Moisturizers, Lubricants, and Vulvar Hygiene Products: Issues, Answers, and Clinical Implications

November 2016 in “ Current sexual health reports ”

J D Patterson, L. Millheiser, Michael Krychman

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause GSM vulvovaginal atrophy VVA hormonal changes moisturizers lubricants vulvar washes hormonal treatments

TLDR Over-the-counter products can help with menopause symptoms, but be aware of their ingredients.

The document discussed Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), which included vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) and affected over half of postmenopausal women. GSM symptoms, such as irritation, pain, burning, and itchiness, could be caused by various factors including hormonal changes, medications, and certain illnesses. Despite the recommendation of hormonal treatments, many women preferred over-the-counter products like moisturizers, lubricants, and vulvar washes. The review aimed to clarify the characteristics of these products and address misconceptions about their chemical additives. It emphasized that the mention of specific product names was not an endorsement.

View this study on link.springer.com →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Similar Research

5 / 279 results

research The North American Menopause Society Recommendations for Clinical Care of Midlife Women

254 citations, September 2014 in “Menopause”

The NAMS 2014 recommendations guide healthcare providers on treating health issues in midlife women, emphasizing individualized care and informed decision-making.

research Sexuality in Premature Ovarian Insufficiency

32 citations, March 2019 in “Climacteric”

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) can harm women's sexual health, and they may benefit from hormone therapy and counseling.

research Intravaginal Testosterone Improves Sexual Satisfaction and Vaginal Symptoms Associated With Aromatase Inhibitors

37 citations, September 2018 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism”

Intravaginal testosterone cream improves sexual satisfaction and reduces vaginal discomfort in postmenopausal women on breast cancer treatment without affecting hormone levels.

research Histological and Gene Expression Analysis of the Effects of Menopause Status and Hormone Therapy on the Vaginal Introitus and Labia Majora

7 citations, January 2019 in “Journal of clinical medicine research”

Menopause causes significant changes in the vaginal introitus, but less so in the labia majora, which may lead to symptoms of vaginal atrophy.

research American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery 2019 Late Breaking Abstracts

1 citations, March 2019 in “Lasers in Surgery and Medicine”

The conference reported improvements in muscle volume, skin cancer diagnosis, facial and vaginal rejuvenation, and hair growth using various laser treatments.