You are here: Home Managing Your ... Chemotherapy Side ... Women's Parts
Information about all aspects of finances affected by a serious health condition. Includes income sources such as work, investments, and private and government disability programs, and expenses such as medical bills, and how to deal with financial problems.
Information about all aspects of health care from choosing a doctor and treatment, staying safe in a hospital, to end of life care. Includes how to obtain, choose and maximize health insurance policies.
Answers to your practical questions such as how to travel safely despite your health condition, how to avoid getting infected by a pet, and what to say or not say to an insurance company.

Some drugs given during chemo treatment may affect a woman's hormones, causing hot flashes and dryness of the vagina. 

Vaginal Dryness

According to Cleveland Clinic, the  following tips have helped:

  • Use water based vaginal lubricants such as K-Y jelly, Lubrin, Surgilube or Astroglide.  
    • These are located in the feminine hygiene section or birth control section of your pharmacy or drug store.
    • Place the lubricant inside of your vagina with your fingers and on your partner's penis just prior to penetration.
  • Another vaginal dryness treatment option would be a vaginal moisturizer, such as Replens, which may be use three times a week.
  • Avoid use of vaseline as a vaginal lubricant as it can increase the chances and severity of vaginal yeast infections.
  • If inadequate sexual arousal is the cause of vaginal dryness, then you must explore your feelings to determine why this is a concern.
  • Some women with low blood estrogen levels may experience vaginal dryness. In this case, if topical lubricants aren't effective, and if your healthcare provider permits, you may use a conjugated estrogen cream daily for 10 days, then every other day. If you have a hormone dependent cancer, estrogen therapy may not be right for you.

Hot Flashes

The most effective way to manage hot flashes is through hormone replacement therapy. For information, speak with your doctor.