Menopause and Painful Sex: What You Need to Know
Menopause and Painful Sex
What You Need to Know
By
Barbara Dehn, NP
HealthyWomen Health Advisory Council Member
Did you know that painful sex is a common symptom of menopause? It’s not surprising if you didn’t. Information from a recent survey titled What Do You Know About Your Sexual Health After Menopause? has provided insights on one of the most common and troubling symptoms of menopause.
The HealthyWomen survey, sponsored by women’s health company Duchesnay USA, found that the majority of women surveyed (62%) reported experiencing painful sex, but only half recognized that this pain could be a symptom related to menopause
Unlike other symptoms of menopause, including sleeping issues and hot flashes, painful sex will not go away on its own and may worsen if left untreated. These findings underscore the need for improved communication between women and their healthcare professionals as well as general education and treatment options.
69% of women surveyed did not know that treatment options exist for painful sex due to menopause. However, there are prescription options indicated to treat this condition, including a once daily, hormone-free oral pill. If you experience moderate to severe pain during intercourse, talk to your healthcare provider about your treatment options. For more, please visit healthywomen.org/painfulsex.
