A randomized trial on the effectiveness and safety of 5 water-based personal lubricants

Background A range of personal lubricants with different formulations and subsequent properties are available for relief of discomfort associated with vaginal dryness; however, there are limited clinical data to support the efficacy and safety of many commercially available lubricants. Aim To determine the effectiveness and safety of 5 water-based personal lubricants for the relief of intimate discomfort associated with vaginal dryness in pre- and postmenopausal women: 4 that were formulated to meet the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for osmolality and pH and 1 preexisting lubricant of higher osmolality and pH. Methods An open-label, parallel-design study was performed in women aged 18 to 65 years with mild-to-moderate vaginal dryness and dyspareunia. Participants were randomized to 1 of 5 lubricants (A-E) from 3 brands (Durex, KY, Queen V). They were instructed to use their allocated lubricants during vaginal intercourse at least once a week over a 4-week period. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) measured sexual functioning after 4 weeks of use as an indicator of lubricant performance. Outcomes The primary outcome was change from baseline in total FSFI score after 4 weeks of product use. Results A total of 174 women completed the study. The primary end point-a prespecified increase in FSFI & GE;4 points from baseline after 4 weeks of use-was met by all 5 lubricants tested. A statistically significant improvement was observed across all 6 domains of the FSFI from baseline to 4 weeks of use with all 5 lubricants (P < .0001 for lubrication and pain reduction and P < .05 for all other domains). No serious adverse events occurred in the study, and the tolerance of all 5 lubricants was good/very good. Clinical Implications The efficacy and safety of the tested lubricants are not compromised when formulated to meet the WHO criterion of osmolality & LE;1200 mOsm/kg. The lubricants tested in this investigation can be used not only to relieve symptomatology of vaginal dryness and dyspareunia but also to enhance overall sexual satisfaction. Strengths and Limitations This study provides clinical evidence for the efficacy and safety of 5 lubricants, including those formulated to meet WHO guidelines, in relieving symptoms of vaginal dryness and improving the overall sexual experience. The open-label design may have introduced bias into the study. Conclusion All 5 lubricants, including those formulated to be compliant with guidelines on pH and osmolality, can be considered effective and well tolerated for the relief of discomfort associated with vaginal dryness.