AktivGel

Question: What is VagiVital AktivGel?
Answer: VagiVital AktivGel is a hormone-free vaginal gel intended to relieve and treat symptoms in women with dryness and/or irritation/itching in the vagina, pain during intercourse and/or pain during urination.

Question: What ingredients are in VagiVital AktivGel?
Answer: AktivGel contains natural ingredients and is free from both perfume and soap. The contents are: water, hypromellose, benzoic acid, lactic acid, and sodium hydroxide. The small amount of sodium hydroxide is to adjust the pH and is completely harmless. The gel is also hormone-free and has a pH of 3.8.

Question: Who can use VagiVital AktivGel?
Answer: All women of all ages with symptoms such as dryness and/or irritation/itching in the vagina, pain during intercourse and/or pain during urination.

Question: What is vaginal atrophy?
Answer: Vaginal atrophy is the medical term for dry mucous membranes. Vaginal atrophy can cause symptoms such as itching, burning, discomfort and pain during intercourse as well as pain and urgency during urination. One may also feel a burning sensation in the vagina. Vaginal atrophy can also cause tenderness and redness outside the vaginal opening. The symptoms can be lifelong and usually occur a few years after menstruation has ceased (menopause). In some cases, menopause can occur as early as in the 40s. During menopause, secretion production in the vagina decreases and the mucous membrane thins and becomes more fragile due to the reduced estrogen production.

Question: What causes vaginal atrophy?
Answer: Secretion production decreases after menstruation (menopause) has ceased and the mucous membrane becomes more fragile due to the decreasing estrogen production. When the body has reduced estrogen production, vaginal atrophy can occur. This affects women during menopause but can also occur in younger women during breastfeeding or as a result of illness or medication.

Question: How common is vaginal atrophy?
Answer: Vaginal atrophy occurs in 40–60% of all women after menopause.

Question: How does vaginal atrophy differ from other genital complaints?
Answer: Symptoms of dry mucous membranes can be confused with other genital complaints, such as yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. With vaginal atrophy, the woman does not experience discharge.

Question: Can vaginal atrophy be cured?
Answer: Symptoms of vaginal atrophy (dryness, burning, irritation, itching, and pain during intercourse) during and after menopause are lifelong and usually occur a few years after menstruation has ceased (menopause), sometimes as early as age 40. It cannot be cured but symptoms of vaginal atrophy can be reduced or completely disappear with treatment such as VagiVital AktivGel.

Question: Is AktivGel completely hormone-free?
Answer: Absolutely! VagiVital AktivGel is completely hormone-free!

Question: How does AktivGel differ from other similar products?
Answer: AktivGel is completely hormone-free. Additionally, the gel has a smart applicator with a standardized dose for each use. The gel is free from fats, making the applicator easy to clean with warm water. Above all, AktivGel is a Swedish product with clinically proven effects.

Question: Is AktivGel the same as Vagisan?
Answer: No, VagiVital AktivGel is a gel that does not contain fats, which means it does not feel sticky. The applicator is easy to clean because it does not contain fats.

Question: Is AktivGel the same as Vagifem?
Answer: No. Vagifem contains hormones.

Question: Can AktivGel be used in combination with hormone preparations such as Vagifem or Ovesterin?
Answer: Yes. You can use VagiVital AktivGel on days when you do not use hormone preparations such as Ovesterin or Vagifem. Using both at the same time can become very sticky with both gel and cream or gel and suppositories.

Question: Can VagiVital AktivGel really work without hormones?
Answer: Clinical studies have shown that 79% of women became symptom-free or significantly improved with VagiVital AktivGel. The study was conducted by professors in gynecology at Karolinska University Hospital, Uppsala Academic Hospital, and Norrlands University Hospital.

Question: What is the mechanism of action?
Answer: VagiVital AktivGel normalizes pH, affects the mucous membrane by stimulating the growth of surface cells and releases water to the mucous membrane over time. This occurs partly through the gel’s physiological properties.

Question: The gel has no active pharmacological ingredient, can it really work then?
Answer: Yes, the gel is formulated to show results comparable to clinically proven hormone treatments.

Question: How long is a treatment?
Answer: Treatment is given daily with a standardized dose using the applicator for 12 weeks. Thereafter as needed.

Question: Will I be completely symptom-free after treatment?
Answer: In studies, 79% of participants became completely symptom-free or significantly better after using VagiVital AktivGel. In a customer survey, 81% of participants experienced a clear improvement and 85% would recommend VagiVital AktivGel to a friend.

Question: Is it risk-free to use VagiVital during menstruation?
Answer: Studies have not specifically examined menstruating women, but it should not be dangerous to use the gel during menstruation, though it may feel inconvenient. If you use a tampon, it will of course also "absorb" some of the gel, meaning you won’t get as good an effect. The gel adheres to the mucous membrane and does not run out, but during the heavier part of menstruation, we recommend taking a break. With atrophy (dry mucous membranes), it may also be wise to choose something other than tampons as they can dry out the vagina if you have light menstruation; a better alternative might be a pad or menstrual cup if you feel comfortable with that.

Question: Can VagiVital AktivGel be used during pregnancy?
Answer: Studies so far have been conducted on women with vaginal atrophy after menopause. No scientific studies have been done during pregnancy, so documentation is lacking.

Question: Can I use AktivGel during breastfeeding?
Answer: Breastfeeding women can use AktivGel.

Question: Does AktivGel help against urinary tract infections?
Answer: We have no clinical studies showing that the gel works against urinary tract infections, but many of our customers report fewer urinary tract infections as the gel treats and relieves dry mucous membranes, which often can be the cause behind urinary tract infections.

Question: Can vaginal discharge occur after long-term use of VagiVital AktivGel?
Answer: After long-term use of VagiVital AktivGel, the vagina can to some extent return to a normal environment, meaning white discharge may occur. If the discharge is discolored or smells bad, you should contact a doctor.

Question: Can you use your finger to apply the gel instead of the applicator?
Answer: You can use your finger instead, but it is naturally important to do so carefully and with a clean finger.

Question: Can you overdose on VagiVital AktivGel?
Answer: The risk of overdose is minimal.

Question: It looks like thin plastic flakes are coming off the applicator. How can that be?
Answer: Gel that is not washed off after use dries and forms transparent flakes on the applicator. It is therefore important to wash the applicator thoroughly under running water after use.

Question: Should AktivGel only be used internally with the applicator or can the gel also be used externally if needed?
Answer: It is normal to be dry also on the outside of the vagina. Women who have tested the product in clinical trials (about 500 patients) have in some cases also used it externally. They applied some gel on a finger and then rubbed it externally on the vagina. It has worked for them in most cases. AktivGel contains no hormones and is completely harmless.

Question: Can AktivGel be used as a lubricant?
Answer: AktivGel can be used as a lubricant and works initially, but then the gel itself dries up as it tends to absorb into the mucous membrane. The product is primarily not developed to be a lubricant for intercourse but is developed to eliminate dryness in the vaginal mucous membranes, which is beneficial in the long term. This makes the mucous membranes much more lubricated. Our studies show that users of AktivGel report significantly less dryness in the vaginal mucous membranes. Furthermore, women say that pain during intercourse is greatly reduced. Women who previously had bleeding during intercourse say it disappeared after using AktivGel. VagiVital AktivGel is fragrance-free and does not irritate the mucous membranes but instead helps them regain the same mucous membrane as before menopause. Many women who have used AktivGel also say that by using VagiVital AktivGel continuously, they do not have to worry about preparing for possible intercourse. Studies on AktivGel show that women who had bleeding during intercourse (before the study) become completely free of bleeding after intercourse when using VagiVital AktivGel.

Question: How should I dose AktivGel?
Answer: In the clinical studies we conducted with VagiVital AktivGel, we see very good results after 30 days (4 weeks). Results improve somewhat further at the 12-week follow-up. Therefore, we normally recommend daily use for 12 weeks (3 tubes) and then switch to use as needed. In user surveys, most say they use the product daily for 30 days. After that, the most common is to switch to use every other or every third day. You can expect improved results after 30 days of daily use, but we recommend 90 days. Thereafter, use as needed.

Question: What happens if I stop using AktivGel?
Answer: Our studies show that the effect disappears over time. After 14 days without treatment, the effect is halved. Our recommendation is that after 3 months of use, switch to using our gel every other day. Test and adjust until you are satisfied! VagiVital contains no hormones and is completely harmless as a long-term treatment.

Question: How do I dose the applicator correctly?
Answer: We know some customers push gel out the side of the applicator. This is easy to do. Then the dose is not sufficient as intended. The effect is that the unused gel is rinsed away when washing the applicator. We have ensured that all products we send out contain between 36-37 grams, which corresponds to the same in ml. One dose is 1 ml; tests show that when gel is taken out of the tube, about 3.5 grams (3.5 ml) remain. The rest should be enough for 30 doses. Please click the link showing an instructional video on how to fill the applicator: https://youtu.be/guRFKIzFQ4U

Question: Can VagiVital replace the estrogen ring I otherwise use?
Answer: Our product VagiVital AktivGel has very good clinical data with more than 500 women participating and more than 80% of users experience relief from vaginal atrophy. The studies were conducted at Karolinska Hospital in Huddinge, Akademiska Hospital, and Norrlands University Hospital. Patients have been especially satisfied with the effect on vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse as well as burning and itching. Furthermore, women who had problems with pain during urination were completely helped. We know some women use our product in combination with estrogen. However, we have no studies on combination use. The great thing about our product is that you cannot overdose it, as it contains no hormones.

Question: I have had less discharge since I started using AktivGel, what should I do?
Answer: Our clinical studies show the gel has very good effect if you have extremely dry mucous membranes. Normally, we recommend continuing to use AktivGel daily for 12 weeks and then as needed. If you personally experience less discharge as a problem, you should stop using AktivGel and consult a gynecologist.

Question: It stings when I use AktivGel, what should I do?
Answer: It is not uncommon to experience stinging initially when starting to use VagiVital AktivGel. This is usually because the mucous membranes in the vagina are dry and fragile. Our recommendation is to continue with AktivGel but if the stinging continues, take the gel every other day at first.

Question: How often should I use VagiVital AktivGel?
Answer: VagiVital AktivGel is based on several years of research; it heals the driest mucous membranes and relieves both itching and irritation by adhering to the mucous membrane and releasing moisture over time, restoring pH and stimulating growth of the mucous membrane’s surface layer. It is completely hormone-free and suitable for women of all ages and recommended by gynecologists. The gel is harmless and we recommend starting with a 90-day course and then using "as needed," which can be anything from daily to twice a week or less frequently.

Question: Can a doctor prescribe Vagivital Gel and is it then covered by the high-cost protection?
Answer: Unfortunately, our product is not included in the high-cost protection. However, there is an option to buy it cheaper on our website by ordering a 3-pack, which gives you a discount on the order.

Question: Is there a "trick" to easily clean the plastic tube?
Answer: It is fine to use very hot tap water. Heating to 100 degrees is not good. An easier way to clean it is to take apart the applicator; you can see how to do this in the user instructions. You can also watch our instructional video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guRFKIzFQ4U&ab_channel=VagiVital

Question: When should I use AktivGel, morning or evening?
Answer: It does not matter what time of day you take the gel; in our clinical studies it was taken in the evening, but this is not a requirement.

Question: What should you consider when using VagiVital AktivGel?
Answer:

• Important to read the user instructions
• Do not use VagiVital AktivGel if you have an infection in the vagina (for example, a yeast infection); in such cases, you should consult a doctor
• The integrity of condoms or diaphragms when used simultaneously with VagiVital AktivGel can be affected and should therefore be avoided

Question: What side effects have been reported?
Answer: Possible side effects:

• After applying VagiVital AktivGel, temporary mild local irritation/itching/burning or slight bleeding may occur. If this persists, stop using VagiVital AktivGel and consult your doctor or pharmacist.
• With long-term use of VagiVital AktivGel, some patients may temporarily experience less discharge. If symptoms persist, stop using AktivGel and consult your doctor or pharmacist.
• In rare cases, use of similar products has caused, for example, urinary tract infections, kidney infections, or pelvic pain. If this occurs, contact a doctor and discontinue use of AktivGel.

Question: Does VagiVital AktivGel also work for younger women?
Answer: Yes! The gel works for all women! Episodes of intimate discomfort and dry mucous membranes can occur at different times in life, for example after breastfeeding, cancer treatment, illness, or menopause.

Question: What should I do if VagiVital AktivGel does not give the desired effect?
Answer: You can repeat the course if needed, but please consult a doctor to discuss the best way to proceed.

Question: Is VagiVital AktivGel available at pharmacies?
Answer: Yes. VagiVital AktivGel is available at all major pharmacy online stores and in about 850 pharmacy stores across the country. We expect distribution to grow quickly and many more stores will be added during the year.

Question: Is VagiVital AktivGel available without a prescription?
Answer: Yes.

Question: Who is behind VagiVital AktivGel?
Answer: It is made by the Swedish company Peptonic Medical AB. A Swedish company that has researched improved women's health since 2009 and in 2018 released its first product in the form of VagiVital AktivGel.

Question: Can you use VagiVital AktivGel if you have had breast cancer?
Answer: Yes. Since it is hormone-free, there is no risk of negative impact from a possible recurrence.

Question: Can you use VagiVital AktivGel if you are on, for example, aromatase inhibitors (common in breast cancer – now recommended for up to 10 years)?
Answer: Since VagiVital AktivGel is hormone-free, there is no risk that the product affects your own estrogen production. Currently, a study is ongoing at Karolinska University Hospital with women on aromatase inhibitors. Peptonic Medical AB aims to show that AktivGel also has good effects on this very difficult-to-treat group. Note that the CE marking of the product means that customers/patients on aromatase inhibitors can also use it.