By Board Certified Urologist, Dr. Yana Barbalat
Although studies on the use of coconut oil in the vaginal area are lacking, most physicians do feel that coconut oil is generally safe to use as a vaginal moisturizer, natural lubricant, and soothing agent. Many urologists and gynecologists even compound vaginal estrogen in coconut oil to help relieve vaginal burning and stinging in postmenopausal women.
Dermatology and pediatric data has shown that coconut oil may be a beneficial topical agent for improving skin integrity in preterm infants and children with some inflammatory skin conditions.
Despite its popularity, there are a few things to keep in mind when using coconut oil in the vagina.
- First, coconut oil is not FDA approved for the use on vaginal skin. There are no guideline statements to support its use in the vagina because scientific data is lacking.
- Second, some patients may be allergic to coconut oil so it’s important to make sure you are not allergic to this product.
- Third, when used as a lubricant, coconut oil may breakdown latex condoms and diaphragms putting you at risk for unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Because it is oil, it can stain your sheets and clothes as well.
Finally, there are no studies showing that coconut oil prevents urinary tract infections so it not recommended to be used for those purposes.
