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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    What can help with vaginal dryness?

    Related Topics
    Menopause Relationships Women's Health
    I have already had one stroke, so I am not prepared to take HRT, but I need to find something that will fix the vaginal dryness. Not something short term, that I have to insert the night before 'in preparation“, but, something that enables me to lubricate ”naturally"

    I have read that topical oxytocin helps to resolve vaginal atrophy, but this is not available in Australia, so far as I know, what are your thoughts on this, and how can I obtain it?
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    Jacqueline Hellyer

    Sex Therapist

    Hello, I’m Jacqueline Hellyer, Sex Therapist and Relationship Coach. I’ve spent thousands of hours working with individuals and couples around sex and relationships. I’ve been … View Profile

    Try taking fish oil orally. I don't know of any clinical studies, but anecdotally I've heard good things about it. There's an interesting book on diet and female sexual desire and response called “The Orgasm Diet” by Marrena Lindburg, could be worth a try (it's worked for clients of mine).

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    Dr Margaret Redelman

    GP (General Practitioner)

    I come from a general practice background and have over 30 years experience in sexual health. I am an accredited Clinical Psychosexual Therapist with the … View Profile

    One of the most important natural ways to maintain vaginal health is regularity of vaginal activity. Often with menopausal changes and medical events there is a decrease in sexual activity which negatively affects vaginal health. The sensitive question becomes “what is meant by regular?” I would answer “at least weekly”. With menopausal changes it often takes longer to lubricate and increasing the time to penetration while receiving adequate stimulation may be helpful. Saliva can be a very good natural lubricant.

    You say you have had a stroke. Are you on diuretics? Maybe timing of diuretic medication could help prevent dryness. Are you on any other medication that has ‘dryness’ as a side effect? Ask your GP.

    Lastly, our knowledge and the options we have available are not perfect. Often a compromise has to be made balancing what is available ( pluses and minuses) against what we want.

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    Dr Margaret Redelman

    GP (General Practitioner)

    I come from a general practice background and have over 30 years experience in sexual health. I am an accredited Clinical Psychosexual Therapist with the … View Profile

    Hello again,

    On re-reading other's answers I realised that other simple possibilities have not been mentioned - Replens, which can be used twice a week as a vaginal insert unrelated to sexual activity, is a vaginal moisturizer. I also like Macadamia oil as a lubricant /moisturizer as it is soothing, healing and tastes and smels nice.

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  • Catherine Glover

    Hypnotherapist, Psychotherapist

    My name is Catherine and I am a Clinical Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist. I am the owner and principal practitioner of Eternal Balance Mind and Body … View Profile

    Thank you for sharing your concerns—it’s understandable that you’re seeking a natural, long-term solution for vaginal dryness, especially given your health history. I appreciate the other suggestions, and I’d like to add another option that might suit your needs.

    First, it’s worth reiterating that regular vaginal activity, as someone else mentioned, can help maintain tissue health. This doesn’t have to involve a partner—pelvic exercises, gentle stimulation, or even products like vaginal dilators can promote circulation and elasticity over time.

    For a topical solution, I recommend trying a natural oil-based product that doubles as a moisturiser and lubricant. Enhance Her Pleasure Oil is a fantastic option that could meet your needs. It’s specifically formulated with natural ingredients like calendula and chasteberry, which are known for their soothing and hydrating properties. Unlike products like Replens, Enhance Her doesn’t require pre-application the night before—it can be used whenever dryness becomes uncomfortable, offering immediate relief and long-term hydration. It’s also safe for everyday use and free from synthetic chemicals, which is a plus for sensitive skin. You can learn more about it here.

    Regarding oxytocin, while it shows promise in research for addressing vaginal atrophy, its availability in Australia is limited. Discussing this with a menopause specialist or your GP might uncover alternative therapies or compounded prescriptions.

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