Ask Dr. R – On using vaginal estrogen, Vitamin E & baby oil for prolapse surgery

Saw you on Dr. Oz yesterday. I have bladder prolapse, 64 y.o. female. Rx given for Vagi-fem to help irritation in perianal area (original complaint). I use baby oil for sexual activity so have no pain during intercourse.Planning to have surgery in August to lift bladder. Will be taking Vagi-fem now help revive my interior so that the surgery will be more effective. Does that make sense? I will be using topical Vitamin E for external irritation.

Hello,
Estrogen applied topically to wounds has been shown to improve wound healing, so using Vagifem before your surgery is a good idea. The use of any oil for lubrication must be approached skeptically, as the vagina is not designed to be “oily” and chronic use of oils can throw things out of balance, resulting in chemical or bacterial vaginitis after prolonged use. Also, Vitamin E can thin the blood and increase bruising and bleeding, making it even more difficult to agree with your plan to use Vitamin E oil after the surgery. For more information on preparing for surgery, supplements to augment wound healing, and what to expect during recovery, you may find my book a helpful resource http://www.plumbingandrenovations.com
Best Regards,
Dr. R