The vagina is a potential site for the local and systemic delivery of drugs. Presently, significant attention is given to the development of vaginal formulations (‘microbicides') that prevent sexual acquisition of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted diseases. Acceptability of vaginal dosage forms may vary among women from different geographical and socioeconomic backgrounds. Therefore, in the drug development process, selection of an appropriate dosage form is crucial for consumer acceptance and use. The primary objective of this study was to survey vaginal preparations available in the Indian market to determine the types of products that are most frequently used by Indian women. In addition, this survey provides information about the active ingredients and dosage forms of these products. The physicochemical properties of selected products were compared in order to help formulation scientists to design vaginal formulations with desired properties. Indian vaginal products are available in several different dosage forms. Tablets are marketed most frequently (38%), followed by gels (15%) and creams (15%). The evaluated products varied greatly in their physicochemical properties such as colour, pH, disintegration, viscosity, osmotic pressure and bioadhesive properties. The information can serve as reference on vaginal products in the Indian market and to aid in the development of new vaginal formulations, especially for India and other tropical countries.