Vaginal dryness (SPARC)

When aroused, the vagina usually produces natural fluid which helps you to enjoy sex. Without this, sex can feel uncomfortable or painful.

Vaginal dryness is a common problem that many women have at some point in their lives and can be due to some cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormonal therapy or surgery. Other causes of vaginal dryness include:

• Menopause
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Certain medicines such as hormonal contraceptives or antidepressants
• Having your womb removed (a hysterectomy)

If you are not aroused during sex:

• Use of perfumed soaps, washes or douches in and around your vagina
• Having an underlying condition, such as diabetes

Symptoms of vaginal dryness may include if you:

• have unusual vaginal discharge, spotting or bleeding
• feel sore or itchy in and around your vagina
• feel pain or discomfort, including during sex
• need to pee more often than usual
• keep getting urinary tract infections (UTIs)

If you think you have vaginal dryness it is important to try to seek help for this. You can consider:

• Lubricants – a gel or liquid you apply before or during sex to make the vagina wetter.
• Vaginal moisturisers – a cream you apply regularly, for long term use which works by drawing moisture into the tissues of the vagina and vulva.
• Vaginal oestrogen – a cream, small pellet (pessary) or ring that releases the hormone oestrogen into the vagina if you have had the menopause. This is not suitable for everyone or after some types of cancer. Your cancer team can tell you whether this is right for you.

Your GP or cancer team can prescribe these products. You can also buy lubricants and moisturisers from a shop, pharmacy or online.

The following website provides some information about lubricants and moisturises and what ingredients to be aware of: Love Your Vulva and Vagina – Menopause and Cancer with Dani Binnington

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be helpful if you are experiencing menopause symptoms but is not suitable for everyone or after some types of cancer. Your cancer team can tell you whether this is right for you.

Always check the instructions on lubricants or products, as some may damage latex condoms and make them less effective. If you are not sure, ask your GP, cancer team or pharmacist for advice.

For more information:

Vaginal changes and sexual well-being with cancer | Macmillan Cancer Support

The UK’s LGBTIQ+ Cancer Charity: Sex and cancer information hub Sex and Cancer – Outpatients

Untold Pleasure | Podcast on Spotify