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	NONHORMONAL INTERVENTIONS FOR VAGINAL DRYNESS

Agent	Route	Comments
K-Y Jelly*	Topical	Water-soluble lubricant that helps provide symptomatic relief of vaginal dryness
Astroglide*	Topical	Water-soluble lubricant that helps provide symptomatic relief of vagina dryness
Lubrin*	Vaginal suppository	Insert at least 5 minutes before intercourse
Vitamin E oil (sesame, almond, or coconut also)	Topical	Helps to hydrate the vaginal membrane. Apply once or twice a week or as needed.  May use as a lubricant for intercourse. Apply liberally to female or male organs.
Replens*	Intra-vaginal	Hydrates the vaginal tissue for 2-3 days after a single application. Adheres to the vaginal mucosa and creates a muco-adhesive barrier that protects the vaginal membrane. May help to lower the vagina pH.
Plain live-culture yogurt	Intra-vaginal	Use a few tablespoons of plain live-culture yogurt either added to warm douche water or inserted directly into the vagina. Helps to lower the vaginal pH.
Live-culture yogurt	Oral	If eaten on a consistent basis, may help to maintain vaginal pH. May eat any flavor.
Acidophilus tablets	Oral	Dose: 460 mg. per day. Helps to maintain vaginal pH.
Zinc	Oral	Dose: 15 mg. per day. Thought to revive vaginal tissue.
*Temporary relief Extended relief

Hormonal Interventions for Vaginal Dryness

• Vaginal Estrogen has been found to restore the normal PH of the vagina which promotes an increase in the lactobacilli (good bacteria). Dryness, itching, burning, and urinary frequency and urgency will all improve. Creams, rings, vaginal pills, and suppositories are available. Estriol, a weak estrogen , may be safe for women who do not wish to use other estrogen products.

• Regular sexual activity also keeps the vaginal tissue supple.

• Certain conditions such as Lichen Sclerosis, Lichen Planus, psorrhiasis, strep vaginal infections, chronic yeast, or bacterial vaginosis require careful exam and other treatments.  Do not use the above if you have not been examined by your physician.