To Lube or Not to Lube: Experiences and Perceptions of Lubricant Use in Women with and Without Dyspareunia

Abstract

Introduction There are few studies examining the relationship between lubricant use and sexual functioning, and no studies have examined this relationship in women with dyspareunia. Vaginal dryness is a prevalent complaint among women of all ages. There is an association between vaginal dryness and painful intercourse; therefore, women with dyspareunia represent a particularly relevant sample of women in which to investigate lubricant use. Aim The aim of this study was to examine differences between women with and without dyspareunia in self-reported natural lubrication and attitudes toward and use of personal lubricants. Methods Respondents completed an online survey including questions on demographics, gynecological/medical history, sexual functioning, and lubricant use and attitudes. Main Outcome Measures The main outcome measures used were the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and questions regarding attitudes toward and use of lubricants. Results Controls scored higher on the lubrication subscale of the FSFI than women with dyspareunia (P < 0.001). Women with dyspareunia reported greater frequency of lubricant use during sexual activity over the last year (P < 0.01). They were also more likely to use lubricant prior to penetration (P < 0.05). The most common use for controls was to enhance sexual experiences. This was also a common answer for women with dyspareunia; however, in this group, the most common reason was to reduce/alleviate pain. Lubricants were rated as less effective among women with dyspareunia vs. controls across all reported reasons for use. Nevertheless, lubricant use was still rated as being moderately effective in alleviating pain for women with dyspareunia. Conclusions Women with dyspareunia have more difficulty with natural lubrication; it is consequently not surprising that they reported using lubricant more frequently than control women. Women with dyspareunia reported using lubricants more often than controls to try to prevent or alleviate pain and reported this as being a moderately effective strategy, suggesting that it may be a useful tool for some women with dyspareunia.

Survivorship, Version 2.2017, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

“…Vaginal dryness can be treated with over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers, gels, oils, and topicals for comfort and topical vitamin D or E. 119,120 Lubricants can be used for sexual activity. 121,122 Local hormonal treatments can also be used, 101,123–127 although some controversy exists regarding their safety in survivors of hormone-dependent cancers.…”

“…Vaginal moisturizers and gels, oils, and topical vitamin D or E can help alleviate symptoms such as vaginal dryness and sexual pain, 120,207 although data on these over-the-counter products are limited in the general population. In one study of breast cancer survivors, the control group used a nonhormonal moisturizer and saw a transient improvement in vaginal symptoms.…”

Survivorship: Sexual Dysfunction (Female), Version 1.2013

“…33 In one study of breast cancer survivors, the control group used a nonhormonal moisturizer and saw a transient improvement in vaginal symptoms. 34 …”

The Acceptability, Feasibility, and Efficacy (Phase I/II Study) of the OVERcome (Olive Oil, Vaginal Exercise, and MoisturizeR) Intervention to Improve Dyspareunia and Alleviate Sexual Problems in Women with Breast Cancer

“…Vaginal lubricants are used to prevent dryness and dyspareunia during sexual activity [17,18]. Although water-based vaginal lubricants are commonly recommended, many contain preservatives that may aggravate sensitive vaginal mucosa [19,20].…”