Understanding Cancer & Vaginal Dryness

Understanding & Treatment

Symptoms &
Causes

Finding Relief

Resources

Understanding Cancer & Vaginal Dryness

Understanding & Treatment

Symptoms &
Causes

Finding relief

Resources


Can Cancer Treatment Cause Vaginal Dryness and Painful Intercourse?


Can cancer treatment cause vaginal dryness and painful intercourse?

Navigating Intimate Health after Breast Cancer and Gynecological Cancers

Vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy are two often-overlooked side effects of cancer treatment. A drop in estrogen levels is often the cause, which can make the vaginal tissues thin, shrink, and produce less natural lubrication.

 

This causes the vagina to feel dry, itchy, and sore and makes sexual intercourse uncomfortable or painful. While breast cancer and gynecological cancers are sometimes discussed alongside vaginal dryness, the treatment of any cancer can lead to uncomfortable symptoms of vaginal atrophy, vaginal dryness, and even atrophic vaginitis (explained further below) [1].  

Vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy are two often-overlooked side effects of cancer treatment. A drop in estrogen levels is often the cause, which can make the vaginal tissues thin, shrink, and produce less natural lubrication.

This causes the vagina to feel dry, itchy, and sore and makes sexual intercourse uncomfortable or painful. While breast cancer and gynecological cancers are sometimes discussed alongside vaginal dryness, the treatment of any cancer can lead to uncomfortable symptoms of vaginal atrophy, vaginal dryness, and even atrophic vaginitis (explained further below) [1].  

Cancer and Vaginal Dryness: The Data


Cancer and Vaginal Dryness: The Data

What Cancer Treatments Can Cause Vaginal Dryness and Why Does This Happen?

What cancer treatments can cause vaginal dryness and why does this happen?

Chemotherapy can shut down the ovaries, either temporarily or permanently. This results in lower estrogen and progesterone levels and is likely to cause symptoms such as hot flashes, irregular or no periods, and vaginal dryness or the more severe vaginal atrophy. These symptoms can affect your sex life as well as your general comfort and vaginal health.

 

Hormone therapy for Estrogen Receptor Positive breast cancer (ER Positive), such as Tamoxifen, or Aromatase Inhibitors, Letrozole or Anastrozole which affect the production of estrogen or block estrogen receptors, can also lead to hot flashes, irregular or no periods, and vaginal dryness or atrophy. 

 

Total hysterectomy for womb, ovarian or cervical cancer, when the ovaries, womb, fallopian tubes, and cervix are removed will also lead to the loss of estrogen and the accompanying symptoms as for Chemotherapy and Hormone Therapy. 

 

Pelvic radiotherapy can bring on early menopause resulting in lowered estrogen levels. These changes in hormones can result in a myriad of uncomfortable symptoms including; vaginal dryness, vaginal atrophy, itching, burning and pain during sex. [2] For some gynecological cancers, internal brachytherapy may be used, and this can also affect the pelvic organs including the vagina.  

For more information on the effects of pelvic radiation therapy, follow this link.    

 

Chemotherapy can shut down the ovaries, either temporarily or permanently. This results in lower estrogen and progesterone levels and is likely to cause symptoms such as hot flashes, irregular or no periods, and vaginal dryness or the more severe vaginal atrophy.

 

These symptoms can affect your sex life as well as your general comfort and vaginal health.

 

Hormone therapy for Estrogen Receptor Positive breast cancer (ER Positive), such as Tamoxifen, or Aromatase Inhibitors, Letrozole or Anastrozole which affect the production of estrogen or block estrogen receptors, can also lead to hot flashes, irregular or no periods, and vaginal dryness or atrophy. 

 

Total hysterectomy for womb, ovarian or cervical cancer, when the ovaries, womb, fallopian tubes, and cervix are removed will also lead to the loss of estrogen and the accompanying symptoms as for Chemotherapy and Hormone Therapy. 

 

Pelvic radiotherapy can bring on early menopause resulting in lowered estrogen levels. These changes in hormones can result in a myriad of uncomfortable symptoms including; vaginal dryness, vaginal atrophy, itching, burning and pain during sex. [2] For some gynecological cancers, internal brachytherapy may be used, and this can also affect the pelvic organs including the vagina.  

For more information on the effects of pelvic radiation therapy, follow this link.    

 

Chemotherapy can shut down the ovaries, either temporarily or permanently. This results in lower estrogen and progesterone levels and is likely to cause symptoms such as hot flashes, irregular or no periods, and vaginal dryness or the more severe vaginal atrophy. These symptoms can affect your sex life as well as your general comfort and vaginal health.

 

Hormone therapy for Estrogen Receptor Positive breast cancer (ER Positive), such as Tamoxifen, or Aromatase Inhibitors, Letrozole or Anastrozole which affect the production of estrogen or block estrogen receptors, can also lead to hot flashes, irregular or no periods, and vaginal dryness or atrophy. 

 

Total hysterectomy for womb, ovarian or cervical cancer, when the ovaries, womb, fallopian tubes, and cervix are removed will also lead to the loss of estrogen and the accompanying symptoms as for Chemotherapy and Hormone Therapy. 

 

Pelvic radiotherapy can bring on early menopause resulting in lowered estrogen levels. These changes in hormones can result in a myriad of uncomfortable symptoms including; vaginal dryness, vaginal atrophy, itching, burning and pain during sex. [2] For some gynecological cancers, internal brachytherapy may be used, and this can also affect the pelvic organs including the vagina.  

For more information on the effects of pelvic radiation therapy, follow this link.    

References: 

[1] National Library of Medicine  [2] Cancer.gov 

Soothe Vaginal Dryness After Cancer treatment

Recent studies on managing estrogen deficiency symptoms in women treated for breast cancer advise that the first-line treatment for vaginal dryness should be a vaginal moisturizer or lubricant. This should be offered to patients before any other treatments are considered. Studies also suggest that the moisturizer or lubricant given should not contain parabens due to their weak estrogenic activity [1] [2].  

If you are suffering from vaginal dryness after cancer, we recommend looking for remedies that offer superior performance without compromising the purity of their ingredients. Remedies that will nourish and rehydrate dry vaginal tissues and give a luxurious non-sticky feel and glide during sex while being safe for hormone-sensitive conditions. 

 

Certified organic and natural AH! YES® VM Vaginal Moisturizer and AH! YES® WB water-based lubricant have the dual function of deep rehydration and outstanding lubrication.  

 

AH! YES® natural intimate lubricants and moisturizers have become a valued addition to the survivorship program, supporting sexual well-being in women who have had treatment for cancer. When radiotherapy, chemotherapy or surgery have affected sexual function and have caused the distress and discomfort of vaginal dryness, it is vital that the purest possible non-hormonal solution is offered. 

[1] National Library of Medicine  [2] The Journal of The North American Menopause Society 

Soothe Vaginal Dryness After Cancer treatment

Recent studies on managing estrogen deficiency symptoms in women treated for breast cancer advise that the first-line treatment for vaginal dryness should be a vaginal moisturizer or lubricant. This should be offered to patients before any other treatments are considered. Studies also suggest that the moisturizer or lubricant given should not contain parabens due to their weak estrogenic activity [1] [2].  

If you are suffering from vaginal dryness after cancer, we recommend looking for remedies that offer superior performance without compromising the purity of their ingredients. Remedies that will nourish and rehydrate dry vaginal tissues and give a luxurious non-sticky feel and glide during sex while being safe for hormone-sensitive conditions. 

 

Certified organic and natural AH! YES® VM Vaginal Moisturizer and AH! YES® WB water-based lubricant have the dual function of deep rehydration and outstanding lubrication.  

 

AH! YES® natural intimate lubricants and moisturizers have become a valued addition to the survivorship program, supporting sexual well-being in women who have had treatment for cancer. When radiotherapy, chemotherapy or surgery have affected sexual function and have caused the distress and discomfort of vaginal dryness, it is vital that the purest possible non-hormonal solution is offered. 

[1] National Library of Medicine  [2] The Journal of The North American Menopause Society 

Soothe Vaginal Dryness after Cancer Treatment

Recent studies on managing estrogen deficiency symptoms in women treated for breast cancer advise that the first-line treatment for vaginal dryness should be a vaginal moisturizer or lubricant. This should be offered to patients before any other treatments are considered. Studies also suggest that the moisturizer or lubricant given should not contain parabens due to their weak estrogenic activity [1] [2].  

If you are suffering from vaginal dryness after cancer, we recommend looking for remedies that offer superior performance without compromising the purity of their ingredients. Remedies that will nourish and rehydrate dry vaginal tissues and give a luxurious non-sticky feel and glide during sex while being safe for hormone-sensitive conditions. 

 

[1] National Library of Medicine  [2] The Journal of The North American Menopause Society 

Related Blogs

Guest Blog: Let’s talk about sex after cancer with Liz O'Riordan

Blog: Will I still go through menopause after hysterectomy?  

Blog: Should I clean my vulva and vagina?

Guest Blog: Let’s talk about sex after cancer with Liz O'Riordan

Blog: Will I still go through menopause after hysterectomy?  

Blog: Should I clean my vulva and vagina?

AH! YES® intimate health products are certified organic, free from hormones and all known skin irritants.  

AH! YES® intimate health products are certified organic, free from hormones and all known skin irritants.  

AH! YES® WB water-based personal lubricant

    • Provides fast-acting hydration and lubrication for intercourse.

    • Intensely hydrating for dry intimate tissues.  
    • pH matched to restore heathy vaginal pH.
    • AH! YES® WB water-based lubricant is ideal for providing comfort during intercourse. Available in tubes and/or packs of single-use applicators.  

     

AH! YES® VM Vaginal Moisturizer for everyday use

  • Quickly re-hydrates dry intimate tissue for up to three days.  

    • Releases moisture when and where your body needs it  

    • pH matched to restore heathy vaginal pH.  

    • AH! YES® VM vaginal moisturizer is for women suffering from moderate to severe vaginal dryness or atrophy and should be used regularly over a long period of time.

    • Cases of severe dryness will benefit from more frequent use (1 applicator or 5ml every 1-2 days).

AH! YES® OB plant oil-based personal lubricant for intimacy and use with vaginal dilators

    • Deeply nourishing for dry tissues.

      • Robust and protective emollient, providing a protective layer over the skin.

       

AH! YES® moisturizers and lubricants have undergone FDA review and are cleared under the 510k process as Class II medical devices. 

AH! YES® moisturizers and lubricants have undergone FDA review and are cleared under the 510k process as Class II medical devices. 

Atrophic Vaginitis explained

Atrophic Vaginitis is a condition in which the lining of your vagina becomes drier and thinner due to a decrease in estrogen. Common symptoms include burning sensations, itching, spotting, and discomfort during sexual activity. Additionally, you might experience frequent urination and urinary tract infections. The severity of these symptoms can vary.  

Atrophic Vaginitis Explained

Atrophic Vaginitis Explained

Atrophic Vaginitis is a condition in which the lining of your vagina becomes drier and thinner due to a decrease in estrogen. Common symptoms include burning sensations, itching, spotting, and discomfort during urinary tract infections. The severity of these symptoms can vary.  

Atrophic Vaginitis Explained

Atrophic Vaginitis is a condition in which the lining of your vagina becomes drier and thinner due to a decrease in estrogen. Common symptoms include burning sensations, itching, spotting, and discomfort during sexual activity. Additionally, you might experience frequent urination and urinary tract infections. The severity of these symptoms can vary.  


Common signs of

Atrophic vaginitis

 

  • Shortening and tightening of the vaginal canal. 

  • Lack of vaginal moisture (vaginal dryness).  

  • Vaginal burning (inflammation).  

  • Spotting of blood after intercourse (always see your healthcare professional for advice if this occurs).  

  • Discomfort or pain during intercourse (regular sexual activity helps to keep vaginal tissues healthy).  

  • Pain or burning with urination.  

  • More frequent urinary tract infections.  

  • Urinary incontinence (involuntary leakage).  

  • Urinary frequency. 

  • Thinning of the vaginal walls occasionally resulting in the walls adhering which can cause tears.

 


Common Signs of

Atrophic Vaginitis

 

  • Shortening and tightening of the vaginal canal. 

  • Lack of vaginal moisture (vaginal dryness).  

  • Vaginal burning (inflammation).  

  • Spotting of blood after intercourse (always see your healthcare professional for advice if this occurs).  

  • Discomfort or pain during intercourse (regular sexual activity helps to keep vaginal tissues healthy).  

  • Pain or burning with urination.  

  • More frequent urinary tract infections.  

  • Urinary incontinence (involuntary leakage).  

  • Urinary frequency. 

  • Thinnig of the vaginal walls occasionally resulting in the walls ashering which can cause tears.

 

Why do customers choose AH! YES® to manage vaginal dryness?

  • All AH! YES® products are certified organic by a third-party certifier, the Soil Association, and they are guaranteed pure and natural. Our products have undergone rigorous testing and have a series of certifications to support our claims.  

  • AH! YES® WB & AH! YES® VM are both pH matched to the vagina to restore and maintain the typical, slightly acidic, vaginal environment.  

  • AH! YES® WB & VM are recommended by a wide range of healthcare professionals.  

  • All products are designed to be side-effect free. 

  • No concerning ingredients including parabens, glycerin, sugars, petrochemicals (such as parabens, glycols) and l-arginine. 

  • No Silicone. 

Why do customers choose AH! YES® to manage vaginal dryness?

Why do customers choose AH! YES® to manage vaginal dryness?

  • All AH! YES® products are certified organic by a third-party certifier, the Soil Association, and they are guaranteed pure and natural. Our products have undergone rigorous testing and have a series of certifications to support our claims.  

  • AH! YES® WB & AH! YES® VM are both pH matched to the vagina to restore and maintain the typical, slightly acidic, vaginal environment.  

  • AH! YES® WB & VM are recommended by a wide range of healthcare professionals.  

  • All products are designed to be side-effect free. 

  • No concerning ingredients including parabens, glycerin, sugars, petrochemicals (such as parabens, glycols) and l-arginine. 

  • No Silicone. 

Why do customers choose AH! YES® to manage vaginal dryness?

  • All AH! YES® products are certified organic by a third-party certifier, the Soil Association, and they are guaranteed pure and natural. Our products have undergone rigorous testing and have a series of certifications to support our claims.  

  • AH! YES® WB & AH! YES® VM are both pH matched to the vagina to restore and maintain the typical, slightly acidic, vaginal environment.  

  • AH! YES® WB & VM are recommended by a wide range of healthcare professionals.  

  • All products are designed to be side-effect free. 

  • No concerning ingredients including parabens, glycerin, sugars, petrochemicals (such as parabens, glycols) and l-arginine. 

  • No Silicone. 

Choosing between AH! YES® WB & AH! YES® VM

ARE YOU EXPERIENCING: AH!YES® WB AH!YES® VM COMMENTS

Intercourse dryness

Use for intercourse

Painful intercourse

Use before and during

intercourse

Intermittent vaginal atrophy

Use for comfort and

intercourse

Vaginal atrophy

Use daily initially, then every 3

days as symptoms impove

Itching, burning from the

dryness

As needed to alleviate itching

and burning

Atrophic Vaginitis 

Use daily initially, then every 3

days as symptoms impove

Short-term bouts of

Vaginal dryness

Use for comfort and intercourse

Long-term requirements for

Vaginal moistuizer 

Use daily initially, then every 3

days as symptoms impove

Persistent, long term Dyspareunia 

Use daily initially, then every 3

days as symptoms impove
ARE YOU EXPERIENCING: AH!YES® WB AH!YES® VM COMMENTS

Intercourse dryness

Use for intercourse

Painful sex

Use before and during

intercourse

Intermittent vaginal atrophy

Use for comfort and

intercourse

Vaginal atrophy

Use daily initially, then every 3

days as symptoms impove

Itching, burning from the

dryness

As needed to alleviate itching

and burning

Atrophic Vaginitis 

Use daily initially, then every 3

days as symptoms impove

Short-term bouts of

Vaginal dryness

Use for comfort and intercourse

Long-term requirements for

Vaginal moituizer 

Use daily initially, then every 3

days as symptoms impove

Persistent, long term Dyspareunia 

Use daily initially, then every 3

days as symptoms impove

What are the benefits of choosing VM® & WB® to manage vaginal dryness naturally?

  • Quickly resolves and soothes the symptoms of vaginal dryness, such as itching, dryness, burning, and soreness. 

    • Effectively moisturizes dry, irritated vaginal tissues. 

    • Our water-based products have a familiar feel and texture, indistinguishable from your own natural lubrication. 
    • Our water-based products restore typical vaginal pH. Healthy vaginal pH helps to protect your body from opportunistic infections such as Thrush outbreaks. 
    • Enhances intimacy and sensitivity irrespective of natural lubrication levels. 

What are the benefits of choosing VM® & WB® to manage vaginal dryness naturally?

  • Quickly resolves and soothes the symptoms of vaginal dryness, such as itching, dryness, burning, and soreness. 

    • Effectively moisturizes dry, irritated vaginal tissues. 

    • Our water-based products have a familiar feel and texture, indistinguishable from your own natural lubrication. 
    • Our water-based products restore typical vaginal pH. Healthy vaginal pH helps to protect your body from opportunistic infections such as Thrush outbreaks. 
    • Enhances intimacy and sensitivity irrespective of natural lubrication levels. 

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