9 Best Natural Remedies for Vaginal Dryness

If intimacy feels painful, or you notice persistent dryness, burning, or tightness “down there,” you’re not alone — and it’s not just “part of aging.” Vaginal dryness affects over 50% of postmenopausal women and can begin as early as perimenopause.

It’s more than just a physical issue — it impacts your confidence, emotional well-being, and relationships.

There are natural remedies for vaginal dryness that are safe, effective, and backed by science. From simple oils to hormone-supporting foods and pelvic floor exercises, you can find comfort and confidence again.

What Is Vaginal Dryness & Why It Happens

Vaginal dryness refers to the lack of natural lubrication in the vaginal walls. It can make everyday activities — and especially sex — uncomfortable.

In this blog, you’ll discover proven herbal treatments for vaginal dryness, gentle lubricants, estrogen-rich foods, and other holistic ways to support your intimate health naturally.

Common Causes

• Estrogen decline (menopause, perimenopause, breastfeeding)
• Certain medications (antihistamines, antidepressants, birth control)
• Stress and anxiety
• Douching
• Autoimmune disorders

Typical Symptoms

• Itching or burning in the vaginal area
• Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
• Vaginal tightness or tearing
• Light bleeding after sex
• Loss of libido
• Thinning of the vaginal tissues can cause to vaginal atrophy.

9 Natural Remedies for Vaginal Dryness

1. Vitamin E Suppositories

Research from PubMed suggests that a Vitamin E as alternative local treatment in genitourinary syndrome of menopause.

Vitamin E acts as a natural moisturizer and helps repair thin vaginal tissues.

How It Works:
Vitamin E supports tissue regeneration and acts as a natural moisturizer when applied vaginally.

• A 2016 clinical trial published in the Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research found that vitamin E suppositories significantly improved vaginal atrophy symptoms in postmenopausal women.
  Researchers observed that regular use of 100 IU vitamin E over 12 weeks helped enhance vaginal tissue health and moisture — making it a promising non-hormonal option for vaginal dryness relief.
  👉 Study Source – PubMed PMID: 27904630

How to Use:
Use intravaginal Vitamin E capsules (400 IU) 2–3 times per week.

Benefits:

• Rehydrates dry vaginal tissues
• Improves elasticity and comfort
• Hormone-free alternative to estrogen creams
• Well tolerated and easy to use

2. Coconut Oil

Cold-pressed coconut oil is a soothing natural lubricant.

How It Works:
Coconut oil is a natural lubricant that reduces friction and soothes inflamed vaginal tissues.

• A study titled “Virgin Coconut Oil in Paste Form as Treatment for Dyspareunia and Vaginal Dryness in Patients With and Without Rheumatic Autoimmune Diseases” found that virgin coconut oil may offer therapeutic relief from vaginal dryness and painful intercourse, even in women with underlying autoimmune conditions.
  👉 View Study on PubMed
• Coconut oil is one of the safest natural remedies for vaginal dryness, especially for postmenopausal women.

How to Use:
Use cold-pressed, organic coconut oil externally or internally before intercourse.

Benefits:

• Reduces friction during sex
• Moisturizes externally and internally
• Fights minor infections (antifungal/antibacterial)
• Gentle and non-toxic

⚠️ Avoid with latex condoms as it weakens them.

3. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera is deeply hydrating and calming for inflamed skin.

How It Works:
Aloe vera hydrates tissues, reduces inflammation, and encourages healing.

A 2020 clinical trial published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology confirmed that Aloe Vera vaginal cream can be as effective as estrogen vaginal cream in the management of vaginal atrophy in menopause females.
👉 View Study

How to Use:
Apply organic, preservative-free aloe vera gel externally. Avoid internal use unless specified.

Benefits:

• Soothes burning or itching
• Balances vaginal pH
• Reduces redness and swelling
• Can be used externally or with applicators (if pure)

4. Estrogen-Rich Foods

Plant-based estrogen (phytoestrogens) mimic the effects of estrogen in the body.

How It Works:
Certain foods contain phytoestrogens — plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body.

• A clinical study published on PubMed found that soy isoflavones enhanced vaginal cell maturation and moisture, offering measurable relief from postmenopausal dryness.
  👉 PubMed Study – 2019

Top Estrogen-Rich Foods:

• Flaxseeds
• Soy products (tofu, soy milk)
• Chickpeas
• Sesame seeds
• Dried apricots

Benefits:

• Supports hormone balance
• Helps restore natural lubrication
• Improves vaginal and bone health
• Supports mood and energy during menopause

Study more on impact of Phytoestrogen foods on vaginal dryness

5. Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegels)

Strengthening pelvic muscles can improve natural lubrication.

A clinical study published in Maturitas reported that 12 weeks of pelvic floor muscle training significantly reduced vaginal dryness and dyspareunia (painful intercourse) in postmenopausal women, enhancing their sexual quality of life.

Benefits:

• Enhances blood flow to vaginal tissues
• Stimulates moisture production
• Reduces incontinence
• Improves sexual pleasure

💡 Try 10 reps, 3 times daily. Contract like you’re stopping urine flow, hold 5 seconds, then release.

6. Gentle, Fragrance-Free Products

Products like scented soaps, douches, and feminine sprays can upset the delicate balance of vaginal tissues and make dryness worse. It’s best to stick with mild, fragrance-free options that are made for sensitive skin to keep things comfortable and irritation-free.

According to BreastCancer.org, fragrance-free vaginal moisturizers are recommended as a safe and effective way to relieve dryness, especially for women with sensitive skin or undergoing cancer treatment

Benefits:

• Prevents irritation and pH imbalance
• Reduces allergic reactions
• Maintains healthy vaginal flora
• Avoids unnecessary chemicals

Use only warm water or unscented mild cleansers.

7. Vaginal Health Supplements

How It Works:
Many supplements combine ingredients like Vitamin D, probiotics, and plant estrogens for complete vaginal support.

• According to Health.com, maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D has been linked to improved vaginal lubrication and overall vaginal health, particularly in individuals with vitamin D deficiency.

Top Ingredients to Look For:

• Probiotics (Lactobacillus)
• Vitamin D
• Evening primrose oil
• Red clover

Benefits:

• Supports vaginal flora and moisture
• Promotes long-term pH balance
• Convenient and effective
• Combats odor, infections, and dryness

💡 Consistency matters — combine remedies for best results.

8. Black Cohosh

How It Works:
Black cohosh is a herbal remedy often used for menopause symptoms. It may mimic estrogen-like effects.

• According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), black cohosh has been traditionally used to relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness.

How to Use:
Take 20–40mg capsules daily. Look for standardized extract.

Benefits:

• Mimics estrogen naturally
• Eases vaginal dryness
• Helps reduce hot flashes
• Supports hormonal balance
• Plant-based and non-hormonal
• Widely available in supplement form

9. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

How It Works:
Omega-3s help reduce inflammation and support healthy skin/mucosa, including vaginal lining.

• A study published on ScienceDirect found that fish oil supplementation positively influenced vaginal microbiome balance, suggesting potential benefits for vaginal health and moisture retention.

Sources:

• Fish oil supplements
• Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel)
• Chia seeds
• Walnuts

Benefits:

• Reduces vaginal tissue inflammation
• Improves skin and mucosal elasticity
• Supports natural moisture retention
• Eases menopause-related symptoms
• Boosts heart and brain health
• Plant and marine sources available

Most women don’t realize how effective natural remedies for vaginal dryness can be when used consistently and correctly

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using synthetic chemical lubricants daily (can worsen pH imbalance)
• Overusing a single remedy instead of combining
• Not consulting a doctor if symptoms worsen or persist
• Using products with added perfumes or parabens
• Neglecting pelvic floor health or vaginal exercises
• Relying solely on supplements without lifestyle changes
• Skipping hydration and diet while using natural remedies for vaginal dryness can slow your healing process and results.

When to Consult a Doctor or Medical Help

While natural remedies for vaginal dryness can offer effective relief, it’s crucial to recognize when the issue may require professional medical attention. If you’ve tried multiple natural remedies for vaginal dryness without success, a doctor can help you explore deeper hormonal causes.

Many women delay seeking help, hoping it will pass on its own. But untreated vaginal dryness — especially when linked to hormonal imbalances or underlying health conditions — can lead to long-term discomfort and complications like infections, painful sex (dyspareunia), and urinary issues.

Here are clear signs it’s time to consult a doctor:

Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore:

• Persistent or worsening dryness despite consistent natural treatment
• Bleeding during or after sex (without explanation)
• Severe burning, itching, or discharge
• Signs of urinary tract infections like burning during urination
• Painful intercourse that affects your mental or emotional health
• You’ve recently undergone cancer treatment (radiation, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy)
• You’ve been prescribed medications that reduce estrogen, like aromatase inhibitors
• You’re experiencing low libido, night sweats, or other menopause-related symptoms beyond dryness

Why Seeing a Doctor Matters:

• A gynecologist can assess whether you have atrophic vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, or another condition requiring targeted treatment.
• They can help determine if you’d benefit more from prescription estrogen therapy, vaginal rings, or low-dose estrogen creams.
• Some cases may need blood tests, pH tests, or pelvic exams to rule out infection or more serious issues.

Many women have reported tremendous relief after combining natural remedies with doctor-supervised care. Remember, your body deserves attention, compassion, and support.

You are not alone in this — and you’re not meant to suffer in silence. Speak up. Seek help. Healing is possible.

FAQ’s

1. What causes vaginal dryness?
   Mainly estrogen decline, but also stress, medications, or harsh soaps.
2. Can coconut oil treat vaginal dryness?
   Yes, it’s a natural, soothing lubricant — but not latex-compatible.
3. Are phytoestrogens safe for postmenopausal women?
   Yes, when consumed through whole foods like flax or soy.
4. Is aloe vera good for vaginal health?
   Yes, when pure and preservative-free. Avoid scented gels.
5. How do pelvic floor exercises help with dryness?
   They increase circulation, which boosts natural moisture.
6. Are Vitamin E suppositories safe?
   Generally yes — consult a doctor if you have sensitivities.
7. How long do natural remedies take to work?
   Some natural remedies for vaginal dryness like aloe vera or coconut oil may soothe within days, while others such as estrogen-rich foods or vaginal health supplements take 3–6 weeks for noticeable improvement. Consistency is key for lasting relief.
8. Can I use natural remedies with hormone therapy?
   Usually yes, but consult your doctor first.
9. Do supplements really work?
   Yes — many supplements are now included in top natural remedies for vaginal dryness because of their hormone-supportive and probiotic content.
10. Should I stop using soap down there?
    Yes — ditch scented products. Use only water or mild cleansers.

Also read best libido boosters here

Takeaway

Vaginal dryness is a common, treatable condition — but its impact often runs deeper than physical discomfort. It can affect how you feel in your body, how you connect with your partner, and how you show up in the world.

With the right approach, you can restore comfort, rebuild confidence, and feel like yourself again. These natural remedies for vaginal dryness are more than symptom management — they represent an opportunity to take back control, gently and holistically.

Start small — try aloe vera or Vitamin E this week.
Fuel your body with estrogen-rich foods like flaxseed or soy.
Take action without shame — whether that means a natural lubricant or calling your doctor.
Most of all, be gentle with yourself. Healing is not just physical — it’s emotional and spiritual, too.

Natural remedies for vaginal dryness don’t just treat symptoms — they support whole-body healing. From herbal treatments to safe vaginal lubricants for menopause, your body already knows how to heal — you just need to give it the right support.

References

Albornoz, M. A., Burke, J. F., & Threlfall, E. K. (2023). Virgin Coconut Oil in Paste Form as Treatment for Dyspareunia and Vaginal Dryness in Patients With and Without Rheumatic Autoimmune Diseases: An Efficacy and Safety Assessment Pilot Study. Cureus, 15(6), e40501. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.40501

Poordast, T., Ghaedian, L., Ghaedian, L., Najib, F. S., Alipour, S., Hosseinzadeh, M., Vardanjani, H. M., Salehi, A., & Hosseinimehr, S. J. (2021). Aloe Vera; A new treatment for atrophic vaginitis, A randomized double-blinded controlled trial. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 270, 113760. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2020.113760

Golmakani N, Parnan Emamverdikhan A, Zarifian A, Sajadi Tabassi SA, Hassanzadeh M. Vitamin E as alternative local treatment in genitourinary syndrome of menopause: a randomized controlled trial. Int Urogynecol J. 2019 May;30(5):831-837. doi: 10.1007/s00192-018-3698-z. Epub 2018 Jul 3. PMID: 29971469.

Parnan Emamverdikhan A, Golmakani N, Tabassi SA, Hassanzadeh M, Sharifi N, Shakeri MT. A survey of the therapeutic effects of Vitamin E suppositories on vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women. Iran J Nurs Midwifery Res. 2016 Sep-Oct;21(5):475-481. doi: 10.4103/1735-9066.193393. PMID: 27904630; PMCID: PMC5114791.

Albornoz MA, Burke JF, Threlfall EK. Virgin Coconut Oil in Paste Form as Treatment for Dyspareunia and Vaginal Dryness in Patients With and Without Rheumatic Autoimmune Diseases: An Efficacy and Safety Assessment Pilot Study. Cureus. 2023 Jun 16;15(6):e40501. doi: 10.7759/cureus.40501. PMID: 37461787; PMCID: PMC10350307.

Dizavandi FR, Ghazanfarpour M, Roozbeh N, Kargarfard L, Khadivzadeh T, Dashti S. An overview of the phytoestrogen effect on vaginal health and dyspareunia in peri- and post-menopausal women. Post Reprod Health. 2019 Mar;25(1):11-20. doi: 10.1177/2053369118823365. Epub 2019 Feb 20. PMID: 30786797.

Mercier, Joanie PT, MSc; Morin, Mélanie PT, PhD; Lemieux, Marie-Claude MD; Reichetzer, Barbara MD, MSc; Khalifé, Samir MD; Dumoulin, Chantale PT, PhD. Pelvic floor muscles training to reduce symptoms and signs of vulvovaginal atrophy: a case study. Menopause 23(7):p 816-820, July 2016. | DOI: 10.1097/GME.0000000000000620

Houttu, N., Mokkala, K., Saleem, W. T., Virtanen, S., Juhila, J., Koivuniemi, E., Pellonperä, O., Tertti, K., Luokola, P., Sorsa, T., Salonen, A., Lahti, L., & Laitinen, K. (2022). Potential pathobionts in vaginal microbiota are affected by fish oil and/or probiotics intervention in overweight and obese pregnant women. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 149, 112841. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112841