There are a range of products available from the pharmacy that can help treat intimate health problems.

• Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants can give relief from symptoms of vaginal dryness. A range of different products are available. Lubricants offer short-term relief, whereas moisturisers are creams that are applied inside the vagina to keep the area moist. Moisturisers should be applied regularly, according to the product directions, to ease itching, irritation and discomfort. There are a variety of brands that have slightly different compositions and pHs, so customers may need to try a few before they find the one that works best for them. Examples include Replens.MD. Petroleum-based or oil-based products can damage condoms so extra care must be taken.
• Thrush can be treated with antifungals. These are available as topical treatments (e.g. clotrimazole) or as oral capsules (fluconazole). Topical formulations include pessaries, internal creams with vaginal applicators and external creams. Many products are sold in a combination (e.g. pessaries and creams) for both internal treatment and external symptom relief. Examples include the Canesten range.
• OTC products that reduce the acidity of urine, such as sodium citrate sachets mixed with water, can help to relieve cystitis symptoms. Examples include Effercitrate and Canesten Oasis. If symptoms are severe, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Customers should also be advised to drink plenty of water.
• Bacterial vaginosis may need to be treated with antibiotics from a doctor. There are testing kits available to tell whether an infection is thrush or BV, as well as gels that help to regulate the pH of the vagina. Examples include Canestest and Canesbalance.