It just means your body is asking for a bit of help.
What is the difference between a vaginal moisturiser and a lubricant?
Think of it this way – moisturisers are for maintenance and lubricants are for moments.
Vaginal moisturiser is skincare for your vagina
Just like you moisturise your face to keep your skin supple and healthy, vaginal moisturisers are designed to nourish and hydrate the vaginal tissue on a regular basis. They can be used several times a week and work by helping the tissues retain moisture over time.
You don’t need to use them daily (unless advised), but regular application (every 2 to 3 days) can make a difference in your overall comfort. Vaginal moisturiser is about tissue health and by using it on a regular basis, you may notice less itching, less irritation, and better resilience in the skin.
Vaginal lubricant gives instant glide for intimate times
Lubricants, on the other hand, are designed for immediate relief from friction. Not just during sex, but also for things like inserting a tampon, pelvic exams, or using a vaginal pessary. They are applied right before or during the activity to reduce discomfort and make things smoother.
They do not provide long-term hydration as they are more like a topical fix than an ongoing treatment.
When should you use a vaginal moisturiser?
If you experience general dryness on a day-to-day basis, a vaginal moisturiser can offer relief and improve overall comfort. Some women also notice feelings of itchiness, soreness, or irritation, even when they are not sexually active and that is another sign that regular hydration of the vaginal tissue may be beneficial.
Pain during sex or internal exams can also stem from a lack of elasticity and moisture, making these everyday situations uncomfortable or even distressing. Additionally, some women find they become more prone to urinary tract irritation as dryness increases.
When should you use a lubricant?
Lubricants are your trusty ‘in the moment’ friend, offering instant relief when you need it most. If sex feels uncomfortable or painful, a lubricant can help reduce friction and ease discomfort. A lubricant is also helpful any time you are inserting something vaginally – whether that is a tampon, pessary, or medication. Even if you already use a vaginal moisturiser, you might still benefit from a bit of extra glide during intimacy. While lubricants do not treat dryness long-term, they can make a difference in ensuring those moments are more comfortable and enjoyable.
Should you use a vaginal moisturiser and a lubricant?
The short answer here is yes, quite possibly!
Using a moisturiser regularly and a lubricant as needed is a helpful combination for many women, especially during perimenopause and menopause. Think of it like using both body lotion and shaving gel – one maintains skin health, and the other helps during specific activities.
You wouldn’t moisturise your legs and expect that to work as shaving cream, vaginal moisturiser and lubricant is the same idea.
YES! and Dr. Wolff
When it comes to products for intimate health, quality matters. You want something that is gentle, and effective.
YES!
The YES! brand is beloved for a reason. Their moisturisers and lubricants are certified organic, pH-balanced, and free from hormones, parabens, or glycerin. This is important because some products can actually worsen dryness or cause irritation.
They make both water-based and oil-based options, and their YES! vaginal moisturiser is especially good for regular use. It mimics your body’s natural moisture and is safe enough for long-term use. Their lubricants are also top quality and come in handy, discreet packaging.
Dr. Wolff’s V-san Moisturising Cream
Another excellent option is Dr. Wolff’s V-san Moisturising Cream, which offers a cream-based moisturiser that includes lactic acid to maintain vaginal pH which is a key factor in keeping the vaginal microbiome healthy. It is hormone-free, soothing, and often recommended by healthcare professionals.
The cream texture feels rich but not greasy, and it can be used internally (with an applicator) or externally. Some women find it particularly helpful during menopause when the tissue feels more fragile.
Do not be embarrassed
Vaginal moisturiser and lubricant is all about comfort and there is absolutely no reason to feel awkward about using them. If anything, it’s a sign of proactive self-care. You wouldn’t hesitate to use eye drops if your eyes were dry or extra hand cream in the winter and this is exactly the same.
The only difference is we can sometimes be a little embarrassed to talk about it. But the truth is, a lot of women experience vaginal dryness – you are not the only one!
If you are experiencing symptoms, don’t suffer in silence. Whether you pick up a brand like YES! or Dr. Wolff’s Vagisan, or speak with your GP about your options, the important thing is to take that first step.
Looking after your intimate health isn’t embarrassing – it is empowering.
If you would like to find out how The Female Health Clinic can support you with perimenopause or menopause symptoms, please get in touch for an initial call with one of our friendly team members.
