Can Accutane cause vagina dryness and painful sex?
Question posted by Cmburtsco on 24 March 2020
Last updated on 19 August 2020 by lolanicolas
I am 26 years old and have been on Accutane for 3 months. I have the normal side effects of dry lips, nose, and eyes. However, in the past month my Accutane dose got increased to 60 mg. For the past 3 weeks it has been painful when I had sex. My dermatologist says it’s due to vagina dryness. I always use lube with latex condoms (also the oral contraceptive pill). I’ve decided to stop the medication because I read personal stories this side effect is permanent and it’s a scary side effect for a young adult. Is it true it’s permanent and is it a common side effect?
My dermatologist suggested going back to 40mg daily and using Vaseline to help with the dryness. I’ve used vaseline for 2 days and it feels less irritated. However, I’m currently abstaining from sex and Accutane until things improve completely. I want to be sexually active with my partner and I don’t want vaginal side effects. I did visit my OB/GYN about this who said she hadn’t heard of this side effect but to try to abstain from Accutane to see if it improves things. My STI labs were normal.
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Answers
LO
lolanicolas
19 Aug 2020
Hello, I recently stopped this medication for the same reason. Have you seen improvements since you stopped?
Votes: +0
MA
masso
24 March 2020
I did research your question and came up with the following:
Women have reported vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, loss of libido, genital anesthesia, and anorgasmia as a result of isotretinoin treatment, any of which may accompany altered menses, loss of menstruation and infertility.
I now Accutane well, I used it when I was in my 20´s I am 51, it works well, but it is dangerous medication and has too many side effects.
