I was about to order a Issviva x Joylux infrared wand after reading rave reviews , but noticed in the small print that use is not advised for people on cancer fighting drugs or medications that increase photo sensitivity . I’m so fed up with ’ nothing working for vaginal dryness to extent unable to have sex , i’ll try anything. What are the risks of using this ?
I’m 8 years into 10 year course of Anastrazole .
Good Morning @vangirl1
I feel your pain, it’s definitely worth researching what the implications would be of using the red light therapy along with the anaztrazole. I take it you are not allowed to sunbathe whilst on Anastrazole.
As an alternative have you used dilators?
When I heard about them I thought no, they can’t help with the dryness, tightness and lack of feeling. I was lucky enough to receive a set from my gynaecologist. There’s 4 tubes that attach to each other for ease of use. Sizes ranging from very small. They do help with all the symptoms as use loosens everything up and natural moisture is released. There’s guides on how to use online. Try for as long as you can as often as you can.
I’ve also been lucky enough to receive pelvic floor training. It’s taken me months to learn how to relax the muscles. I’ve had feelings of prolapse so must have spent so long holding everything in. I’m still learning and it is helping with all feelings in that area too.
Hope you find some relief from your issue
Xxxx
Hello! No one’s told me not to sunbathe while I’m on Anastrozole - 4.5 years down, 5.5 to go.
So many of us escape to the sun for some R&R after the hospital treatment is down or even between treatments, if it was a ‘thing’ we’d heard.
You have to go careful for a while (year? can’t remember) after radiotherapy and I take it steady so as not to aggravate my lymphoedema. Mind you, I’m usually horizontal and not doing much so that’s a good thing!
I can’t comment Ion the device you quoted but you should be able to ask for Pelvic Health Physio and a menopause clinic for help with vaginal problems.
Yes Organics is a good moisturiser and lubricant. Available on the NHS.
Nurses are back from 9 on Monday.
Hi vangirl1
Thank you for posting and asking whether the Issviva x Joylux infrared wand is safe to use if you are taking cancer treatment drugs like anastrozole. Many women contact us concerned about vaginal dryness and other menopausal symptoms they are experiencing as side effects of treatment for breast cancer.
Some breast cancer treatments like anastrozole block or reduce the amount of the hormone oestrogen in the body. Oestrogen helps maintain the vagina’s moisture and elasticity. A lack of it can cause the vagina and the surrounding tissues to become dry and less supple, causing pain, soreness and discomfort. This can make sex or intimacy difficult which can be distressing and difficult to talk about.
If it is not treated these symptoms can get worse, so it’s important to get help if you need it from your GP or breast care nurse or team. Although increased skin sensitivity due sunlight exposure
(photosensitivity) is not a known side effect of anastrozole you are advised to use sun protection if going somewhere hot as @Gelbel mentions. Your team will be able to advise you whether the device you mention is safe to use in your situation.
There are a variety of non-hormonal treatments that can also help with vaginal dryness, including vaginal moisturisers and lubricants You may be able to get these on prescription from your doctor, or you can buy them from a chemist or online. Topical oestrogen creams can sometimes also be considered although your treatment team will usually prefer you to have tried non-hormonal treatments first. If your symptoms persist you can talk to your doctor about a referral to a menopause clinic or a pelvic health physio as suggested by @naughty_boob
Dilators and pelvic floor exercises, as suggested by @Ahbc21, can also help improve vaginal dryness by increasing blood flow to the area. More information can be found on the link above and you may find our YouTube video on vaginal dryness helpful. You may also find these further resources helpful.
Our booklet Your Body, Intimacy and Sex also has information about vaginal dryness. We also offer a range of free supportive services which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.
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Best wishes
Katy
Breast Care Nurse
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