Vaginal dryness is a common and often distressing symptom. Furthermore, it can affect women at many life stages, not just menopause.
The condition is sometimes called:
Vaginal atrophy (the medical term for thinning of vaginal tissues)
Atrophic vaginitis (the inflammatory version)
Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) — the newer umbrella term
Vaginal dryness or intimate dryness in everyday language
Whatever name is used, the symptoms can be similar. Furthermore, they often include:
Dryness and a feeling of tightness
Itching or burning
Irritation or soreness
Pain during sex (dyspareunia)
Discomfort when sitting or wearing tight clothing
Recurrent urinary tract infections
Increased urinary frequency or urgency
Vulval changes including thinning and reduced elasticity
Why YES VM matters in modern UK menopause care
Modern UK menopause care has evolved significantly. Furthermore, the British Menopause Society (BMS) and NICE guidance now position vaginal moisturisers as core treatment.
YES VM has a clear place in this approach:
First-line for women who can’t or won’t use hormones
Useful alongside HRT or vaginal oestrogen for additional comfort
Essential for women with a history of hormone-sensitive cancers
Helpful during gradual transitions on or off HRT
Appropriate for vaginal dryness from non-menopausal causes
Suitable for daily ongoing use, unlike most other moisturisers
Where YES VM fits in stepped vaginal dryness care
Modern UK practice follows a structured approach. Furthermore, the steps can be combined as needed:
Foundation: vaginal moisturiser used regularly (such as YES VM); avoidance of irritants (perfumed soaps, douches, tight synthetic underwear)
Lubricant for sexual activity: water-based or oil-based (such as YES WB or YES OB) used during intimacy
Vaginal oestrogen: low-dose tablets (Vagifem, Vagirux), pessary (Imvaggis), ring (Estring), or cream (Ovestin) for women suitable for local hormones
Systemic HRT: oral, transdermal, or other systemic preparations where appropriate for the wider menopause picture
Ospemifene: oral selective oestrogen receptor modulator for moderate to severe symptoms in specific patients
Prasterone: vaginal DHEA pessary for moderate to severe atrophy
Laser and energy-based treatments: under specialist gynaecology guidance for selected patients
Specialist menopause referral for complex or refractory cases
YES VM fits at the foundation step. Furthermore, it can be used alongside any of the other treatments. As a result, it is genuinely complementary rather than competing.
Common causes of vaginal dryness
Vaginal dryness can happen at many life stages. Furthermore, knowing the cause helps choose the right treatment:
Perimenopause and menopause: falling oestrogen levels affect vaginal tissues
Breast cancer treatment: aromatase inhibitors, tamoxifen, and chemotherapy all reduce oestrogen
Other cancer treatments: pelvic radiotherapy, gynaecological surgery
Postpartum and breastfeeding: hormonal changes reduce vaginal moisture
Some contraceptives: low-dose pills or progestogen-only methods sometimes cause dryness
Other medicines: some antidepressants, antihistamines, decongestants, and bladder medicines
Sjögren’s syndrome specifically: affects mucous membranes including vaginal tissues
Stress and anxiety: can reduce arousal and natural lubrication
Smoking: affects blood flow and tissue health
Lichen sclerosus and other vulval dermatoses
Hyperprolactinaemia and other hormonal conditions
YES VM is suitable for vaginal dryness from any of these causes. Furthermore, it doesn’t require the dryness to be related to menopause.
Who YES VM suits well
YES VM suits adult women with:
Menopausal or perimenopausal vaginal dryness
Vaginal atrophy from any cause
Vaginal dryness during or after breast cancer treatment
A preference for hormone-free intimate care
Contraindications to oestrogen treatment
Postpartum or breastfeeding-related dryness
Vaginal dryness alongside HRT or vaginal oestrogen (extra support)
Sensitive skin or vulval conditions like lichen sclerosus
Discomfort during sex or daily activities
A desire for natural, organic-leaning intimate care
Who might suit alternatives better
Alternatives may suit women who:
Have moderate to severe vaginal atrophy that hasn’t responded to moisturiser alone (vaginal oestrogen may be more effective)
Have severe menopausal symptoms beyond vaginal dryness (systemic HRT may be more appropriate)
Prefer a longer-lasting option (vaginal oestrogen ring lasts 3 months between changes)
Need a hormonal approach (vaginal oestrogen tablets, creams, pessaries, or ring)
Are looking specifically for a sexual lubricant rather than a daily moisturiser (YES WB water-based or YES OB oil-based may suit)
Have specific gynaecological conditions needing specialist input
Have abnormal bleeding, discharge, or pain warranting GP review first
Have allergies to any of the YES VM ingredients
Courier Pharmacy supply
YES VM is supplied through Courier Pharmacy as a non-prescription product. Furthermore, it is also available on NHS prescription if your GP issues one. As a result, you have flexible options for ongoing supply.
YES VM Vaginal Moisturiser (water-based, hormone-free)
YES VM is a water-based vaginal moisturising gel. It is one of the most trusted non-hormonal options for vaginal dryness in UK pharmacy. Furthermore, YES VM is available on NHS prescription via the UK Drug Tariff. As a result, it sits alongside vaginal oestrogen as a key part of modern menopause and vaginal dryness care. The gel matches the natural pH of the vagina. It also matches tissue osmolality. As a result, it works with the body rather than against it.
At Courier Pharmacy, we believe in treatment that fits the person.
That means honest framing of where YES VM fits in the wider menopause and vaginal dryness landscape. Furthermore, it means understanding when YES VM is the right choice. It also means knowing when vaginal oestrogen, HRT, or other options would work better. This page covers what YES VM is, how it works, who it suits, and the practical points that matter for daily use.
Five key takeaways
YES VM is a UK-supplied, water-based vaginal moisturising gel. The formula is hormone-free. As a result, it suits women who can’t or don’t want to use vaginal oestrogen, as well as those who want extra support alongside HRT
The gel is bio-adhesive. It coats the vaginal tissues and releases water as needed. Furthermore, each application typically lasts around 3 days. As a result, the dosing schedule is gentle and practical
Available on NHS prescription and over the counter. Furthermore, YES VM is MTICK certified for menopause-related vaginal dryness. As a result, it is recognised by gynaecologists, menopause specialists, and dermatologists
The formula matches vaginal pH and tissue osmolality. Furthermore, it is free from glycerin, parabens, propylene glycol, petroleum products, silicone oils, and hormones. As a result, it is gentle on sensitive tissues and avoids common irritants
YES VM relieves dryness, itching, burning, and irritation. Furthermore, regular use restores natural moisture and elasticity over time. As a result, it suits women with vaginal atrophy, menopausal dryness, post-cancer treatment dryness, and other causes of intimate dryness
Why choose Courier Pharmacy for YES VM
At Courier Pharmacy, our approach starts with a simple idea: treatment should fit the person, not force the person to fit the system.
Dr Ada Jex-Cori
Our service is shaped by the philosophy of Dr Ada Jex-Cori, our brand pharmacist.
Dr Ada represents the spirit of the pharmacy: evidence-led, community-rooted, and willing to challenge the one-size-fits-all approach to medicine.
She is named in honour of three pioneering women in science: Ada Lovelace, the mathematician and visionary; Sophia Jex-Blake, the first female doctor in the UK who fought the medical establishment; and Gerty Cori, the biochemist and Nobel Prize winner.
In our fictional world of Ethrewell, Dr Ada fights against pharma’s standardised approach to medicine. In the real world, she represents what we stand for. Her view is straightforward: you are not broken. The system is. And we are here to change that.
Honest framing of where YES VM fits
YES VM is a genuinely effective non-hormonal option for vaginal dryness. Furthermore, the bio-adhesive plant polymer formula has real clinical evidence.
However, YES VM isn’t the right answer for everyone. As a result, we will discuss your situation rather than just selling the product. Specifically:
Whether your symptoms suggest YES VM, vaginal oestrogen, or another approach would suit best
Whether you have abnormal bleeding or other features needing GP review first
Whether you would benefit from a wider menopause consultation
Whether breast cancer history affects your treatment options
Whether combination treatment (YES VM plus vaginal oestrogen) would help
Whether other YES products (YES WB, YES OB) would also be useful
Treatment that fits, not one-size-fits-all
Many online pharmacies just dispense vaginal dryness products without thinking through individual situations. Courier Pharmacy is different.
We think through your situation: your symptoms, your menopause status, your cancer history, your hormone use, your wider health, and what fits with your life.
YES VM may be the right answer for you. Alternatively, vaginal oestrogen may suit better. Furthermore, systemic HRT may address the wider menopause picture. Or specialist menopause referral may be appropriate for complex situations.
Vaginal dryness as part of wider menopause care
Vaginal dryness is often part of a wider menopause picture. As a result, our pharmacist may discuss:
Hot flushes and night sweats
Sleep disruption
Mood changes
Joint aches and pains
Cognitive symptoms (brain fog)
Bone health and fracture risk
Cardiovascular health
Whether HRT would suit your wider symptom picture
Treating just vaginal dryness without addressing the wider menopause may miss important opportunities. Furthermore, addressing menopause as a whole often produces better outcomes.
Care for women on breast cancer treatment
Vaginal dryness during and after breast cancer treatment is extremely common. Furthermore, the impact on quality of life is significant:
Aromatase inhibitors (anastrozole, letrozole, exemestane) cause severe dryness in many women
Tamoxifen causes dryness in around 40% of women
Hormone-based treatments are usually avoided
YES VM provides an effective hormone-free option
Coordination with breast care nurses and oncology is welcome
Pharmacist support before and after purchase
Our pharmacist is available to discuss:
Whether YES VM is the right product for your situation
How to apply effectively for best results
How to combine with other treatments (vaginal oestrogen, HRT, lubricants)
When to seek GP or specialist menopause clinic review
This is free and available before and after purchase.
Care for specific patient groups
We provide tailored support for:
Women in perimenopause and menopause
Women on or after breast cancer treatment
Women with hormone-sensitive conditions
Women who can’t or don’t want to use HRT
Women using HRT who want additional symptomatic relief
Postpartum and breastfeeding women
Women with vulval skin conditions (lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, vulvodynia)
Women with autoimmune conditions affecting moisture (Sjögren’s syndrome, lupus, scleroderma)
Women with MCAS, CFS, fibromyalgia, or other long-term conditions where intimate health overlaps with the broader picture
Coordination with your GP and other care
If you have a GP, menopause specialist, gynaecologist, oncologist, breast care nurse, or psychosexual therapist involved in your care, we are happy to coordinate.
For women with complex symptoms or treatments, joined-up care produces better outcomes than fragmented care.
Trust earned, not claimed
We are GPhC-regulated. Furthermore, we ground our content in NHS, NICE NG23 (menopause), British Menopause Society (BMS) guidance, and gynaecology specialist consensus.
We will tell you honestly if YES VM isn’t the right answer for your situation. We would rather give you the right advice than a quick sale.
How to buy YES VM from Courier Pharmacy
YES VM is a CE/UKCA-marked medical device. Furthermore, it can be supplied without prescription. However, it is also available on NHS prescription if your GP issues one.
How our service works
Add YES VM to your basket. Choose the pack format that suits you (100ml tube or 6-pack applicators)
If you have specific concerns, our pharmacist is available to discuss your situation before or after purchase
Once ordered, your purchase is prepared and dispatched discreetly
Free pharmacist support is available before and after your order
When alternatives might suit better
If YES VM isn’t the right product for your situation, we will explain why. Alternatives may include:
YES WB Water-Based Lubricant: for sexual activity rather than daily moisturisation
YES OB Plant Oil-Based Lubricant: oil-based alternative for sexual activity (not condom-safe)
YES COCO Coconut Oil-Based Lubricant: another oil-based option
YES CLEANSE Intimate Wash: for daily cleansing without disrupting natural pH
Replens vaginal moisturiser: alternative non-hormonal moisturiser
Hyalofemme vaginal moisturising gel: hyaluronic acid-based alternative
Vagisan vaginal moisturising cream: another non-hormonal option
Sylk Personal Lubricant: natural water-based alternative
Specialist menopause clinic referral for complex cases
GP review for abnormal bleeding, suspected infection, or other symptoms
Our community service
Our free fortnightly drop-in clinics at Insomnia, Derby run every other week from 10am to 12pm.
Healthcare shouldn’t only happen when you’re paying for it. We show up, even when it’s free.
We cover menopause, vaginal dryness, women’s health, intimate health, allergies, asthma, MCAS, CFS, fibromyalgia, hair loss, weight management, digestive health, and whatever else people bring through the door. No appointment needed, no charge, no pressure.
Active ingredients
YES VM uses a patented mixture of plant polymers. Furthermore, these polymers hold and carry water strongly. As a result, they deliver hydration directly to the vaginal tissues.
Key active components
The plant polymer system includes:
Flax gum: a natural mucilage that holds water and forms a soothing film
Locust bean gum: a plant-derived thickener that helps the formula coat tissues evenly
Guar gum: another plant gum that adds bio-adhesive properties
Xanthan gum: a natural polysaccharide that gives the gel its texture
Aloe vera: known for soothing and skin-friendly properties
These polymers work together. Furthermore, they coat the vaginal tissues gently. As a result, they release water slowly into the tissues as needed.
Full ingredients list
YES VM ingredients include:
Water (Aqua)
Flax gum
Aloe vera
Locust bean gum
Guar gum
Sodium chloride
Xanthan gum
Potassium sorbate (preservative)
Citric acid (pH regulator)
Phenoxyethanol (preservative)
What's NOT in YES VM
Several common ingredients are deliberately excluded:
Glycerin: can disrupt the vaginal microbiome and may feed yeast
Parabens: avoided due to concerns about endocrine effects
Propylene glycol: can irritate sensitive vaginal tissue
Petroleum by-products and mineral oil: can coat tissue and disrupt the natural balance
Silicone oils: can leave a film and disrupt the microbiome
Grapefruit seed extract: a common ingredient that some people find irritating
Hormones: YES VM is completely hormone-free
Fragrance: no added perfumes or artificial scents
As a result, YES VM is suitable for women with sensitive tissues. Furthermore, it is suitable for women avoiding hormones for any reason, including a history of hormone-sensitive cancers.
Manufacturer
YES VM is made by The YES YES Company Ltd. Furthermore, the company is UK-based. As a result, it focuses specifically on natural intimate health products.
YES products are recognised internationally. They are sold in over 30 countries. Furthermore, the company has been a pioneer in hormone-free intimate health since the early 2000s.
Where YES VM fits in vaginal dryness care
Vaginal dryness affects far more women than is often discussed. Furthermore, it is one of the most under-treated symptoms in UK women's health.
How common is vaginal dryness?
Vaginal dryness is extremely common:
Around 50% of women experience genitourinary symptoms during and after menopause
Yet only around 25% of affected women seek help
Many women feel embarrassed to raise the topic
Symptoms often worsen over time without treatment
Younger women experience vaginal dryness too, often related to other causes
As a result, many women suffer in silence. Furthermore, normalising the conversation matters.
Understanding the changes that cause dryness
Oestrogen plays a key role in vaginal tissue health. Furthermore, when oestrogen drops, several changes happen:
Vaginal walls become thinner and less elastic
Natural lubrication decreases
Blood flow to the area reduces
The vaginal microbiome shifts away from protective lactobacilli
Vaginal pH rises (becomes less acidic)
Tissue becomes more fragile and prone to irritation
Risk of urinary tract infections increases
Pain during sex becomes more common
YES VM addresses several of these changes. Furthermore, the bio-adhesive plant polymers restore moisture. The pH-matched formula helps maintain the natural acidic environment.
The case for non-hormonal options
Vaginal oestrogen works well for many women. However, some women need or want a hormone-free approach:
Women with current or previous hormone-sensitive breast cancer
Women on aromatase inhibitors (anastrozole, letrozole, exemestane)
Women on tamoxifen who want to avoid additional hormone exposure
Women with a strong personal preference for hormone-free care
Women whose symptoms are mild and don't justify hormonal treatment
Women who want to try non-hormonal options before considering hormones
Women using YES VM alongside HRT for extra comfort
YES VM fits all of these situations. Furthermore, it doesn't compete with hormonal treatment. As a result, it complements whatever approach suits the individual.
The case for combining YES VM with other treatments
Many women benefit from combined approaches:
YES VM regularly plus vaginal oestrogen 1-2 times weekly
YES VM daily plus systemic HRT for menopause as a whole
YES VM for daily comfort plus YES WB or YES OB for sexual activity
YES VM plus topical treatment for vulval conditions like lichen sclerosus
YES VM plus pelvic floor physiotherapy for pelvic pain or dysfunction
YES VM plus psychosexual counselling for relationship aspects
Realistic expectations
Important points about YES VM treatment:
Immediate soothing effect from the first application
Full restoration of tissue moisture builds over 2-4 weeks
Severe atrophy may need longer (4-8 weeks) for full benefit
Vaginal oestrogen produces faster tissue restoration where used
Continuous use is needed for sustained benefit
Symptoms often return within weeks if treatment stops
Best results come from combining treatment with general intimate health practices
How YES VM works
YES VM works through several complementary mechanisms. Furthermore, the bio-adhesive plant polymers are the key innovation.
The bio-adhesive polymer mechanism
When applied:
The plant polymers (flax gum, locust bean gum, guar gum, xanthan gum) bind together with water
They form a soft, soothing film on the vaginal tissue
This film coats the tissue evenly and gently
Water is released slowly into the tissues over time
The rate of release depends on how dry the tissues are
Drier tissues draw more water; better-hydrated tissues take less
As tissues rehydrate, their natural elasticity and lubrication return
The film slowly breaks down as the body's natural processes work
As a result, the body controls how much hydration it needs. Furthermore, this differs from oil-based products that simply sit on the surface.
Why pH matching matters
The natural vagina has a slightly acidic pH (around 3.8-4.5). Furthermore, this acidity protects against infections:
Lactobacilli (protective bacteria) thrive in acidic environments
Harmful bacteria struggle to grow in this pH
Yeast overgrowth is less likely at the correct pH
Many lubricants and moisturisers have a higher pH. As a result, they can disrupt this protective acidity. YES VM is formulated to match the natural vaginal pH. Furthermore, this supports the natural protective environment.
Why osmolality matching matters
Osmolality describes the concentration of dissolved particles. Furthermore, products with too high or too low osmolality can damage tissues:
Hyperosmolar products (too concentrated) draw water OUT of tissues
Hypo-osmolar products (too dilute) can cause tissues to swell
Iso-osmolar products (matching tissue osmolality) are gentle on tissues
The World Health Organization recommends iso-osmolar lubricants and moisturisers. Furthermore, YES VM matches tissue osmolality. As a result, it doesn't draw water out or cause tissue swelling.
How the patented formula differs from glycerin-based products
Many commercial lubricants and moisturisers contain glycerin. However, glycerin has several drawbacks for vaginal use:
Hyperosmolar (much higher osmolality than vaginal tissue)
Can draw water OUT of tissues, worsening dryness over time
Acts as a food source for yeast, potentially increasing thrush risk
May disrupt the natural microbiome
YES VM is completely glycerin-free. Furthermore, it uses plant polymers that hold and release water rather than competing with the tissues for it.
Onset and duration
Typical timing for YES VM:
Immediate soothing: noticeable within minutes of application
Full hydration effect: develops over hours
Duration per application: typically around 3 days
Full tissue restoration: builds over 2-4 weeks of regular use
Severe atrophy: may take longer (4-8 weeks)
How to use YES VM
This summary is for reference only. The definitive guide is the product information leaflet. If you are uncertain about any aspect of use, contact our pharmacist for support.
Standard dosing
Initial phase: apply daily for the first 1-2 weeks
Maintenance phase: apply every 3 days as symptoms improve
Severe dryness: may need daily application for longer
Always-on use: many women find continuous use most comfortable
Each application uses approximately 5ml
How to apply YES VM (multi-use tube)
Wash hands thoroughly
Lie down or find a comfortable position
Place a small amount (about 2-3ml) of gel onto a clean finger
Apply gently to the vulva area
If wanted, also apply a small amount inside the vaginal opening with a clean finger
Allow a few minutes to absorb before getting dressed
Wash hands after applying
How to apply YES VM (single-use applicator)
Wash hands thoroughly
Lie down or find a comfortable position
Shake the applicator down to settle the gel
Twist off the top of the applicator
Insert the applicator into the vagina according to personal preference (gently and slowly)
Squeeze the end firmly several times to release all the product
Remove the applicator gently
Dispose of the applicator (don't reuse; recycle if local recycling accepts)
Wash hands
When to apply
Optimal timing:
Before bed (allows overnight absorption)
After showering or bathing
Whenever symptoms feel worse
Not immediately before sex (use a lubricant like YES WB or YES OB for that)
Using YES VM with sex and lubricants
YES VM is a moisturiser, not a lubricant. Furthermore, the two serve different purposes:
Moisturiser (YES VM): used regularly to maintain tissue moisture and comfort
Lubricant (YES WB, YES OB, YES COCO): used specifically during sexual activity for friction reduction
Many women use both. Furthermore, this combination provides the best comfort across daily life and intimacy. As a result, don't view this as competing — they complement each other.
Using YES VM with condoms
Important compatibility information:
YES VM is compatible with latex and polyisoprene condoms
Don't use YES VM with polyurethane condoms
Oil-based YES products (YES OB, YES COCO, YES O YES) damage latex condoms; use water-based instead
Using YES VM alongside vaginal oestrogen
Combining treatments is common and safe:
Apply vaginal oestrogen tablet, pessary, or cream as prescribed (usually twice weekly after initial daily phase)
Use YES VM on the other days
Separate application by a few hours where possible
YES VM doesn't interfere with vaginal oestrogen absorption
Storage and shelf life
Storage requirements:
Store at room temperature
Keep tightly closed
Keep out of sight and reach of children
Use within the expiry date printed on the packaging
Once opened, use the multi-use tube within a reasonable time
Single-use applicators are for one-time use only
Travel considerations
YES VM is travel-friendly:
Single-use applicators are convenient for travel
100ml tube falls within liquid restrictions for cabin baggage
Pack in clear plastic bag with other liquids
Avoid extreme heat (don't leave in hot cars)
When to expect results
Typical timeline:
First application: immediate soothing
First week: noticeable comfort improvement
2-4 weeks: tissue starts to feel less fragile
4-8 weeks: maximum benefit established
Continued use: maintained benefit
If you see no improvement after 4 weeks of regular use, contact our pharmacist or GP. Furthermore, more intensive treatment (such as vaginal oestrogen) may be needed.
Stopping YES VM
YES VM can be stopped at any time without a taper. However, vaginal dryness typically returns within weeks of stopping. As a result, continuous use is the norm for ongoing benefit.
If symptoms return after stopping, restart treatment. Furthermore, the initial response is usually rapid once treatment resumes.
Warnings and precautions for YES VM
When to avoid YES VM
YES VM should not be used by women with:
Known allergy to any ingredient (flax, aloe, guar, locust bean gum, phenoxyethanol)
Active vaginal or urinary infection (treat the infection first)
Suspected or known pregnancy (discuss with GP first)
Postpartum less than 6 weeks (allow tissues to heal first)
Where not to apply
YES VM is for vulval and vaginal use only. Furthermore, avoid application to:
Eyes (rinse thoroughly with water if accidental contact)
Other mucous membranes
Broken skin or open wounds
Anal area for anal sex (use a dedicated anal lubricant instead)
When to seek medical advice
Several situations warrant medical assessment rather than continued self-treatment:
Furthermore, postmenopausal bleeding always warrants prompt GP review. Vaginal dryness shouldn't be assumed to be the cause without proper assessment.
Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Limited specific safety data exists for pregnancy. However:
YES VM contains no hormones
The ingredients are generally regarded as safe
Discuss with your midwife or GP before use during pregnancy
Vaginal dryness during breastfeeding is common; YES VM is generally considered safe
Avoid use in the first 6 weeks postpartum to allow tissue healing
Use after gynaecological surgery
After surgery, follow your surgeon's advice:
Don't use until tissue has healed (typically 6 weeks minimum)
Confirm with your surgical team before starting
YES VM may help with post-surgical dryness once healing is complete
Use during cancer treatment
YES VM is widely used during and after cancer treatment:
Suitable for women on aromatase inhibitors (anastrozole, letrozole, exemestane)
Suitable for women on tamoxifen
Suitable during chemotherapy (after acute mucositis has settled)
Suitable during and after pelvic radiotherapy (often recommended for radiation-induced dryness)
Coordinate with your oncology team for specific advice
Possible reactions
YES VM is generally well-tolerated. However, possible reactions include:
Mild stinging on application to severely inflamed tissue
Allergic reaction (rare; possible with any product)
Skin irritation (uncommon)
If you experience reactions, stop use. Furthermore, contact our pharmacist or GP for advice on alternatives.
Latex condom compatibility
YES VM is compatible with latex condoms. Furthermore, it is also compatible with polyisoprene condoms. As a result, no special precautions are needed for safer sex.
Important: the oil-based YES products (YES OB, YES COCO, YES O YES) are NOT compatible with latex. As a result, use YES WB (water-based) or YES VM for use with condoms.
Side effects of YES VM
YES VM has an excellent safety profile. Furthermore, side effects are uncommon.
Possible side effects
Mild stinging on initial application (usually settles within seconds)
Temporary tingling sensation
Sensitivity to one of the natural plant gum ingredients (rare)
Allergic reaction (very rare)
If reactions occur
If you experience problematic reactions:
Stop using the product
Rinse the area gently with cool water
Allow tissues to settle
Contact our pharmacist or GP for advice
Alternative products may suit better
Yellow Card reporting
You can report suspected adverse reactions to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. Reporting helps build the safety picture for everyone.
Interactions with YES VM
YES VM has minimal interaction risk. Furthermore, this is because of low systemic absorption.
Compatible products
Vaginal oestrogen (Vagifem, Vagirux, Imvaggis, Ovestin cream, Estring): compatible; can be used in combination
Other YES products (YES WB lubricant, YES CLEANSE wash): designed to work together
Latex and polyisoprene condoms: compatible
Systemic HRT (oral, transdermal, gel): no interaction
Most prescribed medications: no significant interaction
Avoid with
Other vaginal products applied at the same time (allow some hours between different products)
Furthermore, if you use multiple vaginal products, our pharmacist can advise on the best timing and sequence.
Frequently asked questions about YES VM
What is YES VM used for?
YES VM is a water-based vaginal moisturising gel for relief of vaginal dryness. Furthermore, common reasons for use include:
Menopausal and perimenopausal vaginal dryness
Vaginal atrophy from any cause
Dryness during or after breast cancer treatment
Dryness from medicines (some antidepressants, contraceptives, antihistamines)
Postpartum or breastfeeding-related dryness
Sjögren's syndrome and other autoimmune dryness
General intimate dryness and discomfort
Is YES VM a hormone treatment?
No. YES VM is completely hormone-free. Furthermore, this makes it suitable for women who can't or don't want to use hormones.
How is YES VM different from a lubricant?
Different products serve different purposes:
Moisturiser (YES VM): used regularly to maintain tissue moisture and comfort over days
Lubricant (YES WB, YES OB, YES COCO): used specifically during sex for reducing friction
Many women use both. Furthermore, they complement each other rather than competing.
Can I get YES VM on NHS prescription?
Yes. YES VM is on the UK Drug Tariff. As a result, your GP can prescribe it if appropriate. Many women buy it directly because:
It avoids needing a GP appointment
Prescription charges may be more expensive than buying directly
Direct purchase offers more flexibility
However, women with frequent prescription needs or prescription exemptions may prefer NHS supply.
How quickly does YES VM work?
Effects build over time:
Immediate soothing within minutes of application
Noticeable comfort improvement within the first week
Tissue restoration over 2-4 weeks
Maximum benefit at 4-8 weeks of regular use
How often should I apply YES VM?
Application frequency depends on need:
Initial phase: daily for 1-2 weeks
Maintenance: every 3 days as symptoms improve
Severe dryness: may need daily application long-term
Listen to your body and adjust accordingly
Can I use YES VM during pregnancy?
Discuss with your midwife or GP first. Furthermore, YES VM contains no hormones and the ingredients are generally regarded as safe. However, specific pregnancy safety data is limited.
Can I use YES VM while breastfeeding?
Generally yes. Furthermore, breastfeeding-related vaginal dryness is common, and YES VM is widely used during breastfeeding. However:
Avoid use in the first 6 weeks postpartum
Discuss with your midwife or GP if uncertain
Can I use YES VM if I have breast cancer or am on breast cancer treatment?
Yes. Furthermore, YES VM is widely used by women on breast cancer treatment because:
It contains no hormones
It is safe alongside aromatase inhibitors, tamoxifen, and chemotherapy
It addresses the severe dryness many women experience on these treatments
It is recommended by many breast care nurses and oncologists
As a result, YES VM has a particular place in cancer survivorship care.
Can I use YES VM with vaginal oestrogen?
Yes. Furthermore, combination is common and effective:
Apply vaginal oestrogen as prescribed (usually twice weekly after initial daily phase)
Use YES VM on the days you don't use the oestrogen
Or use both daily if needed
YES VM doesn't interfere with oestrogen absorption
Can I use YES VM with condoms?
Yes, with latex and polyisoprene condoms. Furthermore, YES VM is water-based and doesn't damage these condom materials. As a result, it is safe for use with safer sex practices.
Note: oil-based YES products (YES OB, YES COCO, YES O YES) damage latex. As a result, use YES WB or YES VM with latex condoms.
Is YES VM safe long-term?
Yes. Furthermore, YES VM is designed for ongoing use. As a result, many women use it continuously for months or years.
Long-term safety data supports continuous use. Furthermore, the ingredients have established safety profiles.
Can YES VM cause thrush?
YES VM is specifically formulated to avoid feeding yeast. Furthermore, key features include:
Glycerin-free (glycerin can feed yeast)
pH-matched (supports natural protective acidity)
Iso-osmolar (doesn't disrupt tissue balance)
As a result, YES VM is less likely to contribute to thrush than many commercial moisturisers and lubricants.
How long does the 100ml tube last?
Depends on use frequency:
Daily use: approximately 6-8 weeks
Every 3 days: approximately 4-5 months
Variable use: lasts longer with less frequent use
The 6-pack of applicators provides about 20 doses (5ml each), lasting around 2 months at maintenance dosing.
Can I use YES VM with diaphragms or cervical caps?
Yes. Furthermore, YES VM is compatible with diaphragms and cervical caps made from latex or silicone.
What if YES VM stings on application?
Mild stinging is uncommon but can happen, particularly:
On very inflamed or severely atrophic tissue
If small tears or irritated areas are present
During the first few applications
If stinging persists, contact our pharmacist or GP. Furthermore, alternative products or additional treatment may be needed.
How should I store YES VM?
Store at room temperature, in the original packaging. Keep tightly closed. Keep out of sight and reach of children. Use within the expiry date.
How do I order YES VM from Courier Pharmacy?
Add YES VM to your basket on courierpharmacy.co.uk. Choose the pack format that suits you. Furthermore, free pharmacist support is available before and after your purchase if you have questions about vaginal dryness, menopause, or related concerns.
More than a prescription: our community
Healthcare shouldn't only happen when you're paying for it.
Every fortnight we run free drop-in talks and clinics at Insomnia, Derby, from 10am to 12pm. We show up, even when it's free.
Bring a question, bring a friend, bring a stack of bewildering letters from another clinic. We'll sit with you.
We cover menopause, vaginal dryness, women's health, intimate health, allergies, asthma, MCAS, CFS, fibromyalgia, hair loss, weight management, digestive health, and whatever else people bring through the door. No appointment. No cost. No pressure. Just real support and treatment that fits.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only and isn't a substitute for personal medical advice. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional before starting or changing treatment for vaginal dryness, menopause, or other women's health concerns.
How this content was created
Written by the Courier Pharmacy editorial team and reviewed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist.
The content is grounded in the latest NHS, NICE NG23 (menopause: diagnosis and management), British Menopause Society (BMS) guidance, and women's health specialist consensus. Furthermore, it draws on the real questions patients bring to our drop-in clinics in Derby.
[2] National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2024) Menopause: identification and management (NG23). Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng23
