ABSTRACT
Objective: To compare severity of pain and determine side effects from digital examination between using Aloe vera gel and K-Y gel as a lubricant.Material and Method: This study included 400 patients who required per vaginal examination from February 1,1999 to June 30, 1999. Aloe vera gel was used as a lubricant in 200 patients and K-Y gel was used in other 200 patients. Visual analogue scale was used to assess the level of pain during digital examination. Mailing questionnaire was used to evaluate side effects during the first week after examination.Results: There were no significant differences in the level of pain and side effects between using Aloe vera gel and K-Y gel.Conclusion: The level of pain and side effects were not significantly different between using Aloe vera gel and K-Y gel. Therefore, Aloe vera gel should be promoted to be an alternative lubricant for digital examination due to its lower cost.Key words: K-Y gel, Aloe vera gel, lubricant, per vaginal examination