Vaginal Dryness
Natural Remedies

  1. Home
  2. Ailments

Natural Cures for Vaginal Dryness

| Modified on Oct 28, 2023
Add New Post Comments

If you are suffering with atrophic vaginitis, you know the issue is sensitive and requires specific treatment. This condition is one that can have a major impact on your quality of life, which is one of the major reasons we’ve done our research to find effective natural cures for you. Some of the most effective treatments include coconut oil, olive oil, and vitamin E.

What Is Atrophic Vaginitis?

Atrophic vaginitis, also known as vaginal atrophy, is a condition that involves the thinning, drying, and swelling of the vaginal walls. The condition typically occurs after menopause; however, some women experience the condition during breast-feeding or at any other time your body’s estrogen production decreases.

Atrophic vaginitis can range in severity from moderate to severe. Depending on the severity, you’ll experience different symptoms. Nonetheless, vaginal dryness, burning, discharge, genital itching, burning during urination, frequent urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence, bleeding after intercourse, and discomfort during intercourse are common. Additionally, decreased vaginal lubrication during sexual activity as well as shortening and tightening of the vaginal canal are common.

What Causes Vaginal Atrophy?

The underlying cause of vaginal atrophy is a decrease in estrogen production. As your body produces less estrogen, your vaginal tissues become thinner, drier, less elastic, and more fragile. A decrease in estrogen production often occurs after menopause, in the years leading up to menopause, during breast-feeding, after surgical removal of the ovaries, following pelvic radiation therapy or chemotherapy for cancer, or as a side effect of hormonal treatment for breast cancer.

Can I Treat Atrophic Vaginitis Naturally?

While you should seek out a qualified medical professional to best diagnose and manage your condition, you can take steps to treat atrophic vaginitis naturally as well. Options such as coconut oil, olive oil, and vitamin E oil help lubricate and rehydrate the vaginal walls while herbs with phytoestrogens, such as fenugreek and fennel, help restore the natural levels of estrogen in the body.

1. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a healthy fat that helps restore the body’s natural level of hydration. This treatment can be used as a lubricant or supplement to treat your condition.

2. Vitamin E Oil

Vitamin E also helps restore the natural balance in the system. It helps lubricate the vaginal walls and reduce sensitivity as well as inflammation.

3. Fenugreek

Fenugreek is especially effective but should not be used by pregnant women or those who have had hormone-related breast cancer. This treatment helps restore the levels of estrogen in the body and relieves the condition naturally.

Atrophic vaginitis is not just something you should ignore. Try one of our suggested treatment options or search our database below of reader-contributed options and let us know what worked for you!

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.
Sort by Default New Loved

Baking Soda

3 User Reviews
5 star (2) 
  67%
1 star (1) 
  33%
Write a review
Posted by Gr0m1t (Magnetic Island, Queensland, Australia) on 11/25/2012
 ★★★★★

Douching with Bicarb of Soda may be a remedy for vaginal dryness.

I heard about someone who cured herself of cervical cancer by douching with bicarbonate of soda solution for 20 mins daily. As I was having problems getting a PAP smear because of vaginal atropy, I started douching with bi-carb. I didn't do the whole 20 mins, just douched. Within a couple of weeks, I was able to have a smear test with no problem and it continued to improve with the douching.

I am a sample of one, so there are no guarantees. Would be interested in others' experiences.

Replied by Cath
(Mass)
11/19/2014

Question: what is the ratio of bicarb of soda to water? i'd like to try this out, thanks.

Replied by Avia
(Israel)
01/26/2015
★★★★★

I am 65 suffering terribly of Atrophic vaginitis. I tried douching with Soda Bicarbonate and it works!!! After 5 days the symptoms diminished slowly. Thank you for your advice.

Replied by Magpearl
(Yucca Valley, CA)
02/01/2015

Just wondering what is the ratio between the baking soda to water for the douching protocol? I'd like to give it a try as well. Thanks

Replied by Justasec
(Wi., US)
04/11/2015

Looking for answers to this same question. What is the ration to use for this bicarbornate of soda solution as well. Anyone figure this out yet?

Replied by F
(85132)
11/18/2015

I've read many times that we should never douche because it could push bacteria where it shouldn't be.

Replied by Misty
(In)
07/25/2016
★☆☆☆☆

Baking soda will negatively affect vaginal pH. The vagina should be an acidic environment. Baking soda will make the vagina more alkaline, making it a great breeding ground for bacteria and yeast.

Coconut Oil

3 User Reviews
5 star (2) 
  67%
3 star (1) 
  33%
Write a review
Posted by Tina (Virginia) on 08/23/2016
 ★★★★★

Atrophic Vaginitis - Coconut oil! I am 56 and have had atrophy issues x 5 months. Used Estrace and ended up with growing fibroids in my uterus again. Stopped that and for five weeks now, been using straight coconut oil for dryness and tearing; I slather it on twice weekly at bedtime with cotton underpants. It works wonders! I've shared this with my holistic OBGYN and she's amazed. Every woman is different, but it's worth giving it a try instead of meds and cost. Estrace is so expensive ($257 a tube average) and estrogen can cause issues (light breakthrough bleeding and headaches, cramping-like being a teen again with all the bad period symptoms) you don't want to repeat. It also works well when my husband and I have sex. Who cares about mess then? Have fun!

Coconut Oil
Posted by Magee (San Mateo, Ca, Us) on 02/04/2010
 ★★★☆☆

WORKED TEMPORARILY

Coconut Oil helps my vaginal dryness problem. I use it as a lubricant for intercourse. It works great for that as a temporary solution. I like using it, because it's easily applied as a solid but melts with contact. Safe, odorless, nice and soft, not runny or goopy like some commercial products. Plus I know I'm not using any weird chemicals. And a small amount goes a long way. But, it doesn't provide any permanent solution in the strengthening of the skin. I wish it did. I still have problems with occasional tearing other times.

Replied by Nan
(Tulsa, Ok)
11/16/2010
★★★★★

Per Magee's recommendation, I tried the Coconut Oil for vaginal dryness problem during intercourse. It is a great relief to the increasing discomfort (pain) I was having, and my husband and I are most happy about it. Coconut Oil has a lovely fragrance and the solid does dissolve into a nice light oil which feels great on the skin especially on delicate tissue. Thank you EC for providing a great service. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Replied by Gert
(Anon)
04/21/2013

As a lube for sex, I take some coconut oil in a measuring spoon (maybe a 1/4 tsp measure) and put it in the fridge to get good and solid, then use it like a vaginal suppository. Easy to get far up inside, then melts and coats everything. Too much can get kind of messy on the bedding.

Replied by Georgia
(Tx, US)
02/08/2015

Anyone come up with permanent solution to tearing?

Replied by Liz
(Norway)
09/13/2017

Try collagen supplements.

Coconut Oil, Vitamin E, Tea Tree Oil Suppositories

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%
Write a review
Posted by Lilli (Wa) on 08/07/2017 13 posts
 ★★★★★

I have found that the best remedy for vaginal dryness, tearing, or achiness is coconut oil suppositories.

I make my own using about a tablespoon of virgin, organic, cold expeller pressed coconut oil, a 400 IU vitamin E capsule, and a drop of tea tree oil. I mix all ingredients together (empty the vitamin E capsule) then refrigerate for a few minutes until the coconut oil has hardened a bit and can be formed. Form the suppositories by using plastic wrap. Place about a 1/4 tsp. of the mixture in a small piece of plastic wrap and gently roll it until you get the thickness and desired shape, then twist the ends of the plastic wrap. I place several in the refrigerator for future use. Insert them as you would a tampon. They have done a wonderful job of healing internal dryness and tearing. I use them as rectal suppositories too.

One tip: use panty liners, because the oil will stain clothing and bedding.

Another thing that helps the achiness is a ice bag filled with warm water placed over the affected areas, especially before bedtime. It takes about 5 days to feel relief.

Replied by Carol
(Ca)
03/21/2018

How often do you insert them? How long did you have to use them? Do you also use coconut oil as a lubricant during intimacy?

Damiana Herb

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%
Write a review
Posted by Molly (Baltimore) on 04/24/2014
 ★★★★★

Hi Ladies,

I am nearly 50 and seem to be approaching menopause. My periods are spacing out. I have had an increase in vaginal irritation over the last several months. At first, I thought I was having trouble with reoccurring bladder infections or yeast infections (which I “treated” with natural methods), but over time noticed a sensation that could be described as either itching or burning in the vaginal area. It was becoming more uncomfortable and the feeling was like that of wearing too tight jeans, even though I was wearing lose fitting clothing. Looking here at Earth Clinic, I realized that I am probably dealing with vaginal atrophy or vaginal dryness due to menopause (Maybe it is the same thing?). Since I had some in the house, the first thing I tried was the herb, Damiana, since it increases blood flow to the reproductive organs. I took one capsule morning and evening. It actually worked! If I forgot to take it, the burning would return. Taking a Damiana capsule would help it to resolve in an hour or less. My symptoms are not as severe as some I have read here. It does not keep me awake, though I would notice it more at night. Well, since Damina was working, I decided I must need “more.” So I started to take some Black Coshosh, which is also good for menopause. Probably I should have left well enough alone. That seems to have made my period last longer, so I am quitting that. For the record, Damiana is not recommended for pregnancy, not that most ladies at 50 are too concerned about that, but if some younger ladies try this for the same symptoms, they should be aware. All your stories are so helpful I thought I would pass along mine. Molly

Damiana, Sarsparilla, Don Quai, Black Cohosh

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%
Write a review
Posted by Skullgirl (Upland, Calif) on 08/04/2016
 ★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Never having to go thru menopause because I had the entire plumbing removed at age 24. But, always taking natural hormones/estrogen: Damiana, Sarsparilla, Don Quai, Black Cohosh (works for me 100%) and Siberan Ginseng helps body to absorb.

Daily dosage is 2 pills ea. It depends on the person as to the mg you take. I began with 50mg ea - and am up to 500mg ea. I am well over 65 and just began 4 wks ago Atrophic vaginitis, saw my medical doctor and, she being from both worlds of Asian and American medicine, agreed with me that the homeopathic remedies I use are GOOD. I can't take animal estrogen/progesterone the drugs that medical doctors prescribe. But the 4 herbs above have always worked for me 100%. Since the dryness just began, I doubled up on the pills (once I knew what the problem was) and I also take a medicinal tea for deep vein thrombosis/blood clots keeps it away since 1984. In it are also the hormones I drink this 3 times a day - it is all helping me.

Topical: I am using Vit E Oil, Tea Tree Oil: same amt of both. I use a glass jar to mix and keep it tightly stored in cool area. OR in frig if you want topical coolent used. Can use Coconut oil (keep this in fridge as well) Medical doctor told me AWESOME remedies. because they HEAL the area. I did try the cream she suggested Vagisil it burned a LOT and was the sensitive cream. Took at least 20min to take effect and doesn't heal. Does lubricate the walls and hood. that's all. Going back to my own remedies work to heal the area - and lubricate. I have NOT tried baking soda. This remedy works better.

Replied by Wendy
(New Zealand)
08/10/2016

Hi there. I have found this all very interesting, thank you. What is the medicinal tea you use?

Replied by Laura
(Florida)
08/10/2016

To clarify you are using only herbs supplements for vaginal atrophy. Can you send me.more info, sounds wonderful.. Thanks

Replied by Eunice
(Saskatoon, Sk Canada)
10/27/2016

Thanks so much for this information. I have had atrophic vaginitis for a year and a half. I haven't found anything that really works. I have tried just about everything. All the creams or oils I've tried just burn or if they do work it's only for a couple of days. Sitting is just aweful. I was on Indole 3 Carbinol and DIM and also a progesterone cream. It seemed to be manageable. I ran out of both so I wanted to see if the severity would come back. It did. I now have a new supply of I3C and DIM. I've tried every douche possible. My doctor said not to douche, it upsets the ph balance in the vagina. Has anyone tried hormone testing? That was next to try. I will certainly give the herbs you've used a try. Can't hurt. Hope it helps. I just want this to go away.

Iodine

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%
Write a review
Posted by Cj (Portland ) on 11/11/2022
 ★★★★★

After taking high-dose iodine like 100 mg a day for a few months I no longer needed to take the slippery elm for vaginal dryness which works awesome ladies .....the iodine has given me balanced hormones improved health and my vagina feels like I'm 20 again!

Sea Buckhorn Oil

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%
Write a review
Posted by Sarnrse (Houston, Texas ) on 12/31/2020
 ★★★★★

Sea Buckhorn Oil -

You can also get liquid Sea Buckhorn Oil. Google Sea Buckhorn Oil vaginal dryness for many articles/studies.

Sea Buckthorn Oil

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
  100%
Write a review
Posted by J (NC, USA ) on 08/11/2023
 ★★★★★

Sea Buckthorn (oil) capsule form

I just wanted to post how wonderful this natural remedy is! Having been thrown into menopause in my mid 30s due to depro vera injections (tell everyone not to use! ) And even tying tubes to get off it. Anyways...after experiencing all that comes with that I tried sea buckthorn for only 3 mos and can tell you that it worked amazingly well! No more dryness Caution may cause babies lol. Stopped mainly due to sexual inactivity and plan to buy more! Love it! Also I did get some relief with coconut oil but nothing in comparison to the sea buckthorn! I am 51 and took this for short time at age 49. I feel like the coconut oil was more like an external lube that helped some but didn't last where as the sea buckthorn acted as an internal lubricant. Noticeble difference to both parties 🙂. Knowing this was effective and in only a short time and esp loving that is a natural remedy I highly recommend to all having this issue!

Ps I came to this sight looking for other natural remedies and felt compelled to write review on this. Amazon sells Sea Buckthorn for around 30 bucks and last 3 mos.

Also I did try a vulva balm during this time. Hormone free as I insist on natural remedies from now on. I find them more effective and less damaging. I have no issues with the vulva balm used and cannot speak much to its efficacy. Much like the external coconut oil the vuvla balm seem to work the same. Once again I highly recommend Sea Buckthorn as it worked wonders with absolutely no side effects. It is my personal opinion that coconut oil and vulva balms prob are not necessary if taking Sea Buckthorn. I will purchase again! Also to boot I hear it is good for skin and ezcema suffers. The sea buckthorn is loaded with omega fatty acids having 3,6,7, and 9 in it.

It is unfortunate that I found castor oil this late in life. Though this review has nothing to do with castor oil I would like to mention that this oil is also truly a miracle! I have watched it do great things in my life and my daughter. I only wish I could have found sooner to help my mother that passed from imo HRT, radiation, and chemo. She had a very painful death of uterine cancer and I would have immediately applied castor oil to assist in detoxifying had I known! I'm looking into the baking soda and molasses theory currently for my knowledge on assisting any future issues that may occur in myself or other loved ones. I will continue to promote these 2 oils to anyone who will listen.

Health peace and happiness to all who read. I hope this helps!

Replied by Cindy
(Toronto)
10/28/2023

Hi, Did you take sea buckthorn in pill form or use topically? If in pill form what was your dosage?

Slippery Elm

2 User Reviews
5 star (2) 
  100%
Write a review
Posted by Dark Tragedy (a) on 01/22/2022
 ★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I've been struggling with vaginal dryness with perimenopause and Drs wouldn't do anything about it. It has been so bad that just wiping after going to the bathroom was irritating. I tried coconut oil, several herbal supplements, suppositories that were just too much and weren't consistent. I've researched on and off for years and was looking for something for intestinal inflammation and came across slippery elm and it mentioned vaginal dryness, so I thought why not.

Omg the best thing ever. Within a few days, I could tell the difference, within two weeks, it's like I was before I started having this problem. It's inexpensive, doesn't seem to have any negative side effects and has made a huge difference.

I used 1600 once a day (800 mg x 2), I just used the Swanson brand. I will definitely reorder. I can't believe what a difference it made.

Replied by Sheila
(CA)
02/22/2022
★★★★★

I also have found that Slippery Elm supplements taken daily really do help with vaginal dryness.


Advertisement

Please note that we use cookies necessary for the functioning of our website, cookies that optimize the performance. To learn more about our cookies, how we use them and their benefits, please read our Privacy Policy