Wednesday, 10 July 2013

Menopause and painful sex


I am a 45 year old female and have just started menopause. I now find sexual intercourse quite painful. It never used to be like that. What can I do about it?

During menopause, the vaginal secretions diminish. In addition the  vaginal tissues loosen and become thin. This often results in painful intercourse. The pain can vary from mild to severe. However, there are several treatments you may want to try. Use a vaginal estrogen cream. There is a flexible vaginal ring which is placed inside the vagina and it releases low doses of estrogen. It takes a few weeks to get the full effect but it will make sex better. Also use lubricants liberally during sex. Lubricants help decrease friction. 

I do not recommend the use of lidocaine which is a local anesthetic. While this chemical can take away the pain, it also numbs the pleasurable sensations. Finally, you may want to try intercourse with you on top of your partner. This position is less painful than the routine missionary position.

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