Menopause: What to do When Sex is Painful

More than 60% of women in their fifties and sixties are sexually active, and they can face sexual health challenges due to menopause. One of the most important issues is called postmenopausal vaginal atrophy or more commonly, vaginal dryness, which can lead to painful sex. This is due to the physiological changes of menopause and the loss of estrogen. Nothing reduces libido more than painful sex!

Women have choices when dealing with painful sex due to menopausal dryness. Vaginal lubricants and moisturizers can help improve the discomfort, but only estrogen can restore health to the vaginal tissue. Hormone therapy can be used systemically, which means that your whole body is exposed to the hormones, or locally, which means only your vagina and bladder get the attention they deserve!

I always tell my patients that it really does not matter whether they are sexually active or not. Women are still entitled to a healthy vagina! That requires some care and attention. Since all women will experience this menopausal change, it is important to get comfortable talking about vaginal health with a health care professional. I start the conversation with my own patients thusly, “Let’s talk about your vagina!” Try a similar approach. Your healthcare professional may not be comfortable bringing up the topic until you do!

People who are sexually active live longer and healthier lives. So even though your libido is not what it used to be, which is a whole other menopause-related topic, use the motivation of health to be your inspiration. And since many of you may not have a partner, may not like your partner, or may not have a partner who is interested or capable of being sexual, you can always be sexual by yourself!

Get your facts about this and other topics related to menopause and sexual health, and continue to experience the joy of sex on your own terms as long as you are able.

Tara Allmen, MD Credentials:
– Board Certified Gynecologist and Nationally Certified Menopause Practitioner
– New York City’s Leading Expert In Menopause
– President, North American Menopause Society Foundation
– Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology
– New York City’s Top Gynecologist, 2015
– Five Star Rating From Doctor’s Choice Awards
– Five Star Rating From HealthGrades