A Q&A with Dr. Shyama Mathews for Playground’s School of Sexology
When you hear the words “vaginal suppository,” your brain might immediately flash to yeast infections, menopause, and unsexy vibes. But what if we told you vaginal suppositories are making a comeback — and this time, it’s all about comfort, confidence, and better sex?
We sat down with board-certified OB/GYN and gynecological surgeon Dr. Shyama Mathews to get the lowdown on why vaginal hydration matters, what makes hyaluronic acid vaginal care a total game-changer, and how Playground’s Miracle Melts are helping women feel more like themselves — no matter their age or hormone status.
How Vaginal Suppositories Support Sexual Comfort
Vaginal suppositories designed for dryness or moisture restoration work by delivering hydration directly to vaginal tissue, from the inside out. Unlike topical lubricants that coat the surface temporarily, a moisture-targeting suppository absorbs into the vaginal wall, helping reduce friction, sensitivity, and discomfort during sex.
For many women, vaginal dryness is the primary barrier to comfortable intimacy, triggered by hormonal shifts, stress, postpartum changes, or perimenopause. A vaginal suppository used consistently in the days before sexual activity can help restore baseline moisture levels, making arousal and penetration more comfortable without relying solely on in-the-moment lubrication.
🧴 First things first: What are vaginal suppositories used for these days?
Dr. Mathews: Most people think of vaginal suppositories as something you use to treat infections — and yes, there are boric acid and antibiotic versions for that. But that’s just one slice of the pie.
There are also vaginal suppositories, like Playground Miracle Melts, that are made specifically for hydration and comfort. These can deliver ingredients like hyaluronic acid or other soothing agents directly to vaginal tissue. It’s kind of like applying moisturizer — but internally.
They can also help maintain the vaginal microbiome, soothe inflammation, and just support overall vaginal wellness. You don’t need to be in menopause to benefit from them.
💧So how does hyaluronic acid work vaginally? Isn’t that more of a skincare thing?
Dr. Mathews: It is popular in skincare — for good reason. Hyaluronic acid is excellent at attracting and holding moisture. When you use it vaginally, it creates a hydrated layer on the vaginal walls, helping with lubrication, elasticity, and healing.
It works differently from hormones like estrogen, which stimulate your body to produce moisture from the inside out. Hyaluronic acid offers localized, direct hydration — so it’s a great option for people who can’t use hormones or don’t want to.
👀 Is this just a menopause product in disguise? Or who else can benefit?
Dr. Mathews: Vaginal dryness is often thought of as a “menopause thing,” but that’s a big misconception. Plenty of younger women — even in their 20s or 30s — experience dryness.
Some common reasons?
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Postpartum or while breastfeeding
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Being on birth control
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Taking antihistamines or antidepressants
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Going through stress or hormone changes
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Cancer treatments
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Or just…your unique biology
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort with sex, persistent itching, or frequent UTIs — dryness could be the missing link. And that’s when hydration from something like a hyaluronic acid vaginal suppository can make a huge difference.
😬 Speaking of UTIs… can dryness really cause them?
Dr. Mathews: Definitely. The vaginal and urinary tracts are neighbors, and they’re both influenced by hormones.
When vaginal tissue becomes dry, it’s more fragile and prone to tiny tears — especially during intercourse. That creates entry points for bacteria like E. coli to travel into the urethra. Plus, vaginal dryness can alter your pH, which normally helps fend off harmful bacteria.
That’s why vaginal suppositories for UTI prevention actually work: by keeping tissues hydrated and resilient, you maintain a healthy barrier that protects against infection.
✨ Let’s talk Miracle Melts. Why are these so special?
Dr. Mathews: Miracle Melts are one of the few hormone-free products I confidently recommend to patients. They’re easy to insert, they melt with your body heat, and they deliver medical-grade hyaluronic acid straight to where it’s needed.
You can start feeling the difference in as little as a week, and if you use them consistently — every 2–3 days — you’ll see even better results over time.
They’re great solo or paired with hormone replacement therapy if that’s part of your plan. They’re also safe to use during postpartum recovery, after cancer treatments, or at any time when hormones aren’t on the table.
💬 What’s one thing you wish more people knew about vaginal care?
Dr. Mathews: That vaginal health is overall health. I see so many women who dismiss their discomfort because they think it’s “normal” or “not a big deal.” And unfortunately, many providers aren’t initiating these conversations either.
But if you’re experiencing dryness, pain during sex, itching, or just feel like something’s off — it’s worth addressing. Vaginal discomfort shouldn’t be something we silently put up with. Products like Miracle Melts help us take that power back and prioritize pleasure, not just symptom relief.
💖 Final thoughts?
Dr. Mathews: Don’t wait until something’s wrong to care about your vaginal wellness. Hydration is prevention. Comfort is confidence. And honestly? Better sex starts with a well-moisturized vagina.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are vaginal suppositories only for infections?
No. Some suppositories, like boric acid or antibiotic ones, do treat infections. But others like hyaluronic acid, are made purely for hydration and comfort. Think of these as an internal moisturizer rather than a medicated treatment. The right one depends on what you're actually dealing with.
2. Do you need to be in menopause to use them?
No, that's a common myth. Dryness affects women in their 20s and 30s too, often due to birth control, postpartum recovery, or stress.
3. How is hyaluronic acid different from estrogen?
Estrogen encourages your body to naturally produce more moisture over time. Hyaluronic acid draws in and holds moisture directly at the tissue, no hormones needed.
4. Can vaginal dryness cause UTIs?
Yes. Dry tissue is more prone to tiny tears and pH imbalance, which makes it easier for bacteria to cause infection.
5. How are they different from lubricants?
Lubricants offer short-term relief during sex. Suppositories hydrate tissue over time, giving more lasting comfort at the source.
Ready to feel like yourself again — and maybe even better? Shop Miracle Melts and treat your vulva to the hydration she deserves.
For deep, lasting comfort and renewed intimacy, try Playground's Ultimate Hydration Bundle
