Painful Sex During Menopause: What to Know

Painful sex, also known as dyspareunia, is a common problem during menopause. It can be caused by a number of factors, including:

* Changes in hormone levels: Estrogen and progesterone are two hormones that play an important role in sexual function. When these hormones decline during menopause, it can lead to a decrease in vaginal lubrication and thinning of the vaginal walls, which can make sex painful.

* Vaginal dryness: Lack of estrogen can also cause the vagina to become dry and irritated, which can make sex painful.

* Menopause-related health conditions: Some health conditions that are common during menopause, such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, can also contribute to painful sex.

* Medications: Some medications, such as antidepressants and chemotherapy drugs, can cause vaginal dryness and other side effects that can make sex painful.

What can be done to relieve painful sex during menopause?

There are a number of things that can be done to relieve painful sex during menopause, including:

* Use vaginal lubricants: Over-the-counter vaginal lubricants can help to reduce vaginal dryness and make sex more comfortable.

* Use a vaginal moisturizer: Vaginal moisturizers can help to keep the vagina moist and prevent irritation.

* Apply a topical estrogen cream: Topical estrogen creams can help to increase estrogen levels in the vagina and improve vaginal health.

* Oral contraceptives: Oral contraceptives can help to regulate hormone levels and reduce vaginal dryness.

* Low-dose antidepressants: Low-dose antidepressants can help to improve mood and reduce pain.

* Pelvic floor physical therapy: Pelvic floor physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor and improve vaginal health.

If you are experiencing painful sex during menopause, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine the cause of your pain and recommend the best treatment options.