I'm menopausal with dryness during sex. Any non HRT product recommended?

Q. I have vaginal dryness and bleeding during intercourse. I'm in menopause, cannot take HRT because I am a breast cancer survivor. What do you recommend?

A. Vaginal dryness and bleeding during intercourse is very common among menopausal women. Here are some products I would recommend you try:

• Vitamin A and Vitamin E Suppositories by Wise Women Herbals - These are two different suppositories (with different links), but used together at bedtime, the Vitamin A can help restore damaged vaginal tissue and the Vitamin E can help vaginal dryness. I would recommend the 10 suppository packs. Use 1 each per night for 5 nights, then break for a couple of weeks before repeating.
• Natural Lubricant with Vitamin E by Emerita - this is a gentle daily lubricant, I would recommend this one as a first choice above the other one I've listed below. I just thought this other one may be something you would want to try to see if one works better over the other.
• Personal Lubricant w/ Aloe by Emerita - Application is intended for vaginal use. Do not apply to broken or damaged skin, so you might wait to use this until you use your first round of suppositories. If irritation occurs, discontinue use. You can use this during intercourse to help lubricate or as a daily lubricant.

Additionally, you might also want to review our section on helpful products during menopause. Below the list of products, there is also a bit of information about menopause.