Patients’ advice and FAQs

ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser is a hormone free, soft white intravaginal gel.

ReplensMD provides relief from the symptoms of vaginal atrophy, vaginal dryness, itching, irritation and sexual discomfort . ReplensMD is not just for sex, but it is also a means of maintaining vaginal health and comfort. ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser has a pH that is compatible with a healthy vaginal environment.

ReplensMD is a class IIa Medical Device manufactured under hygienic pharmaceutical conditions.

ReplensMD adheres to the vaginal walls and lubricates the vaginal passage by moisturising dehydrated cells until they are shed. Used regularly, three times a week, ReplensMD also improves the elasticity of the vaginal walls as well as encouraging the return of natural secretions. Polycarbophil, being acidic, also helps to restore the natural acidity of the vagina.

ReplensMD is available in two formats:

• Prefilled single-use applicators
• Tube with reusable applicator

ReplensMD prefilled single use applicators are designed to deliver the correct dosage, when used as directed a small amount will remain in the applicator. View Instructions for ReplensMD prefilled applicators (download leaflet)

If using ReplensMD reusable applicators please make sure that the applicator is wrapped when you open the box for the first time. Do not use product if the applicator is unwrapped, the wrapper is torn or if the metal on the tube is punctured. View Instructions for ReplensMD reusable applicators. (download leaflet)

ReplensMD is available in three pack sizes:

• A three applicator pack (one week's treatment)
• A six applicator pack (two week's treatment)
• A twelve-pack of pre-filled single-use applicators (Available on prescription)
• A 35g tube with a reusable applicator (which allows up 12 applications or one month's treatment)

ReplensMD contains purified water (78.64% w/w 35g tube and 78.82% w/w individual applicators) as the active ingredient. This is slowly released from Polycarbophil - an inert, acidic, bioadhesive polymer which clings to the vaginal walls and holds the gel in place. ReplensMD also contains Mineral Oil, Glycerin, Hydrogenated Palm Oil Glyceride, Carbomer Homoploymer Type B, Sorbic Acid and Sodium Hydroxide. The ReplensMD 35g tube also contains Methylparaben (preservative). ReplensMD contains no animal derivatives.

Methylparaben is a preservative that can be found in hundreds of skin care products and cosmetics. It is present in ReplensMD 35g tubes to prevent the contents being affected by repeated exposure to the air. It is an essential ingredient as one tube can last up to a month and so be opened several times. There is no evidence to suggest that methylparabens are harmful in any product. There may be a few women who experience an allergic reaction but this is very rare and most will already be aware of their allergy. If you are allergic to the preservative then return to using the pre filled applicators.

By applying ReplensMD directly from the sealed applicator into the vagina, you are able to place it exactly where it is needed. Clinical studies have shown that the best results are achieved from regular use, three times a week in the morning.

This is only a recommendation as the body’s natural movement during the day will allow the gel to distribute itself around the vaginal passage for a greater level of comfort. ReplensMD can also be used perfectly safely in the evening before bed.

We recommend beginning with 3 applications a week depending on levels of dryness. ReplensMD can be used more frequently if necessary. Over time use can be reduced to once a week. Unfortunately there is no cure for vaginal dryness resulting from menopause, hysterectomy or medical treatments such as radiotherapy. If use is stopped completely then symptoms will eventually return.

You can use ReplensMD indefinitely. ReplensMD will cling to cells until they are shed naturally every 72 hours. None of the ingredients are absorbed into the body further than the vaginal walls.

As the condition improves you will experience a return of your natural secretions and will once again be able to enjoy spontaneous intercourse. Sex will no longer be painful or uncomfortable. It is not necessary to use ReplensMD immediately before intercourse. ReplensMD will not affect your partner during unprotected oral or penetrative sex. It is not poisonous and has no taste or smell. If, in the early stages of treatment, extra lubrication is required for intercourse, ReplensMD is safe to use with any over the counter water based lubricant. ReplensMD is not a contraceptive.

Independent investigations have evaluated the effect of Replens upon sperm and have concluded that it does not affect sperm motility and does not affect the sperms ability to penetrate ova.

ReplensMD is safe to use with condoms and other forms of contraception.

Yes, although the gel may make menses thicker and the blood flow may make it more difficult for the gel to deliver moisture to the cells than at other times.

A normal level of vaginal discharge is the natural result of your body shedding unwanted cells. After using ReplensMD, some women have reported experiencing a white, lumpy discharge. This is perfectly normal and is just a combination of the polycarbophil gel in ReplensMD and dead cells. Usually the greater the initial dryness, the more dead cells and debris will come away in the initial stages of use. This will improve and eventually disappear as moisture is regained. If the discharge has an unpleasant odour or colour this may be evidence of a pre-existing vaginal infection so you should consult your doctor.

No. None of the ingredients in ReplensMD can cause vaginal infections. In fact the pH reduction is more likely to act as a prevention to infection. However a sudden change in the vaginal environment may reveal an underlying infection which has not yet produced clinical signs.

No. None of the ingredients in ReplensMD can cause an infection such as cystitis. When starting treatment some women have experienced a tingling sensation in the vagina as ReplensMD acts to rebalance the vaginal pH. This can be confused with sensations of cystitis as the vagina and urethra are very close. If this is experienced it should cease after a few days.

ReplensMD cannot cause bleeding of any kind. Blood in discharge may be the result of extremely dry and cracked skin or menstruation. If it continues we suggest you see your doctor.

After pregnancy, the body needs time to get back to normal. Many lactating mothers will experience vaginal dryness and may wish to use ReplensMD. We do suggest waiting 6 weeks after a natural birth (after your 6 week or postnatal check) before using ReplensMD and ALWAYS under the guidance of your health professional.

We recommend that you seek advice from your gynecologist or health professional as to when you can begin using ReplensMD.

We recommend that you follow the advice of your health professional if you would like to use ReplensMD during pregnancy.

Loss of elasticity of the tissues due to vaginal dryness may weaken the muscles surrounding the bladder causing an increased urge to pass urine, this can be confused with incontinence.

Dryness and infections can be aggravated by soaps, perfumes and other chemical such as bath oils and shower gels. Disinfectants and antiseptics could also cause discomfort so it is best to avoid using anything other than lukewarm water or a soap free intimate wash.

Women sometimes worry that ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser might interfere with a smear test, but in fact, it can help to make the test more comfortable. Another benefit is that our three- and six-packs of pre-filled applicators are free from parabens and preservatives. The only constraint is that you should temporarily stop using ReplensMD vaginal moisturiser seven days before the test. That will ensure the smear does not pick up gel residue.

ReplensMD is available to purchase over the counter from Boots, Superdrug, The Co-Op Pharmacy, Lloyds Pharmacy and most local and independent pharmacies. If your pharmacy does not have the product on the shelf please speak to your pharmacist or pharmacy assistant who will be able to have the product delivered to your local store. Alternatively ReplensMD can be purchased online from www.anglianpharma.com/shop.

ReplensMD should be stored between 1-30°C and not be refrigerated or frozen as this can alter the consistency and efficiency of the gel.

If you have any other queries regarding ReplensMD please fill out the form above and a member of our team will aim to get back to you within one working day. Alternatively you can call the ReplensMD Helpline on +44 (0) 1256 772742. The help line is open 9am-4.30pm Monday-Friday. Staff will be able to help you further and are very used to discussing this common problem. You can also write to us at:

Anglian Pharma Sales and Marketing Ltd
3 & 4 Quidhampton Business Units
Polhampton Lane
Overton
Hampshire
RG25 3ED