Hi Sh!
I developed vaginal atrophy last summer. My vagina was very dry with red blood vessels and pain inside and around the urethra. A gynecologist diagnosed atrophy and put me on Estriol 0.01%. I've been on Estriol cream since then, and it feels better and not so swollen inside - just a bit dry. My period stopped in 2022 (I'll be 56 this year).
A specialist nurse recently told me I only have a teeny-tiny red dot left by the urethra. I started on Replens vaginal moisturizer to help soothe the area. I haven't been sexually active for several years (I have no partner), but I do want to get married.
Can you please advise on the best and most slippery lube? Something for sensitive women as I can get thrush - I'm sensitive down there. I also want a dildo to help keep my vagina healthy and ready for a partner.
I hope this is enough details and hope to hear from you soon! xx
Hello Lovely,
Thank you for getting in touch! We're sorry you've had such an awful time with vaginal dryness, atrophy and pain.
Best Lube For Vaginal Dryness
It’s great that you’re exploring the best options for your body - finding the right fit can make all the difference in comfort and pleasure.
Silicone-based lube is fantastic for long-lasting, silky-smooth glide, but given your tendency toward thrush, we'd advice caution. While it provides long-lasting slipperiness, it doesn’t wash away easily with just water - it requires soap, which we know isn’t ideal for the delicate vaginal environment. Using soap inside the vagina can disrupt its natural pH balance, leading to discomfort or infections. Additionally, because silicone-based lube clings to the vaginal walls, it can trap bacteria and further upset the pH balance, which increases the risk of issues like thrush. If you're prone to thrush, a water-based lube is a more body-friendly option.
Water-based lube is much gentler on the body and a great all-around option. While it does absorb into the skin, a little water or saliva can easily reactivate it. This keeps things comfortable without the need to constantly reapply.
Sliquid is a range of water-based lubes that are paraben and glycerine-free. These lubes are suitable for all types of pleasure - solo, partnered, oral, vaginal, anal, hand jobs...
An extra-thick lube can be helpful for atrophy, as dryness and pain tends to be an issue alongside vaginal shrinkage. Sliquid Tsunami maintains a pH range of 4.1-4.4 to avoid disruption of the sensitive vaginal flora. The formula is infused with Carrageenan, a plant-based seaweed extract known for its skin-soothing properties. The formula is extra viscous and creates a layer of 'padding' between the skin and the finger/toy/penis, making sex more comfortable.
Best Silicone Dildo For Vaginal Atrophy
We don't know if you have a specific gentleman in mind for future fun, but it's worth remembering that men & their penises come in all sizes. There is no need to go bigger than necessary if you are prepping for vaginal intercourse. It's better to start small and build up in size, especially if you haven't been sexually active for a while. Atrophy causes the vagina to shrink, and you might find that penetration has become painful. Lots of lube and taking your time will help with this.
We measure dildos in "fingers" (1 / 1.5 / 2 /2.5, and so on) to make it easier to gauge sizes. We don't know how many fingers you are comfortable with, but 1.5-2 fingers could be a good start.
Cupid 2 is a small silicone dildo. It's firm enough to do its thang, but still has some flexibility. The tip curves upwards to stimulate the G-spot if this is an erogenous zone you'd like to explore.
Silicone is a hypoallergenic and non-porous material. It should not cause thrush as long as it's cleaned carefully before and after use. Using water-based lube with your dildo ensures sexy slipperiness and comfortable play.
We hope this helps - and good luck!
Best Wishes,
Team Sh! xx
