Best Vitamins And Supplements To Increase Female Lubrication

Vaginal dryness is a surprisingly common problem, and it can happen at any age. The problem is usually linked to decreases in estrogen levels. This is why is happens more among those going through menopause. Let’s take a closer look at how some vitamins and supplements may help support healthy vaginal lubrication.

13 Supplements and vitamins to support vaginal lubrication

1. Vitamin B complex

The immune system relies on adequate access to vitamins and minerals, and B-complex (all 8 B vitamins) supports healthy cellular and energy responses for balanced immune function. B vitamins also support healthy nervous system function, which is important because nerve cells are found all throughout the body.

The immune system plays an important role in vaginal health, including the microbiome’s influence on vaginal pH and cervical fluid balance. B vitamins also support a healthy perception of wellness, cellular energy, and support the body’s stress response system. Stress has a negative effect on vaginal health, and may alter how the immune system’s cells behave. B vitamins support overall health throughout the body, with direct impacts on gastrointestinal, nervous system, and vaginal health.

Care/of offers a B-complex vitamin as an oral supplement that’s shown to support the nervous system and promote energy metabolism. You can learn more about the research and benefits of Care/of’s B-Complex on the product page.

2. Vitamin D

While vitamin D is best known for its role in supporting healthy bones, research suggests that it can have benefits for female lubrication, too. Studies show that vitamin D can help maintain a healthy vaginal pH and support epithelial cells. This may help with vaginal dryness and improved vaginal health during hormone changes like menopause.

A study of 200 older women found that adequate vitamin D levels in the blood were linked to improved vaginal health. More research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms, but since vitamin D is crucial for healthy immune function, bone parameters, and more, it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to discuss if your levels should be tested and if supplementation is right for you.

3. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that’s also an effective antioxidant. Research suggests that vitamin E could be beneficial for boosting vaginal lubrication and reducing dryness. One study found that using a vitamin E suppository for 12 weeks improved symptoms of vaginal atrophy. Moreover, some other studies have found that suppositories that include vitamin E – along with other ingredients – could improve symptoms of vaginal atrophy. The benefits of vitamin E for vaginal lubrication are likely due to its role in maintaining estrogen levels and keeping arteries flexible, thus facilitating healthy blood flow.

This doesn’t necessarily translate into the same benefits from oral vitamin E supplements, though. Ask your healthcare provider about vitamin E for vaginal health support.

4. Vitamin A

Vitamin A is fat-soluble nutrient that supports cell communication, growth and development, tissue health, and female reproductive health. Studies have found that when vitamin A is used as an ingredient in a vaginal suppository, it can help reduce vaginal dryness. However, the benefits of oral vitamin A supplements may or may not translate with the same benefits. Clinical trials are still lacking.

Nevertheless, vitamin A is an essential nutrient needed for overall health. Vitamin A can be obtained from various dietary sources. Preformed vitamin A is found in foods like beef liver, herring, and dairy products. On the other hand, provitamin A, often in the form of beta-carotene, is present in sweet potatoes, spinach, pumpkin, carrots, cantaloupe, peppers, and mangoes.

If you’re considering vitamin A supplements, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider first. These supplements are fat-soluble, which means they should be consumed alongside a dietary fat source to support optimal absorption and utilization. Additionally, beta-carotene supplements have to be converted by the body into vitamin A and, due to genetics, not everyone can efficiently convert this. Therefore, if vitamin A supplementation is necessary, it's advisable to seek professional guidance to ensure it's done safely and effectively.

5. Sea buckthorn oil

Sea buckthorn oil is a supplement drawn from the leaves, berries, and seeds of the buckthorn plant. Rich in fatty acids like linoleic acid, it can help strengthen the barrier of your skin and protect against water loss.

One study of 116 postmenopausal women with vaginal dryness investigated the impact of consuming 3 grams of sea buckthorn oil daily for three months. The study noted improvements for vaginal tissue integrity, with the participants who took the sea buckthorn oil having improved vaginal dryness compared to the placebo group. Though results were not statistically significant, however, so the results of the study need to be replicated in a larger trial.

6. Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is a molecule the body produces and is known for its role in skin health and aging. It is a popular component of many cosmetic products, but it’s also available as a supplement – often packaged as a gel or as a suppository. Research suggests that topical gels and suppositories containing hyaluronic acid and other ingredients, like vitamin A and vitamin E, may support healthy tissue responses in the vagina. Another study compared vaginal hyaluronic acid to estrogen and found that while both supported vaginal health, the hyalyronic acid was less effective. Still, researchers noted that it could support vaginal epithelial health and pH balance and was an alternative for those who could not use estrogen.

While hyaluronic acid shows promise, larger studies need to be done. This research didn’t look at oral supplementation for vaginal health benefits, and oral versus topical use are unlikely to work in the same way.

7. DHEA

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone naturally produced by your body in the adrenal glands. DHEA is essential for the production of other hormones, including estrogen, which is necessary for vaginal lubrication and vaginal health. One small study found that vaginal administration of DHEA improved hormone balance and healthy vaginal pH, factors that contribute to healthy lubrication. Larger studies are needed. Additionally, oral DHEA supplementation may not have the same impact since it was not studied.

8. Boron

Boron is a trace mineral and micronutrient that plays an important role in plant, animal, and human metabolism. Boron may play a role in helping the body to use both estrogen and testosterone, hormones that are essential for vaginal and overall reproductive health. However, studies have not been done to evaluate the direct role of boron supplementation on vaginal health. There is no established RDA for boron, and most people who consume a balanced diet likely get enough from foods.

9. Black cohosh

Black cohosh is an herbal supplement often used for women’s health. While it’s not classified as a phytoestrogen (a compound found in plants that mimic the hormone estrogen), it has been used for many female-related health needs across the adult reproductive and menopausal spectrum. A systematic review found potential for healthy female hormone balance in perimenopause, which may indirectly support vaginal lubrication. A Cochrane review, however, determined that there is not enough evidence to support the use of black cohosh for most menopause-related symptoms. The review noted that more studies are warranted.

If you are considering taking black cohosh, it’s important to exercise caution as it can interact with other herbs and medications. Check with your healthcare provider before taking it or any other supplements.

10. Evening primrose oil

Evening primrose oil is an herbal plant extract that is rich in omega-6 essential fatty acids, including gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Studies done on evening primrose oil mostly focus on menopausal symptoms as a whole, not just vaginal lubrication.

Research shows that it may decrease the severity of hot flashes, but there is very limited data on how it can affect vaginal lubrication.

11. Flaxseed

Flaxseed, in its various forms (flaxseed oil, flax lignan, flax meal, etc.), offers numerous potential health benefits. Some preliminary evidence found that flax meal can support menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, when compared to baseline. Other small trials show ground flaxseed can reduce hot flashes and night sweats, but similar results were found in the placebo group, too. Higher-quality studies looking at flaxseeds do not show benefits when compared to a placebo, either.

There is currently insufficient evidence to suggest that flaxseed in any form affects vaginal lubrication. Flaxseed has other benefits, though, and can be part of a healthy diet.

12. Soy

Soy, including soy protein or isoflavone supplements, has the potential to support menopausal comfort and manage symptoms, particularly hot flashes. The effectiveness was most pronounced in people who had more severe or frequent hot flashes. Genistein, a specific isoflavone found in soy, can also be supplemented on its own and is thought to play a significant role in providing menopausal support, with higher genistein levels correlating with optimal benefits.

A meta-analysis that looked at soy isoflavones found that between 75-118 mg could help support healthy vaginal lubrication when compared to control groups. However a small study reported that a diet rich in soy did not provide significant improvements in urogenital symptoms or vaginal dryness when compared to a soy-free diet in either perimenopause or postmenopause people. Soy may have differing effects, or it could be that the concentrated isoflavones are supportive of vaginal health but whole food soy is not. More research is needed for clarity.

13. Wild yam

Wild yam contains a beneficial bioactive compound known as diosgenin. Wild yam is thought to affect the hormone, DHEA, but this has only been shown in test tube studies – it does not occur in the body. Wild yam supplements are not currently proven to influence DHEA or hormone levels.

Some studies show that wild yam or similar herbal preparations may help with vaginal tissue flexibility, but it does not have a proven impact on the epithelial environment – including dryness. Research notes that the efficacy of wild yam to affect genito-urinary symptoms is lacking and additional studies are needed.

Wild yam should not be used topically or as a lubricant without first consulting with a healthcare provider. The vaginal canal has a specific pH balance, and the use of non-medicinal or medically indicated lubricants can disrupt this balance, potentially leading to complications.

Other natural remedies for vaginal dryness

You can also improve lubrication through small lifestyle tweaks that promote overall wellness. Getting enough sleep, exercising, and eating a nutrient-rich diet can all help your immune function and blood flow, which in turn can help vaginal health.

There are many natural remedies for vaginal dryness discussed on the internet, but it’s important to note that you should not use topical or homemade lubricants without consulting a gynecologist or medical provider. Coconut oil, for example, is frequently recommended on natural remedy blogs, but because it is antibacterial it may also disrupt the beneficial bacteria that are needed for vaginal health. Although there is no clinical research on this, your medical provider should be the one to advise you whether this practice is recommended or not. There are concerns, however, of coconut oil or other substances that are not intended for medical application having contaminants.

Foods that help boost female lubrication

Vaginal lubrication relies on healthy blood flow, which is largely regulated by estrogen. While there’s no direct link, foods that support healthy blood flow and general hormone wellness may support overall sexual well-being. These could include plenty of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in antioxidants and compounds that support healthy nitric oxide synthesis. Ultimately, eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet is important and there is no specific dietary protocol for vaginal lubrication.

When to speak to your doctor

Vaginal dryness is common for many reasons, including hormone changes at various stages of life. It does not indicate a serious problem, however, it can be uncomfortable and may impact the quality of your life. Your medical provider is the best person to speak to about relief and support for healthy lubrication.

If you experience other symptoms, it’s important to let your healthcare provider know.

The Bottom Line

Vaginal dryness is a common issue, typically caused by hormonal changes. It’s especially common during menopause. The vitamins and supplements listed above may help support vaginal wellness and healthy lubrication. Be sure to talk to medical professionals before adding any new supplements to your routine, and check with them about what treatment will work best for you.