What it is
Vaginal lubricants are non-hormonal gels or liquids applied at the time of sex to reduce friction, discomfort, and pain caused by vaginal dryness. Unlike vaginal moisturizers, which are used on a regular schedule two to three times a week to reduce daily symptoms, lubricants are used with sexual activity. Inadequate vaginal lubrication is a common symptom of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), which results from estrogen deficiency. Common formulations are water-based, silicone-based, and oil-based. They are available over the counter without a prescription.
How well it works
A 2023 open-label randomized trial (Palacios et al.; n=174) tested five water-based lubricants over 4 weeks and found that all met the primary endpoint of at least a 4-point improvement in the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), with statistically significant improvement across all six FSFI domains (P<.0001 for lubrication and pain reduction; P<.05 for the other domains). A second randomized trial (Krychman et al., 2025; n=66) of one water-based and one silicone-based lubricant with sensate (tingling or warming) ingredients found that both met the same endpoint. Neither trial had a placebo or no-treatment arm, and the 2023 authors note that the open-label design may have introduced bias.
The NAMS 2020 GSM position statement lists nonhormone lubricants with sexual activity and regular use of long-acting vaginal moisturizers as first-line therapies for GSM, noting that nonprescription therapies provide sufficient relief for most women with mild symptoms. For moderate to severe GSM, prescription options such as vaginal estrogen, vaginal DHEA, or ospemifene are recommended.
Side effects and cautions
There are no published reports on the irritation potential of over-the-counter vaginal lubricants and moisturizers, so NAMS suggests testing a product on a small patch of skin for 24 hours before using it in the vagina. If it still causes irritation, you can switch to an iso-osmolar, propylene glycol-free, or silicone-based product. Some water-based lubricants are hyperosmolar, which damaged epithelial cells in laboratory studies; the World Health Organization recommends an osmolarity of less than 1,200 mOsm/kg. Oil-based lubricants can erode condoms, but most water-based and silicone-based lubricants are latex safe and condom compatible.
Where to get it
Vaginal lubricants are available over the counter and online without a prescription. They do not require a doctor’s visit, though a healthcare provider can help determine whether your symptoms warrant prescription treatment instead. Check our provider directory for clinics near you.
