Back to July 2004: Managing Menopausal Symptoms
Reason/solution for vaginal pain during sex?
- Question from Website Question: Is there an explanation and solution to vaginal pain during intercourse? The pain is greater the dryer I am, but still uncomfortable when I am lubricated.
- Answers —Mindy Goldman, M.D.: When someone becomes menopausal and the ovaries stop producing estrogen, most women will notice some vaginal dryness. This is because the vaginal tissues are estrogen sensitive. With loss of estrogen, the vaginal walls tend to get thinner, and blood vessels can be closer to the surface. Many women will find intercourse uncomfortable. Typically, we will try treating this first with lubricants like Astroglide, because these are not hormonally based. If this doesn't work, even if you have enough vaginal lubrication, the vaginal Estring might be beneficial for you. The other thing that is important is trying different positions when you are having sex to try and alleviate discomfort.
- Marisa Weiss, M.D., Breastcancer.org president and founder: One of the most effective lubricants in the vagina is the one you can make yourself when your vagina is stimulated and excited. You may be more receptive and able to enjoy intercourse if you have good foreplay. The vagina is an amazing structure that can do all kinds of cool tricks for you. It can get wet, longer and wider, and more elastic with sexual stimulation. This may be a good time to explore your fantasies, sexual toys, oral sex, or other things that can help get you ready for action.