Effect of Red Clover Vaginal Cream on Dyspareunia and Sexual Satisfaction in Postmenopausal Women: A Triple-Blinded Clinical Trial

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Introduction: One of the common complaints in postmenopausal women is the decreased sexual activity, desire, and satisfaction due to the reduction of estrogen and androgen hormones. This study aimed to investigate the effect of red clover vaginal cream (RCVC) on dyspareunia and sexual satisfaction in postmenopausal women. Method: This study was performed as a triple-blinded clinical trial on 76 postmenopausal women referred to Health Center No. 1 in Ahvaz during 2018. The women were divided randomly in two groups of A and B. Group A received RCVC 2% and Group B used a placebo applicator every night for eight weeks. It should be noted that the severity of dyspareunia was assessed with a checklist and sexual satisfaction by Larson questionnaire. Data were analyzed using paired t-test, Chi-square, Mann-Whitney, independent t, and Friedman tests along with SPSS software (Version 22) at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Mean post-intervention score of sexual satisfaction in RCVC group was significantly higher than the placebo group (p < 0.001). In the subjects who used RCVC, there was a significant improvement in pain during intercourse (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, the use of RCVC for 8 weeks could increase the libido, and reduce the pain during intercourse. More studies are needed to prove the effect and safety of this herbal drug.