AARP Hearing Center
If you are experiencing menopausal symptoms, it’s important to talk with your health care providers to explore the most suitable treatment options for your individual needs.
Key takeaways
- Hormone therapy and localized estrogen treatments can alleviate vaginal dryness.
- Improve comfort and pleasure using vaginal moisturizers and silicone-based lubricants during sex.
Summary
Painful sex after menopause is an issue that affects many women, but there are effective solutions. Dr. Maureen Slattery, an OB-GYN, recommends exploring various treatment options to alleviate symptoms such as vaginal dryness and discomfort. Key steps include considering hormone therapy, localized estrogen treatments, and nonhormonal approaches like vaginal moisturizers and silicone-based lubricants.
Using a vaginal moisturizer with hyaluronic acid two or three times a week can help maintain hydration, while silicone-based lubricants can provide immediate relief during sex.
These solutions can help women enhance their comfort and pleasure and regain a fulfilling sex life. Consult with your health care providers to determine the best treatment for your individual needs.
The key takeaways and summary were created with the assistance of generative AI. An AARP editor reviewed and refined the content for accuracy and clarity.
Full transcript
[0:00:00] Sex doesn't need to end at menopause.
[0:00:02] Many couples have healthy sex lives well into their later years,
[0:00:06] but this change of life can bring some unwelcome vaginal pain,
[0:00:09] discomfort, and a diminishing libido.
[0:00:12] As an OB-GYN, let me reassure you,
[0:00:14] there are things you can do to help you regain pleasure in the bedroom.
[0:00:18] When women come into my office suffering
[0:00:20] from vaginal changes brought on by menopause,
[0:00:22] they often ask me about hormone therapy.
[0:00:25] Hormone therapy can be an effective and safe treatment
[0:00:28] for menopausal symptoms as well as sexual function,
[0:00:30] especially within the first ten years of being menopausal.
[0:00:34] But I usually only prescribe hormone therapy for women who experience
[0:00:37] more severe symptoms outside of the scope of vaginal discomfort.
[0:00:42] You and your doctor should assess your individual situation
[0:00:45] because some risks are associated with hormone treatment
[0:00:48] after you reach a certain age.
[0:00:49] A different option that I often suggest for
[0:00:52] moderate to severe vaginal discomfort and dryness
[0:00:55] is a localized, low-dose estrogen.
[0:00:57] This helps by replenishing and improving
[0:00:59] vaginal tissue elasticity and moisture,
[0:01:02] making sex a lot more pleasurable.
[0:01:05] This typically comes in a cream and is applied directly to the vagina.
[0:01:09] The advantage of localized estrogen, rather than other hormone therapies,
[0:01:12] is that it has minimal absorption into the bloodstream,
[0:01:15] so it only treats the area where it's applied.
[0:01:18] Then there are several non-hormonal treatments that may help.
[0:01:21] You regularly moisturise your face, right?
[0:01:24] Well, consider adding a moisturizing routine to your vaginal area as well.
[0:01:28] You can find several vaginal moisturizers at your local pharmacy.
[0:01:32] Look for one with hyaluronic acid.
[0:01:34] Although the term acid might sound concerning,
[0:01:36] hyaluronic acid is a compound that attracts and retains moisture.
[0:01:40] It helps keep vaginal tissue hydrated
[0:01:42] and promotes a more balanced pH environment.
[0:01:45] I recommend applying it 2 to 3 times a week for overall comfort,
[0:01:49] even if you're not regularly having sex.
[0:01:52] While vaginal moisturizers help maintain hydration,
[0:01:55] using silicone based lubricants can provide immediate relief
[0:01:58] from dryness, friction, and discomfort during sex.
[0:02:02] For menopausal women,
[0:02:04] I recommend silicone-based lubricants over water-based ones.
[0:02:07] Silicone lubes not only add moisture and decrease friction,
[0:02:11] but they're thicker and they don't absorb as quickly.
[0:02:14] But if you prefer water-based lubricants
[0:02:16] or have found that it works for you, then use it.
[0:02:19] I would also avoid lubricants with added scents or warming effects.
[0:02:24] While they might seem enjoyable,
[0:02:25] they often contain irritating chemicals.
[0:02:28] If you prefer going the natural route,
[0:02:30] consider vitamin E oil or coconut oil.
[0:02:33] Both are safe for vaginal tissue.
[0:02:35] Every woman deserves to experience the joy of a fulfilling sex life.
[0:02:39] Menopausal changes don't have to hold you back.
[0:02:42] There are many treatments available to enhance your comfort and pleasure.
[0:02:46] For more content like this, visit aarp.org/InTheMood.
