The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Slippery Elm
Posted by Kristine (OH) on 08/29/2024
★★★★☆
When I started suffering from vaginal atrophy I experimented with coconut oil (specifically coconut oil suppositories) and thought that would eventually take care of it for good, I was wrong. The suppositories do help immensely but after taking 1600mg of Slippery Elm daily I am almost back to my pre-menopause self. There is still some dryness up there but not at the level I was at before taking the Slippery Elm. I take 1600mg of Slippery Elm daily and use the coconut oil suppositories before sex.
Coconut Oil Suppositories
Posted by Kristine (Ohio) on 08/29/2024
M, I only use coconut oil that is the least processed and I only use organic coconut oil. I don't know if I'm allowed to put name brands out there and, to be honest, I don't always buy the same brand. But I do always buy unrefined, cold-pressed, and organic. I have also now added 1600 mg of Slippery Elm to my vitamins/minerals/herbs that I take daily to help with the same problem. Sorry I am responding so late to your question.
Evening Primrose Oil
Posted by Faith (Nigeria ) on 08/19/2024
How long do you insert it and how many mg? Also how old was your vagina atrophy please?
DHEA
Posted by MARIA (SPAIN) on 08/18/2024
The information you give is completely wrong... DHEA vaginally is not absorbed ONLY in the local tissue... it is absorbed throughout the body, just like vaginal progesterone or vaginal bioidentical estrogen, I affirm it because I use the three bioidentical hormones periodically and I do periodic hormonal control tests. Be careful with the information we give to others
DHEA
Posted by J. J. (Washington, DC) on 05/30/2024
Did you find a migraine-free alternative? I'm having terrible migraines from an estradiol product and hoping you found something I could look into other than DHEA.
DHEA v. Estradiol Cream
Posted by M (New York) on 03/10/2024
Hi Everyone, I'm honestly confused. I see a lot of posts here about DHEA, but is it a natural remedy? My doctor prescribed Estradiol Cream and told me that it is the best choice in treating VA. He also said that the medicine doesn't get absorbed into the bloodstream. I read the same in these threads about DHEA. So is DHEA a real alternative? Is it healthier? How? And what dosage would it be comparable to the Estradiol cream 1%? Do we know how to compare it? I'm a bit reluctant to ask my doctor lol but I will..
I also saw a post about the use of a coconut oil alone and I'm very intrigued by that. That is a 100% healthy solution... if it works. Did anyone else try it? The person who recommended it to me had similar issues (dry, itchy) after giving birth but I think it's probably a bit different from VA.
I appreciate the opportunity to share here and support each other.
Coconut Oil Suppositories
Posted by M (New York) on 03/10/2024
Hi Kristine, I just ordered the suppositories and lots of different coconut oil. I bought NOW Solutions, Liquid Coconut Oil on Amazon. It was highly recommended by someone who used it for the same purpose. I also got (just in case) 365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic Refined Coconut Oil on Amazon. I'm not sure myself what the difference is between cold-pressed or expeller-pressed, refined or unrefined but the above is what I was recommended. I also do have cold-pressed unrefined at home... They are all very inexpensive.
I guess, I was just wondering if you were recommended to get the cold-pressed unrefined or refined? Did you try any other type of coconut oil as I described? Are you still happy with the results?
Coconut Oil Suppositories
Posted by Kristine (OH) on 02/06/2024
★★★★★
I have been dealing with vaginal atrophy for a few years. It started with menopause and has continued into my postmenopausal phase. I have now helped the problem with nightly coconut oil suppositories. I make my own using nothing but cold pressed, organic coconut oil. At first I wasn't getting complete relief so I decided to make the suppositories larger and this is all that was needed. I don't add anything else to the suppositories. After I make them I keep them stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container. I place one in the vagina, as far as it will go, right before getting into bed for the night. It will melt after a few minutes and will slowly leak out (I put a small, folded washcloth in my underwear, like a pad to absorb the melted oil) but it nonetheless gets rid of the burning sensation from the atrophy. I have been doing this for two weeks and it is inexpensive and effective. Immediate results after the first night.
DHEA
Posted by WT (Asheville, NC) on 01/30/2022
Susie, this may be a late reply to your post. I am also bipolar II. I have not had any negative mood swings in response to topical vaginal use of DHAE, beginning at 6.5 mg two times per week. I am just beginning to drop my dose, though, as have started having mini hot flashes in the evening, so I feel my tissues are now saturated. I'm going to cut my inserts in half. It's important to work with your mental health provider on this issue I would think.
DHEA
Posted by Anne (London) on 02/15/2021
★★★★★
Thank you so much for writing out the solution in detail. I was able to get hold of DHEA (post via a reputable supplier) with the Carlson suppositories. Took about 2 weeks of daily use before I felt improvement, and I'm very happy to report, it works! I still have to use it as I haven't yet reached ‘saturation', as some here have, in order to cut back to 3 or 4 times a week. I tested it out, stopped for a day, and the dryness returned in 24 hours. I will probably have to continue daily use for a full month and test again. God bless.
Royal Jelly
Posted by Houdini (Chicago, Il) on 01/26/2021
★★★★★
Anyone have any experience with topical royal jelly for vaginal atrophy? There was a study that it worked as well as topical estrogen. Would like to make diy. Have tried EVERYTHING.
DHEA
Posted by ORH (TEN MILE, TN) on 07/03/2019
BETHBS, I resume you are familiar with Bio Identical Hormone Modulation. My Tractor Driver has been into it since the onset of menopause some 20 + years ago. At that time novice doctors were in the mix and they controlled you by how you felt. There were no tests done. So it was the blind leading the blind. Soon I found an Anti- Aging Doctor who knew which way was up. She ran tests. If you don't know, DHEA is the Granddaddy of all your hormones. Your body makes it, so your post is lacking. Mayo was where I got my annual physicals and I was not overly impressed. My wife and I both take DHEA daily according to our semi-annual blood work. Both sexes have Testosterone and Esteridol, just in different amounts. Suggest you find the right doctor and start over. Your migraines were telling you something about your hormone situation. That should be your concern. Reading this may help you.
https://www.webmd.com/diet/dhea-supplements#1
====ORH====
DHEA
Posted by Bethbs (London) on 07/02/2019
Warning!
DHEA for vaginal atrophy: Several ladies have posted that when applied vaginally DHEA does not get into the bloodstream and acts only on local tissue.. 2.5 mg mixed with coconut oil triggered migraine consistently after 2 days' use. I infer from this that it does indeed get into the bloodstream. So beware, ladies, as whatever the benefits, the possible side effects listed on sites such as the respected Mayo Clinic can be serious and include hormone sensitive cancers.
DHEA
Posted by Niamh (Portugal ) on 06/28/2020
★★★★★
I do that! I just made my own cream using cocoa butter and coconut oil with DHEA. It helps with vulval atrophy. Also I haven't got thrush since I started using the cream. I have a super sensitive spot that tends to get infected and the cream is great. I also use 5mg suppositories about 10 times a month now. For the initial phase I used 3.5mg nightly for 3 weeks. I'm on a maintenance dose now.
DHEA
Posted by Darlene (El Paso Tx) on 12/21/2018
Hi Allyd! I know my comment is coming to you almost a year after you posted but I've just found this thread and am so happy I did. I'm just curious to ask why you decided to start taking DHEA in perimenopause. I just ordered some DHEA micronized caps and after looking at all these comments, they appear to be from women post-menopause. My main symptom at this point is a constant burning sensation that I'm hoping will go away once I start the DHEA capsules. I also feel "thinner" down there already and I'm just 44! I'm hoping being proactive and starting now will help things before they get really bad. How long were you taking them in perimenopause before moving to the larger dose?
DHEA Suppositories
Posted by Darlene (El Paso, Tx) on 12/21/2018
Hi Susan: I just received my micronized tablets from Amazon as well, and will start on them tomorrow. Just a quick question for you which may have been answered earlier in this thread - did you go on a maintenance dose after a certain point, or just continue with the 5 mg? What benefits did you see by applying externally as well as just inserting vaginally? I'm so happy to have found this thread.
DHEA Suppositories
Posted by Susan (Ma) on 08/06/2018
Amazon has 5 micronized tabs that just melt in place. I have been using for 2 years and no side effects. I insert in the A.M. no cream necessary. Also have found that by crushing up into a fine powder can put a small amount on vulva for added relief. All that I have read indicates that there is no adsorption into the blood when used topically, so you are not adding to your hormone balance or imbalance.
DHEA
Posted by Carol (Arizona) on 08/01/2018
Mar from Mexico - I have been using a natural sleep aid called Melatonin, ... in tablets or sublingual drops for insomnia. I only use 3-4 drops under my tongue at bedtime. if you use the tablets, I found the dosage harder to control & had to experiment more to figure out what I needed 5 or 10 mg. Available Over the counter. not a prescription. It's been around for years. easily available in health food store, natural products, sleep aids, also available online from amazon & ebay.
DHEA
Posted by Charlene (New York) on 06/22/2018
@Susan from Canada and anyone else suffering,
Hi, I read your comment about vaginal atrophy caused by chemotherapy and I too have had this experience. I am a 2 year cancer (nonhodgkins lymphoma survivor, thriver) and had 6 months of chemotherapy which put me right into menopause; no more period, some occasional hot flashes but the worst is the extreme vaginal dryness. I've tried so many holistic treatments; coconut oil, vitamin e suppositories, replens, organic aloe vera gel, nu-eve suppositories and I've even had 4 Mona Lisa laser rejuvenation procedures but still am suffering. I recently discovered the DHEA cubes after much time researching and just ordered some. I haven't started using them yet because I'm still a bit apprehensive due to the overall safety since having the cancer. This is all so very hard. I am trying to trust God to help me make the right decisions.
Any input, comments and advice from anyone would be much appreciated.
@Susan from Canada, I hope that things have improved for you.
DHEA
Posted by Sharon (London) on 05/26/2018
Hi Sandra
Thanks so much for your detailed information. I've order what I need and hope to start this in the next week. This conversation was start in 2016 and wonder how you've been going with it since then? Cheers, Sharon
DHEA
Posted by Kathleen (Ca) on 05/13/2018
★★★★★
Thank you everyone for this great thread. I am having great (and quick! ) success with the 2.5mg DHEA pill and suppository combo. I'm looking forward to sharing my results with my doctor.
DHEA
Posted by Sharon (New Hampshire) on 05/04/2018
I am excited to try this..In fact, I got so excited that I may have actually booboo myself further. I had intimate relations on sunday and it was painful and left me with a VERY sore vagina in and out. I had used coconut oil before bed with some estrodial cream that I purchased from compounding phar, morn time was no better and actually felt worse:( So I thought maybe it would just get better if I tried to add some DHEA to my estrodial cream. Well I am in so much pain now feels and itching to boot. So, I noticed some of you suggested micronized type and have ordered this but from Pure Encapsulations, because it is free from additives. Now, I just want to be clear that the cubes which I ordered as well are just the basic ones with no estrodial? Also, my vagina is in such sad shape, any ideas to relieve the itching, aching, etc or just suck it up till my goods get here..This is an awesome conversation BTW:)
DHEA
Posted by Lee (Ireland) on 04/23/2018
Susie, You may also have high oxalates, which can cause vulvodynia. http://thevpfoundation.org/ (vulvar pain foundation). I had excruciating vulvar and vaginal atrophy from 1994. In 2014 I found out about my high oxalates: see oxvox.com I am, as a result of this earthclinic conversation, now completely free of vaginal atrophy. Here's how:
I am having great success with making my own vag suppositories with enzymatic therapy Youthful you DHEA 5mg capsules - each of which, I split in 4 parts into a silicon ice cube tray, and then pour hot melted coconut oil over the powder - give it a quick stir to distribute evenly in the oil - and pop into the fridge for a couple hours. I then keep the tray of suppositories by my bed and pop one in at bedtime when I'm already lying down. I started slow - 1 a week - 2 and etc. I find that there is a systemic improvement in DHEA levels - and I now occasionally pop one of the supps into my mouth for over all improvement. So - no vulvar pain - no vaginal pain (combo of low oxa diet and DHEA).
Thanks everyone!
DHEA
Posted by Susie (Usa) on 04/05/2018
Mack, I am trying this now, waiting for my DHEA (micronized, 5mg ) to arrive and I have the Carlson's E suppositories, just going to poke a hole in the middle and put 2.5 mg in and see what happens. I am scared, though, as I am ULTRA sensitive to everything, that it will have somewhat of a systemic effect (I'm bipolar, have anxiety, etc.) but I have to do something about this atrophy.
My question to anyone is, I also have vulvar atrophy and had my first UTI, anyone take a little DHEA and rub it onto the vulva and clitoris and have results? I have a vulva cream that is awesome (a mixture of healing oils that has great reviews on Amazon) but does nothing for atrophy of course and I'm thinking of putting a very small amount of the powder into that and rubbing it in, maybe it will help that area also. I don't know if vaginal suppositories will help with vulvar atrophy.
DHEA
Posted by Marlene (Mn) on 03/08/2018
Thank you for your suggestions. I am thinking of trying it.
DHEA
Posted by Frances (Cabarlah, Qld.) on 03/01/2018
I just found this info. which might be useful, Quote from web site: Bezwecken, Inc. has created a new and exciting product, ReNewedTM DHEA Vaginal Suppositories. ReNewedTM contains an unique formula of DHEA in a soothing base of Cocoa Butter, Beeswax, Vitamin E and organic oils of: Calendula, Frankincense and Lavender.
DHEA
Posted by La (Brisbane, Australia) on 02/22/2018
★★★★★
Hi to all on the thread.
Thank you to all for your input, it has been wonderful to read about everyones experience with DHEA. like everyone else I did not want to use an oestrogen supplement for a prolapse and dry vagina.
This lead me to do a great deal of research on DHEA, which I then presented to my doctor with all the findings. Fortunately for me she knows me well and knows how thoroughly I research. We jointly had conversations with a local compounding pharmacy in Brisbane Australia that found a formula for DHEA suppositories 3.25mg (which was what I requested) they formulated a vaginal cream to insert with an applicator and also a refrigerated product to be inserted like a tampon. I have experimented with both of these and they both work extremely well. I am coming up to my third month with nightly doses. I found relief within one week when I started, no more burning and itching, and dryness is no more. The plus is that libido has increased. I am reporting back to my doctor next week and the great thing is that he is totally open to recommending to other women. Hope this helps any other Australians feeling the frustration.
DHEA
Posted by Frances (Cabarlah, Qld.) on 02/19/2018
I think it is worth noting the details for the Intrarosa product with DHEA for vaginal atrophy, esp. for those with Lichen Sclerosus. I believe it is now available in Canada, not sure about Australia.
http://us.intrarosa.com/
DHEA
Posted by Dee (Anonymous) on 02/13/2018
Dr Cabeca, maker of vaginal Juvla cream with DHEA has studies to show that DHEA applied that way is limited to local effects, and does not enter your bloodstream. Feel free to google it. I read the reviews and only one person claims to have 'felt' the effect of the cream. I haven't tried the cream, but I am super sensitive to DHEA. A pinch of it, brings up a period, and I'm post-menopausal, so I'd probably feel the effects in my body as well.
DHEA
Posted by Kl (Ohio) on 02/12/2018
Thank you for this! I too have been using the Murray Apothecary DHEA supposities for a couple of months now and have noticed a big difference in the VA and the dryness. Previous to that I'd been prescribed Estrace cream (by my doctor), but I couldn't use it due to the Estridiol causing unwanted side effects such as anxiety, bloating and menstral-type cramping. I agree that ordering the compounded DHEA suppositories does become expensive over time, so I'm going to try making my own with the Carlson-E suppositories.
The only *issue* that I've experienced since using the DHEA suppositories is a bit of water weight gain. Not sure if this is a common side-effect with DHEA or not?
DHEA
Posted by Cmor Uk (Northumberland) on 02/08/2018
Hi, I stumbled across this thread while trying to sort out my adrenal issues but also suffer from VA so I am well pleased!
Just wondering if anyone knows whether the DHEA would have an effect on the rest of the body if it's applied vaginally?
DHEA
Posted by Mack (California) on 02/04/2018
★★★★★
DHEA: Huge success. Here are the details - I ordered 2 items, from Vitacost online. DHEA tablets: Manufacturer is Douglas Laboratories DHEA Micronized 5mg. I split them in l/2, using a single edge blade or a pill cutter (from online drug store). Also ordered the Carlson Key-E suppositories. Separately, I googled 'vaginal suppository plastic applicator', and figured out where to get them. Even if you have to purchase a product 'off the shelf', to get the applicator - go for it. Let the flat end of the suppository, get a bit 'softish'. You can do this, by just holding your fingertip on the end, for art 15 seconds. Insert the suppository 'pointed end FIRST', so that when it is in the applicator, you are looking at the 'flat' end of the suppository. Take the l/2 of the DHEA tablet, and gently push it into the softened end of the suppository. It is MUCH easier, to have it all in the plastic applicator. If you need a little 'help' getting the applicator inside - use a bit of lubricant on the outside of the applicator. After act 5 days, I did not need any lubricant. This is MUCH easier, than melting the suppositories, and trying to mix up the l/2 of the DHEA pill, etc. The newly FDA approved DHEA suppositories called, 'IntraRosa', are too expensive for me. Murry Avenue Apothecary online, also has them; again, too expensive for me - but may be an option for a lot of you. Best regards.
Estriol Cream
Posted by Amanda (S. Fl) on 01/26/2018
★☆☆☆☆
I tried estriol suppositories and they did not help at all. I'm now trying the DHEA/Carlson suppository approach (2nd day) and will report back. Thank you to all the women on here for posting their experiences!
DHEA
Posted by Potty (Melborne, Australia) on 12/21/2017
I feel deeply grateful for everyone who has contributed to this thread. In Australia we can't buy DHEA or import it. The only thing that I could find is a homeopathic 6X DHEA so after Xmas will buy some and insert it vaginally and see if it helps. I have thinning and bleed lightly because of this. I have started daily swabbing with coconut oil.
I have also had a ring inserted to correct a vaginal prolapse and it is amazing. Like I'm back to normal after years of having this thing hang out!!! The gyno put me on Vagifem but after 5 months I started to notice a lot of low level side effects -
I'm not sleeping properly and I'm getting night sweats. Also there seems to be a lowering of my immune system and an increase in my pain level – pain is no longer settling overnight ( I have significant degeneration in my lumbar spine). Possible itchy ears and at night face itches plus skin on face seems more blemished. Liver tenderness. I also seem to have low level depression and anxiety and am not as peaceful as I usually am and get thrown by things that usually wouldn't upset me to such a degree. It feels as though I have lost my vitality.
DHEA
Posted by Sue (Uk) on 12/09/2017
I know it has been a while but for other readers too, DHEA is a precursor for several hormones.
DHEA
Posted by Tt (Norristown, Pa) on 11/02/2017
Thanks to the ladies on this board regarding DHEA and using the 5 mg micronized tabs from Douglas Labs. I take one 5mg tab and cut it up into 4 tabs. I take the 1.25 tab with a little Replens, vaginally. Using DHEA vaginal 1.25 mg has improved my quality of life. I no longer have constant feeling of a UTI and no longer have constant vaginal burning. I had a hysterectomy (no ovaries left). The doctors had me on estrogen till I turned 45, and then would no longer px estrogen. They would not even px vagifem. However, I finally found one doctor that would px vagifem. Even with vagifem, I had horrible vaginal dryness, and a feeling of a constant UTI (even though I did not have a UTI) and vaginal atrophy. I just started DHEA vaginal in September and DHEA has improved my quality of life. I still have vaginal atrophy, but the feeling of UTI is gone and constant feeling of vaginal burning is gone. I have not had any side effects on this dose.
Please remember, everyone is different and what works for one person, may not work for another. Of course, one should first check with their doctor, if they are considering using this.
DHEA
Posted by Bo (California Usa) on 08/12/2017
I've read that we should try to do DHEA in a.m. as it can cause sleep/insomnia issues.
DHEA
Posted by Pam (Usa) on 08/10/2017
Thank you, thank you, thank you. I had early menopause, am not sexually active, and am on an estrogen blocker post breast cancer. I had a Pap done yesterday and had to bite my tongue to keep from shouting from the pain. The doctor (new to me) could only suggest estrogen creme, which I can't use because of the breast cancer--and don't want to use anyway. I am in grateful tears learning that there is another solution.
DHEA
Posted by Debbie (Usa) on 08/06/2017
I JUST STUMBLED ON YOUR COMMENTS FROM 2015 on using dhea cubes for vaginal dryness. I am 62 and have severe dryness and atrophy. I have tried all the Rxs my gynecologist prescribed but sex is painfull to the point that I get cuts or splits after sex. Could you please give me full detail on where you buy and exact name anddosage. How r u doing now. Any side effects. In desperate need. Thanks
DHEA
Posted by Normajean (Nevada) on 07/30/2017
You might look into bio identical progesterone cream to possible help with insomnia. Thanks for the info though will give your suggestions a go.
DHEA
Posted by Lee (Nj) on 06/19/2017
Where do I get the suppositories?
DHEA
Posted by Harry (Los Angeles, Ca) on 06/15/2017
Congratulations on your success! However, you also mention that you're determined to figure your way out of your insomnia, too. So I just wanted to make a suggestion of what I think may be at the root of it and probably a host of other issues:
I think it's an iodine deficiency. Here's why I say that. While I understand that insomnia can have many different causes, I believe that endometriosis is generally caused by an iodine deficiency -- and insomnia is one of the many other issues that may arise because of it.
The odds that you are iodine deficient are quite high. As I recall, Dr. Flechas says that 94% of his patients tested deficient. (I can't recall if it was his female patients (who are actually more likely to be iodine deficient) or if it was 94% of his patients and those of Dr. Brownstein (who, along with Dr. Flechas, was recruited by the late, great Dr. Guy Abraham to do clinical research on iodine supplementation.
In any case, I highly recommend watching Dr. Flechas' YouTube videos (his longer ones -- 40+ minutes and 1-1/2 hours long) and educating yourself about iodine before beginning supplementation because it's a very complex topic and it's very important to take seven or eight nutrients along with the iodine -- including selenium, zinc, magnesium, Vitamin C, B-Complex, Riboflavin, and Niacin. (And I think there's at least one more that I'm forgetting.) And failing to do so can not only result in you not getting the benefit of the iodine, but it can also harm you by aggravating an autoimmune hypothyroid condition called Hashimoto's.
So it's a complex topic that requires an expenditure of time and effort. However, I think you'll find it well worth it in the end. And, by the way, by doing so, you'll be dramatically lowering your risk of cancer along with a myriad of other benefits too numerous to mention.
Sea Kelp
Posted by ME Martinez (El Centro, Ca) on 05/28/2017
★★★★★
Vaginal atrophy cure:
Try SEA KELP. It fixed my delicate, sensitive, irritated, painful private parts. Highly recommend!! I finally feel normal again! I now take 1 pill 225 mgs daily (mornings). Had complete hysterectomy last year at age 55 hoping it would help recover the many feminine issues I had, but it did not fix much. The DHEA also helped me but this much more. I take both now.
I take 100 mgs of DHEA once a week.
I have been on the Kelp only a few weeks now but the results were within a few days!
DHEA
Posted by Lynn (California) on 05/12/2017
@Mar - To help with sleep, I've found that 400 mg of magnesium an hour before bed has been a big help. I use a mixed magnesium with Magnesium Oxide, Magnesium Citrate and Magnesium Aspartate - 400 mg. It doesn't cause diarrhea but will keep things "easy".
You can also try magnesium spray. I'm not a fan of the odd kind of sticky, kind of oily feeling on the skin though so I haven't gotten into using it like so many others. They say the lotion doesn't cause that problem.
DHEA
Posted by Mar (Mexico) on 05/09/2017
★★★★★
I'm so thankful for earth clinic and for all the women that have commented on this cure, you saved my life! I was depressed to the point of being suicidal after my oophorectomy at 43 (my last ovary removed due to endometriosis). I expected some hot flashes, but my doctor never mentioned "your sex life will be over" as a menopause symptom (or I would've waited out the endo) So after my first attempt after the operation, I had painful sex for the first time ever... I had an emotional breakdown! I researched furiously for days and once again, earthclinic was the source for the best remedy! (I've come here before for many other remedies in the past)
Reading all your comments, I started looking for what I could find in my country. I found DHEA tablets, got some cocoa butter, melted the cocoa butter and added the pulverised tablet, poured the concoction as drops on wax paper, let them harden and voila! Home made DHEA suppositories. The go in smoothly, and I used them daily for a week or two, and now only twice a week. The cost is minimal, and no side effects. Back to having amazing sex again. The days I use them I know ill have some goo in my undies, (chocolate smelling goo LOL), but no biggie. Now that dryness is a thing of the past, I can try just the fraction of tablet without the cocoa butter, I guess! Right now the ONLY menopausal symptom that I haven't been able to research myself out of is insomnia...but I'm determined to figure that one out next!! Thank you to all commenters, thank you earth clinic!
DHEA
Posted by Allyd (Nyc Area) on 04/29/2017
I used to use suppositories for this purpose, but after talking with my compounder, he said you don't really need the suppository, if your situation is such that you can just insert a tablet (if you are too dry or your atrophy makes it difficult). If you are a point where you can still insert something small, you may not need the suppository, just a tablet.
I have purchased Douglas brand micronized DHEA tablets, 5 mg and 10 mg.
They are very tiny.
You can split the tablets if you want a dose other than 5 or 10.
I insert one, it dissolves BINGO. No mess. Sometimes a tiny little bit of discharge but invisible. No taste or odor to it.
If you need some help to insert it, you can use a bit of another vaginal suppository or natural oil like coconut or whatever agrees with your body, and perhaps a inserter like for an ovule or suppository.
If you read the research they based the doses on 3.25,6.5 and 13. 25 (or something similar), every day for one month and then tapering or intermittently. The best results were with the higher doses but the tiny increases in serum hormone levels were the highest there too, but all still within normal post-menopausal levels.
Earlier in perimenopause the 5 mg did fine for me, After a month, I reduced to a few times a week and ultimately then cut in half.
As I progressed tho, I needed a bit more and I redid the one month course of 10 mg, which I supplemented with a tiny bit of a DHEA cream for the vulva area, called Julva, to "add up" to 13.
The I started dropping to a few days a week. If I neglect it, I have to do the every day thing again for a while
But honestly with the tablet it is so unobtrusive that it is no big deal.
I tested my levels and they did in fact stay within normal limits. The Vaginal DHEA does NOT affect you like the topical or ingested one. It does its work near where you put it... just like you want it too!
Ladies this WORKS. I have adrenal fatigue so even tho my estrogen was not too low, none of the estrogenic effects got anywhere near where the "trouble" was. Adrenal deficiency or low DHEA can help explain why some women with the same estrogen levels could have dryness while others don't.
And if I am stressed out and my DHEA drops... sure enough my dryness increases and I up back to 10 for a while.
Julva is a cream by a doctor, search it online. I use some of that around the urethra for some Urinary tract issues and to supplement my tablets a little.
Good luck ladies. Once the FDA approves this I hope they don't take it all away from us and make us get costly prescriptions for it.
Because so far this is a miracle solution.
DHEA
Posted by Barbara (Tn) on 04/12/2017
Walker! You don't have to go thru the hassle of using the vitamin e, you can order the DHEA suppositories and just use 1/2 a cube nightly for 12 nights and then just twice a week after. The people from UK can't get the suppositories. This is what I do.
Just an idea.
DHEA
Posted by Barbara (Collierville, Tn) on 03/17/2017
I ordered these and just started them, I cut them in Half and inset, will see how it goes and report back.
DHEA
Posted by Isabelle (United Kingdom) on 03/09/2017
Hi Sandra
Thanks a lot for your testimony. I also live in the UK and I have the same problem, vaginal atrophy. I am very interested in the mix of Carlsons cube and the dhea 10mg.
Can you tell me if it's still working after a year please? Do you have any side effects? Where can I buy the carlson cubes? Does it also work for the libido? Many thanks for your help.
DHEA
Posted by Margaret (California ) on 01/28/2017
Thank you so much for all these helpful suggestions! So encouraging! If you can't find Carlson's, try melting a bit of coconut oil and adding a mg or so of the dhea powder (mix even amounts of the dhea to coconut oil)- (i.e. 1/2 tsp oil to 1 mg dhea powder) pour into ice cube tray freeze for an hour then pop em out for storage in baggie and use a couple times a week.
DHEA
Posted by Erin (Webster, Sd) on 12/11/2016
I have vaginal atrophy very badly where sex is out of the question. Plus I'm raw and have a discharge. I'd love a follow up as to if this is still working for you since it's now 12/2016. I am wanting to try this system. Already did Premarin and also Vagifem and they did absolutely nothing at all. Thanks Erin
DHEA
Posted by Christine (Uk) on 11/07/2016
Hi Laurie. I bought mine from Healthmonthly.co.uk Swanson 120 capsules 10mg for £4.68. I am just about to give them a go tomorrow. As we do not have the Carlsons I will try the cotton bud method with coconut oil suggested by Tommi.
DHEA
Posted by Laurie (Southport, Uk) on 11/06/2016
Sandra, your information is so helpful, thank you. I have just found this, and so went straight on to Amazon to order both the Carlsons and the Swanson DHEA, but neither of them are on there! I'm guessing they've been stopped for some reason. I will look to see if I can find them anywhere else in the UK (SO frustrating that the simple solution of a DHEA suppository isn't available to us here). In the meantime, if you read this, please would you advise where you are now sourcing them? Many thanks!
DHEA
Posted by Christine (Uk) on 11/02/2016
This question is to Sandra from the UK. Could you please give me an update on how things are going. I have VA and the skin outside my vagina cuts after intercourse and is very painful. I am taking vagifem and an oral estrogen/progesterone and am suffering with sore breasts and headaches and it's not working very well. I mentioned DHEA to my doctor who said she had never heard of it and dismissed it. Also is it possible to just put the powder in the vagina without using the carlson capsules. How high up should it be put.
DHEA
Posted by Jeannie (Oregon) on 11/02/2016
Thank you for your post. It is a great help and I appreciate your being very specific about your routine and how this affects you. I am in the process of investigating this problem since it has become unbearable.
Medications
Posted by Mary (Arcadia, California) on 09/19/2016 51 posts
I have found bezwecken suppositories at askdrhelen.com she is a natural doctor and sells bezwecken suppositories. I just bought some from her. Hopes this helps you. blessings Mary
DHEA
Posted by Lucy (Usa) on 09/18/2016
Susan,
You might give the herbal infusion of oat straw a try and see if it helps restore your hormonal balance, as per herbalist Susun Weed. You can buy a pound of oat straw herb on amazon. Measure out one ounce of the herb and place in a quart jar. Boil water and fill the jar. Allow to steep for at least 4 hours or overnight. Strain out the herb and drink from 2 to 4 cups of the infusion daily. Refrigerate remainder for up to 36 hours. Easy enough. It is recommended that you purchase the loose herb and not tea bags or capsules, to obtain the best effect.
There is a liquid probiotic product called Flora PM rich in humic minerals that may also restore your balance. It is made in the USA so it may be costly to ship to Canada.
I have a friend who is a breast cancer survivor who was helped in this department by the Flora PM and I think it works in the same way as the oat straw infusion, by providing nutrients to the body.
Pomegranate Oil
Posted by Frances (Cabarlah, Qld.) on 09/18/2016
★★★★★
Recently on an essential oil summit on the internet, one of the lady presenters said that the best oil for vaginal atrophy is pomegranate. I found a source in the UK via eBay.
DHEA
Posted by Susan (Canada) on 09/16/2016
Wondering if anyone else's atrophy was caused by chemotherapy? I was treated with chemo for breast cancer. Now my oncologist reluctantly prescribed Premarin but says it is risky for cancer fuelled by estrogen. I'm 47 & the atrophy is terrible. As if cancer was not bad enough.
DHEA
Posted by Walker (Tn / Usa) on 09/08/2016
I just found these "conversations" tonight on
vaginal atrophy and I am amazed that more physicians aren't aware of this remedy. So many of you have nothing but praise for this solution. After reading all the comments, I have to try your method, Sandra ... just ordered the Carlsons Key E and some 25 mg DHEA capsules online from Amazon.
I can't wait to get my order and start making up my own remedy. Thank you so much sharing your discovery ... I'll keep you posted on my results; and hopefully that will be soon.
DHEA
Posted by Shirley (U.k. ) on 09/04/2016
I have terrible trouble sitting and lying down. I'm only a week into these dhea plus Carlson and have not had much change yet but hoping for some improvement very soon. I just want to sit with comfort. Has anyone else had these problems and did it take the dhea longer to work? Very interested.
DHEA
Posted by Robert Henry (Ten Mile, Tn) on 09/01/2016
HI U WYDO,,,,,,,,,, my integrative doctor has his wife on Nattokinase because she has A fib. I also take this along with Taurine and Cartizim. I don't like doing pharmaceuticals, but I also don't like going to the ER in the middle of the night when my pulse hits 180 and I can hear my heart beats in my ears.
I have a better solution......... don't get old.
==========ORH==========
DHEA
Posted by Wydo (Ca) on 08/31/2016
Marcy, please look into Nattokinase for your blood clots. This will help greatly for that and many other things as well, such as cleaning up your veins. It is a type of enzyme from a soybean ferment. Any soy in it has been removed although one brand puts it in soy oil so if you are sensitive to soy look at what the other ingredients are.
DHEA
Posted by Shirleyw (Uk) on 08/30/2016
thank you Sandra, I started them last night with the dhea I will update next week. And thank you for posting as this alone will help people in The UKðŸ‘âï¸âï¸âï¸
DHEA
Posted by Shirleyw (Uk) on 08/25/2016
Thank you Sandra, I started them last night with the dhea I will update next week. And thank you for posting as this alone will help people in The UKðŸ‘âï¸âï¸âï¸
DHEA
Posted by Sandra (Uk) on 08/23/2016
Shirley. Carlson Key E, to give them their full name, are natural vitamin E suppositories. From the description on the rear of the box: they are natural soothing inserts prepared with a base derived from coconut and palm oils. They also contain natural-scource vitamin E. It is these Carlsons that supply the hydration and soothing that us ladies with atrophy are so lacking. They do give immediate relief from that awful dryness. Then the Sylk, necessary to get the DHEA to adhere to the Carlson suppository, also provides further hydration in itself. The DHEA is necessary to solve the long term problem, and the nearest we have to a cure that I know of without going down the route of using Premarin or Vagifem which my body couldn't tolerate. I purposefully tracked down the lowest dose of DHEA with the intention of increasing it if I thought it necessary, but it appears to be enough to ease my symptoms. However, I could only find it in capsule form at Swanson so I can only hope they will continue selling it for as long as it is needed. Maybe one day we in the UK will be able to purchase the dehydration cubes that those fellow sufferers in the U.S. are lucky to be able to buy.
Regarding your question concerning the DHEA cream. I will have to do a bit of research into that as I don't really have any knowledge of it beyond being used solely for anti-ageing. Maybe somebody else on this site has used it and has any comments to add concerning the cream and whether it could be beneficial for atrophy?
Shirley, if you have any further questions just ask and I will try to remember to look in on this site more often. My homemade 'recipe' appears to be working for others too and it's worth a trial as, let's face it, we don't have too many options open to us.
DHEA
Posted by Shirleyw (West Yorkshire) on 08/17/2016
Please forgive my ignorance but what is a Carlson? And could you use dhea cream. I have been in absolute agony for 5 years now. Please advise, many thanks Shirley
Evening Primrose Oil
Posted by Kate (Il) on 08/11/2016
★★★★★
I read this and have been using the evening primrose capsules vaginally & by mouth. It has helped.
DHEA
Posted by Sandra (U.k) on 06/24/2016
Caroline. Yes, the DHEA capsules are originally for oral use but research in the U.S. shows that using them internally minimises/negates any potential side effects.
Any small plastic container suffices, in fact I no longer use the lid on mine, just shake the Carlsons suppository, Sylk and DHEA from side to side to coat the Carlsons. Any small plastic container will be ok - mine originally contained disposable gloves for hair dye but how about those little containers used to measure medicine or those see through ones that you get on top of toiletries. Easy to rinse out after use and small is good only because you then don't waste so much of the DHEA that tends to stick to the sides. As long as half the suppository just fits into the container it will be perfect. As for inserting vaginally there is only one way and that is to just pretend it's a tampon! The Carlsons are really quite comfortable to use due to their waxy composition. I usually place half a dozen or so into my bathroom cabinet for immediate use and store the remainder of the Carlsons in the fridge.
It has only been a matter of a few months now and, to tell the truth, the Atrophy rarely, if ever, crosses my mind. Mine was so severe as I had been wrongly informed that when I had my hysterectomy some 25 years ago that it was partial, had never been offered any treatment, and was in total ignorance of the long term effects it was having on my vaginal health. It was only when I got to my mid 60's and questioned why I didn't have any menopausal symptoms that the error came to light. I had also given up attempting any form of intimacy, due to the excruciating pain that involved nearly 15 years ago, so wasn't aware of how my condition had really worsened since that time.
So, here I am today and I only use the DHEA about every 3 days or so, and without having to go into details, I can so tell the difference when inserting the Carlsons that maybe if the right man came along ...... well, who knows! The thought certainly doesn't appear to terrify me any more.
Jojoba Oil
Posted by Londy (Portland Or) on 06/14/2016
Try brand Desert Essence
DHEA
Posted by Marcia (Denver) on 05/17/2016
I found silicon ice cube trays that are perfect for making suppositories. (They are for water bottles, long and narrow.). I warm coconut oil and pour into the trays, then freeze. I cut into thirds and insert. Easy! Will purchase another for the dhea. Thanks ladies!
DHEA
Posted by Sara (London) on 04/30/2016 3 posts
Hi I was so interested in your progress so guess who also got Carlsons, and swansons dhea. I also purchased a dilator kit. Day one of using all 3. Dialator for ten mind gently probing sore spots as per instructions. It's such an upsetting and embarrassing condition that I felt compelled to join the thread and will keep you updated. Thank you for sharing x
DHEA
Posted by Caroline (Uk) on 04/29/2016
It is so comforting to read these posts. I have been suffering from vaginal atrophy for a few years (I'm 62) and given up on Vagifem to replace my oestrogen because it gave me severe abdominal pains and left the skin burning and sore once I reduced the doseage. If DHEA can do the job, I will be delighted.
Sandra, can I just ask you to confirm. You buy DHEA from Swanson as 10g capsules which are meant to be swallowed. Instead, you use half a capsule and mix it with half a Vitamin E suppository, using Sylk lubricant as a mixer.
What is the little plastic tub you mix it in?
How do you then get the mixture inserted into your vagina??
DHEA
Posted by Sandra (U.k) on 04/04/2016
Louise. Carlsons are vaginal suppositories containing vitamin E which I obtained from Amazon. When you remove them from the foil they are each individually enclosed in I can only describe them as a white, waxy bullet. When I have pulled down the foil about half way down I then insert my thumb nail to separate the suppository in two and just take the top piece and place it in my tiny lidded container, and rewrap the piece left in the foil to use up next time. As stated previously I then tip out half of the DHEA capsule (keeping the half remaining capsule to use next time with the suppository) put the lid on the plastic container and shake them both up together. I did discover a better way though and have bought a lubricant called Sylk (I'm sure any water based lube would be OK) and add just one drop to the plastic container before I shake it. This improved the take up of the DHEA onto the Carlsons. So there you have it, my D.I.Y recipe (following weeks of Google research) to finally beat this very painful condition of severe atrophy. The Carlsons gave me immediate relief from the soreness and dryness, and there is hope that the DHEA will provide a long term return to normality. I did use this every day for a month and now reduced to alternate days 3 times a week with a break at the weekends. The cost is minimal and I don't suffer any of the symptoms I was experiencing before. I would have used the Dehydration Cubes if they were available in the U.K. but they just aren't but as this method is undeniably working for me I am quite happy to continue with it. I was prescribed Vagifem by my local hospital but was too sore to even be able to insert the applicator without a great deal more pain and within 5 days I was so unwell I knew I couldn't continue with it. The severe headache in itself was unbearable but I had severe cramps in my lower regions and, it's hard to describe, but I felt as if my body was trying to eject that one small, hard tablet. I am a person who has experienced similar headaches which went on day after day whenever I was described anything hormonal but I have had no problem whatsoever in tolerating the DHEA and it doesn't remind me of its presence in any way. I insert it and forget it. Simples!
DHEA
Posted by Louise (Nsw) on 03/28/2016
Thank you for sharing and I am trying to find a solution to atrophy also.
I am just trying to understand your response.
You will insert vaginally a low dose DHEA capsule? I am unsure what a Carlson is. Any information would be most helpful.
L
DHEA
Posted by Sandra (U.k) on 02/16/2016
★★★★★
Hydration cubes or anything like that are not available in the U.K. After a lot of searching I decided to use the Carlsons, but the main problem was getting hold of the low dose DHEA capsules. It took a lot of research but I finally found them at a company called Swanson. I ordered one bottle of 120 10mg for less than £9 with postage. It is quite simple, I break a Carlson in half (a whole one is too much) and roll it in the contents of a DHEA capsule, which has been opened up and put into a small plastic container. One capsule lasts about 3 days so 120 will last approx a year. I intend to do this daily for a month and then cut down to 3 times a week. My severe atrophy symptoms disappeared within a few days and now I feel completely cured and it's only been 2 weeks!
I hope this is of benefit to those of you residing in the U.K as we do not appear to have the resources available to us that there are in the U.S.
Estriol Cream
Posted by Mary (N.c) on 02/15/2016 10 posts
★★★★★
Lisa,
Yes, age makes a difference. I sympathize with your situation but let me tell you what I've learned. First off though, I just turned 80 years old, and for the first time in my life started suffering with severe vaginal atrophy (va). My doctor immediately wanted to start me on Premarin cream.....of all things... and even as uninformed as I was about va, I knew instinctively that estrogen applied to the vagina is not a good idea because of the cancer risks. The doctor told me not to worry because when used topically around the vaginal opening and very little applied inside, it would not pose a problem. She never did offer any information as to what caused this condition or if there was any cure. I was so skeptical and even angry with her cavalier attitude that I decided I would go by my own gut instincts and not fill the Premarin cream prescription. I also set about doing my own homework about the condition. But to add to my woes, I also have Pelvic Organ Prolapse, which is not surprising since all five of my children were born vaginally, and the births were a terrific strain on the muscles which certainly accounts for the prolapse. But the vaginal atrophe is due to the depletion of cell and hormone production as we age. To my surprise I also learned that sex actually helps keep the vaginal canal lubricated and thus is beneficial.
Medications
Posted by Gayle (Ga) on 11/28/2015
Used Biodentical Hormones 3 yrs ago, age 56, for about 18 months, rubbed the compound as prescribed under my arms between the elbow and armpit for approx. 12-18 months, developed Melanoma spot at the exact area compound was placed! Be careful and observe your bodies when using these chemicals. I threw the stuff in the trash!
Jojoba Oil
Posted by Mysearchcontinues (Washington Dc) on 10/11/2015
Thank you for sharing. I've been looking for alternatives to drugs. Any brand in particular?
DHEA
Posted by Allyson (Nyc) on 10/09/2015
Search the internet and you can find and download the actual studies themselves.
The studies clearly show that when used only intravaginally, the DHEA affects blood serum levels of the other hormones either not at all or minimally and within the normal range for post menopausal women. The effect on the other hormones is no where near as strong as if you ingested DHEA or used a cream.
An internet search can find the studies which you can download for free. Here is one of the links, which includes references to some of the other studies: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/838010
Jojoba Oil
Posted by Jas (San Diego) on 10/07/2015
How do you insert the jojoba oil? Have been using coconut oil & vitamin E suppositories every 2-3 days at night, amazingly effective in only a couple of weeks! More plump tissue, even mons, libido seems to be returning, more urine control. Can't believe no MD or naturopath suggested anything besides kegels, hormone or bioidentical hormone cream in all these years of incontenence, low libido, & too painful for sexual activity.
DHEA
Posted by Allyson (Nyc Metro) on 10/07/2015
Actually, if you read the research, the good thing about these is that they do NOT convert into estrogen or testosterone in the blood significantly. I read the the studies so far and the increases in blood levels were minimal, especially at the lower dose of 3.5 mg.
DHEA
Posted by Tommi (Nc) on 08/15/2015
★★★★★
It is working as today is the 8th day. I have made it easier by making tiny heaps of the mixture made in the above insert written, onto wax or aluminium foil and places in a container, and placed in refrigerator. The dosage is 5 mg (u can get 10 mg or 5 mg micronized dhea capsules) for 30 "suppositories". It is easier after taking out form the fridge and just insert them by hand the q tip. The micronized dhea is best absorbed via mucous membrane and the coconut oil is an anti inflammatory and anti fugal. Needless to say with a dry lining inside, anything and everything caused itching but not this! I tried the DHEA cubes and the estrio cubes both gave me thrush after 4 days but this is the best way I could use and the cheapest. Of course one has to be judicious about using them.
DHEA still is a steroid so cannot use permanently on a regular basis as it does convert to estradiol and testosterone, but because it is vaginal the rate of absorption and therefore conversion is much less in the circulation. But now it has to be herbal pills for oral, extrotone, back cohosh etc, and vaginal moisturizers, VIT e and coconut oil most non reactive and natural and the occasional use of DHEA once the cells of the vaginal lining has regenerated. I do not plan to take my preparation daily everyday once the 30 days are up and in the manner I have already described.
Also, one has to at least do a saliva testing of hormone levels at least twice a year. There are risks for us women taking any kind of steroids for the long term.
DHEA
Posted by Tommi (Nc) on 08/11/2015
I have been off and on hormones as I had menopause at age 41 and first 2 yrs I was on premarin and depo. The next 2 years on compounding bioidentical. Next 1 year of Vivelle patch only, Then 2 years of root/natural concoction by a local (overseas) which really worked wonders as I lost all abdominal fat, breasts perky, and vaginal secretion. Realized that won't be safe in the long run so went off. Vaginal atrophy and serious drenching hot flashes every 20 mins. Got on amazon smoky mtns estriol and progesterone cream. after 3 months off again and now everything is back. I am 52 now and I have atrophy so no sex or even desire. Decide no more estrogen natural or otherwise as I have extensive family history of cancer on both sides.
To make a long story short, I have decided on DHEA after researching on the net. I tried estriol cubes meant for the skin by Bezwecken but ended up with vaginal thrush. So I ordered micronized dhea online (douglas labs brand), bought unrefined extra virgin coconut oil from whole foods (USA) and broke 15 capsules into a large tablespoon (heaped) of coconut oil, blended well wth a spoon and use a q tip to take a small amount (in my mind that tablespoon will be 30 doses using it with the q tips, as much as it would carry on the tip without dropping) and insert in my vagina every morning after breakfast as DHEA, testosterone peaks then. Today is the 5th day and I will continue for a month and if atrophy feels better, will come down to 2 times a week for 2 months then 1 time per week and then once every other week for maintenance. I will write after I see results.
DHEA
Posted by Nevergiveup (Fresno, Ca) on 08/06/2015
I have suffered from VA off and on for more than 20 years. Reluctantly resorted to vegifem, Premarin, helped some, but, not for long and worried about side effects. Now Osphena is being offered. I know they say it isn't estrogen, but, works like estrogen in the vagina. I am still concerned about the negative effects of too much estrogen. Any thoughts out there on the safety of osphena? I have just started the DHEA hydration cubes. I hoping those do the job instead of main stream drugs. But, is their still a worry about the DHEA converting to estrogen with negative side effects?
DHEA
Posted by Kathryn4 (Maryland) on 07/24/2015
Suggestion: First go to a very good muscles testing person to see what level of DHEA your body needs.
Medications
Posted by James (Co) on 07/23/2015
Lee, you're welcome. Good luck. And I know what you mean about things being confusing. Personally, what I found after doing lots of reading, is that it's like there's two voices out there. One is the voice of the typical, Western medicine approach, where pharmaceutical companies develop drugs and then submit it to the FDA for approval, and then when/if that drug is approved, then the pharmaceutical companies go to work to educate the doctors and try and get them to prescribe it. (Do a search for "do doctors receive kickbacks from pharmaceutical companies" on Google, and you'll see there's plenty of info on that.) But these drugs aren't natural. They're not totally bio-identical. If they were, the pharmaceutical companies could not patent them. Instead, they've had to tweak something about the molecular structure to make it unique where they could patent it. And all one has to do, is look at how many women got breast cancer from taking HRT to know how the bodies of some women reacted to these synthetic substances whose molecular structure is foreign to their bodies.
And then the other voice, is the totally bio-identical one - that says to women, don't put something in your body unless the molecular structure of that substance is naturally occurring in your body. And that's how my wife and I discovered natural progesterone, and years later, E3 vaginal suppositories, and then later, the hydration cubes.
When the first voice says estrogen, and progesterone, they don't mean the same thing as when the second voice says those terms. So, it can be confusing. They're not the same thing. And therein lies the challenge, I think, to the lay person.
Medications
Posted by Mama To Many (Tennessee) on 07/23/2015
Dear Jennysmom2,
Yes, here is my recipe for something like Dr. Shultze's Ladies Formula:
Mix together the following herbs in the amounts explained.
1 part Dong Quai Root (Angelica)
1 part Chaste Tree Berries (Vitex)
1 part Wild Yam Root
1 part of the following mix - (3 parts Damiana leaf, 1 part Hops Flowers, 1 part Licorice root)
Take 2 ounces of the dried herb and put into a mason jar. Pour 16 ounces (2 cups) 100 Proof Vodka (50% aqueous-alcohol solution) over the herbs. Put the lid on the jar. Shake twice a day. After two weeks (up to six weeks), strain through a clean piece of muslin or t-shirt fabric or coffee filter. Store in a cool dark place.
When I made this tincture, I skipped the Hops Flowers and Licorice root because I didn't have them on hand and there was not a lot in the mixture. So I just used equal parts of Dong Quai Root, Chaste Tree Berries, Wild Yam Root and Damiana Leaf.
I usually get my herbs from Mountain Rose Herbs. You can just get 1/4 pound of each. Between that and the vodka, the up front cost seems like a lot. But you will be able to make oodles of this tincture. The tincture will last a couple of years. So you could make a lot of this stuff up at once and not worry about it for a while.
A general way to dose this is 1-2 droppersfull (35-70 drops) 3 times a day. This should not be taken in pregnancy.
The website where I got this information is: How to Make Female Formula
There is more specific dosing information there.
I am glad it helps you. I think it is helpful, too!
~Mama to Many~
Borax Scent
Posted by Marilyn (Nashville, Tn) on 07/23/2015
★☆☆☆☆WARNING!
I would be very careful with DHEA! Did you know it contains testosterone? A friend of mine just told me she had been using it and started to grow a moustache and other side effects. Please read up on all the side effects before using it.
DHEA
Posted by Mary (The Netherlands) on 07/23/2015
Hi all, I really would like to order these DHAE cubes but shipping it to Europe is quite expensive. Does anyone know if I can get this anywhere in Europe? I cannot find it on the Internet. I really would be very thankful.
DHEA
Posted by Gracd (Falls Church Va) on 07/22/2015
Hi, over time did you continue using DHEA? Did it affect your fibroids? I've just been told by a compounding pharmacist that DHEA breaks down into estradiol which concerns me. Any insight would be greatly recommended as I'm deciding upon which treatment to embark upon.
Medications
Posted by Jennysmom2 (Idaho) on 07/22/2015
I have found that the women's formula is very helpful, but expensive. Mama to Many, do you have a recipe for yours? I would appreciate it....
Medications
Posted by Lee (Toronto) on 07/19/2015
"Mama to Many"
and James,
Thank you for your suggestions...the "Female Formula" sounds promising and it sent me off into many more hours of research!
There are several natural remedies to explore although it's hard to not just want a "quick fix" ( well relatively quick, anyway) by taking the DHEA cubes or estriol cubes that seem to have such a high success rate. I wouldn't do that without seeking medical advice, however,
James, I actually was googling naturopaths today so your link comes at a good time. The last naturopathic experience I had wasn't great so here's hoping the website you shared steers me in the right direction.
And, yes, I see that The Natural now has the DHEA cubes back in stock. They were out of stock for the last few days so I gave up. I know...patience is required but I've always been one to want to wrap up a problem quickly. I can see now, though, that this won't be the case.
The problem is that the more you research, the more confusing it becomes. For example, I've read all kinds of conflicting ideas about bio-identical hormones, etc. and it becomes a matter of who or what to believe. I have listened to a little of what Dr. John Lee has to say but should probably investigate him more.
Anyway, I'll report back later when I'm farther down the road with this.
Thank you so much for your help!
Medications
Posted by Lynne (Ga) on 07/19/2015
I just ordered a 12-cube pack of Bezwecken DHEA Cubes from NaturalNutritionals.com. I am confused as some here have mentioned types of dhea being used as suppositories in a range of dosages from 3.5mg to 13 mg if I remember correctly. that is quite a difference. there are also several names being tossed about for seemingly the same thing? I received my order, but they don't have the amount of dhea in each cube listed, which I think is strange, but it's not like it is some off-brand. Consequently I will be calling the seller tomorrow to ask some questions. My question here is, it seems some are using a 3.5 mg sublingual tablet normally taken by mouth as a suppository and halving or quartering it which seems like a very tiny amount. I have severe dryness and no libido, but my hormones are not too far off. I'm 67 and been menopausal since 1996. And have not had sex in about 15 years. I know. I know. Gotta use it. Anyway, I am extremely careful about what I put in and on my body and don't have any faith whatsover in doctors. I pretty much go by how I feel and other than a constant annoying post nasal drip am very healthy.
Medications
Posted by James (Co) on 07/18/2015
When you say you tried ordering the cubes but they're not available...can you expound on that? Because I just googled Bezwecken DHEA cubes and one of the sites that came up was thenatural.com and that's where I've been getting the hydration cubes from. It would have let me add to cart. Maybe you mean you're unable to buy them in Canada.
By the way, it would probably help if you could find a Naturopath. I started to try and detail the education level of a Naturopath, but was at a loss...so I googled it, and this is from naturopathic.org:
A licensed naturopathic physician (ND) attends a four-year, graduate-level naturopathic medical school and is educated in all of the same basic sciences as an MD, but also studies holistic and nontoxic approaches to therapy with a strong emphasis on disease prevention and optimizing wellness. In addition to a standard medical curriculum, the naturopathic physician also studies clinical nutrition, homeopathic medicine, botanical medicine, psychology, and counseling. A naturopathic physician takes rigorous professional board exams so that he or she may be licensed by a state or jurisdiction as a primary care general practice physician.
I'm no doctor...but here's what I think - I think that warning about blood clotting is unique to, or originates from, the fact that all estrogens that an MD prescribes are actually not bio-identical to a human. For example, Premarin comes from pregnant mares urine. Well, I'm sorry...Medical profession...but a woman's body isn't fully receptive to the hormones that are in a horse. Examined under a microscope, Premarin contains things not found normally in a woman's body. So of course some women are going to have a reaction to it.
But don't take my word for it. If you haven't already, it sounds like it would really help you to reference some of the Dr. John Lee resources. For example, back when I was researching Natural Progesterone, I bought every recording and video that's on his site, as well as several books. I listened to his recordings over and over and over, and it really helped give me an intro into a woman's hormones, and reproductive system. True, they were made a while back, but it would still help you immensely, imho.
Don't give up! Hang in there!
I understand that you're frustrated. I've been there. Well, in case you're open to finding a Naturopathic Physician, I did some googling, and found this:
http://www.cand.ca/Find_an_ND.findnd.0.html
It's the Canadian organization of Naturopathic Doctors. They have a search engine to look for an ND.
Good luck.
DHEA Suppositories
Posted by Lynne (Georgia) on 07/18/2015
Kate, I just ordered some bezwecken dhea cubes on line from NaturalNutritionals.com. I guess these cubes are relatively new? anyway, they can easily be inserted, maybe best at night with a pantie liner. I just received mine and am going to first try quartering them, and go from there. I am 67 and have not had sex in almost 15 years b/c of lack of libido and mostly vaginal dryness. It just hurts and takes the fun out of sex. An update from you on what you have tried, if anything, since posting.
Medications
Posted by Mama To Many (Tennessee) on 07/18/2015
Dear Lee,
There is a Dr. Shultze product called "Ladies Formula" that is an herbal combination to help balance hormones for ladies of all ages. At 48, I find it very helpful. I make my own as it is much less expensive that way.
One of the herbs in it is Damiana. This herb is helpful for increasing circulation to the pelvic area. Taking one or two capsules of this once or twice a day might do the trick for you.
~Mama to Many~
Medications
Posted by Lee (Toronto) on 07/18/2015
So I tried ordering the DHEA cubes but they're not available so I ordered the estriole 1x hydration cubes instead.
Now, after doing more research, I feel somewhat hesitant, if not terrified, to take estriol given my history of stroke which was caused by a blood clot not a hemorrhage.
All estrogens, no matter how weak, seem to come with an increased risk of clotting in some individuals so I'm thinking it might be risky or just plain stupid to take estriol even if it is only vaginally.
I'm now desperate for a non-hormonal solution given my medical history. I've tried vaginal mosturizers like Replens and lubricants like Astroglide but they do not help at all! I know several people have mentioned using vitamin E suppositories...how helpful have these been in terms of improving or alleviating painful/impossible intercourse?
Any other suggestions? I've spent so many hours researching/worrying about this...any ideas would be appreciated. Thank you.
Medications
Posted by James (Co) on 07/17/2015
You're welcome, Lee. Yeah, I certainly invested a lot of time into this.
You know, we just happened to come across the 1x cubes first. In fact, I didn't even realize there was a 2x version until much later...and the 1x cubes worked by then, so she never even tried them.
Before my wife's Naturopath notified her of the hydration cubes being released, I was searching frantically for a replacement for the old E3 suppositories. And I found some very interesting clinical studies which had been done with DHEA suppositories. I was very excited for her to try them. Unfortunately, the on-line pharmacy from whom I bought them, was either lazy, or cheap, or dumb...and they used glycol as the base or delivery method for the DHEA vaginal suppositories. Well, that's what they put into antifreeze! Needless to say, my wife's body had a reaction. She developed a mild irritation - lots of itching. So I was disappointed, and we had to throw them away. (We even tried it twice! The second time, after she had taken a break for a while. But the same results - lots of itching.)
Before I could find a version of DHEA suppositories that used a more gentle base or delivery method, she got the email from her Naturopath, saying that Bezwecken had just released the hydration cubes.
I'm no doctor...but if you go the DHEA route, please listen to your body carefully, because you won't know for sure what it converts the DHEA into...be it Estrogen, Progesterone, etc. I mean, if like in the clinical trials, it works...then awesome! If it works, it works! (I still remember Dr. Christine Northrup saying that, "listen to your body.")
It would be wonderful for other women reading this, Lee, if you could report back here with your results.
All the best!
James
Medications
Posted by Lee (Toronto) on 07/16/2015
Thanks James...I can tell you've done a lot of research in this area so your "two cents worth" is valuable. If DHEA converts into what your body needs (and I don't know exactly what that is) then I guess it makes sense for me to start with the DHEA cubes. I'm wondering how you determined that the estiole 1x cubes were right for your wife as opposed to the estriole 2x or DHEA cubes. Did she have tests done or has it just been trial and error?
Medications
Posted by James (Colorado) on 07/16/2015
My wife uses the Bezwecken Hydration 1x estriol cubes as if they're suppositories. Have you tried that? You probably know this, but DHEA is a precursor to estriol, and progesterone, etc. So, you give your body DHEA and it converts it into whatever it thinks it needs. Not sure why you feel you need both. It may be too much. (I'm no doctor, but from my reading, just my 2 cents.)
Medications
Posted by Lee (Toronto) on 07/16/2015
Has anyone tried using the Bezwecken Hydration 1x estriol cubes in conjunction with vaginal insertion of their DHEA cubes?
I'm thinking of trying this as my vaginal atrophy is severe.....unable to have sex at all due to excruciating pain.
I had a major stroke at age 23 (cause undiagnosed but I was on birth control pills at the time) so I can't risk using a prescription estrogen based product. I'm just not sure if it's safe to take the estriol cubes as well as a quarter or half of a DHEA cube in tandem.
I'm deperate...any thoughts?
DHEA
Posted by Anna (Vancouver, Canada) on 07/15/2015
Karen, how long did it take for you to start noticing a difference after using the cubes? Secondly, do you take a break from it or use a half cube everyday?
I've noticed that many of the websites listed don't carry Bezwecken DHEA cubes anymore. I spoke with Linda at Healthy Supplements and they seem to be the only people who have the new formulation. Older branding means the product might be past it's prime. They seem to be the only people carrying the new one. I've got five packages on order and two sent to a friend as a birthday gift! Here's the website link. www.healthysupplmements.net
