Menopause: Addressing Painful Intercourse and Hormonal Changes

Please provide the content you would like me to translate into English

Hello Doctor: I am nearly 40 years old, have two daughters, and the frequency of sexual intercourse with my husband has been gradually decreasing.
Even when we are together, I experience dryness and pain in the genital area, making penetration difficult.
I would like to ask you: is this a sign of perimenopause or could it be due to hormonal imbalances? If it is the latter, please advise: 1.
Should I see a doctor at a hospital for hormone treatment, or can I purchase it at a regular pharmacy? 2.
Can an average woman use hormone therapy without any issues or symptoms? When is it most appropriate? 3.
How long will it take to see improvement after starting treatment?

Yiwun, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/02/20

Dr. Chen Changfu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Just because you feel dryness and pain in the vagina during intercourse, you suspect that you are approaching menopause and that it is due to low female hormones.
This is quite presumptuous and hasty.
Do not impulsively purchase female hormones from a regular pharmacy for trial use.
First, visit a gynecologist to check if there are any gynecological conditions, such as vaginitis, that may be causing these symptoms.
Humans are thinking beings, and our thoughts (desires) significantly influence our physiological responses.
Therefore, foreplay during intercourse should not be rushed, as it can affect the physiological responses of the female reproductive tract.
If you are eager to understand the true cause of the dryness and pain during intercourse, I recommend temporarily using a vaginal lubricant during intercourse, which is a more effective and safer option.

Reply Date: 2008/02/20

More Info

Menopause is a natural biological process that typically occurs in women between the ages of 45 and 55, marking the end of menstrual cycles and fertility. However, the transition can begin years earlier, often referred to as perimenopause. Symptoms can vary widely, and one common issue many women face is painful intercourse, also known as dyspareunia, which can be attributed to hormonal changes, particularly a decrease in estrogen levels.

The symptoms you are experiencing, such as vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse, are indeed common during perimenopause and menopause. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining vaginal health, including lubrication and elasticity. When estrogen levels drop, it can lead to thinning of the vaginal walls, decreased lubrication, and increased sensitivity, resulting in discomfort or pain during sexual activity.

To address your specific questions:
1. Hormonal Treatment: If you suspect that hormonal changes are contributing to your symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms and may recommend hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other treatments. While some over-the-counter products, such as vaginal moisturizers or lubricants, can provide relief, prescription options may be more effective for significant hormonal imbalances. It is not recommended to self-prescribe hormones without medical supervision due to potential risks and side effects.

2. Use of Hormones: Generally, hormone replacement therapy is prescribed for women experiencing moderate to severe menopausal symptoms. However, it is not typically recommended for women who do not have significant symptoms or issues. The decision to use HRT should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, who can assess your individual health history, risk factors, and the severity of your symptoms.
3. Timeframe for Improvement: The timeframe for experiencing improvement after starting treatment can vary. Many women report relief from symptoms within a few weeks of starting hormone therapy, but it may take longer for some. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your response to treatment and make any necessary adjustments.

In addition to hormonal treatments, there are several non-hormonal options available for managing vaginal dryness and discomfort. These include:
- Vaginal moisturizers: These can be used regularly to maintain moisture in the vaginal area.

- Water-based lubricants: Using lubricants during intercourse can help reduce friction and discomfort.

- Lifestyle changes: Staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy diet, and engaging in regular physical activity can also support overall vaginal health.

It's important to remember that you are not alone in experiencing these changes, and many women go through similar challenges during menopause. Open communication with your partner about your experiences and feelings can also help alleviate some of the emotional stress associated with these changes.

In conclusion, if you are experiencing painful intercourse and suspect it may be related to hormonal changes, consulting with a healthcare provider is the best course of action. They can provide personalized advice and treatment options to help improve your quality of life during this transition.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Menopause: Hormone Therapy and Women's Health Concerns

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask: 1. Does the topical hormone cream for women really improve the tightness of the intimate area, reduce vaginal odor, increase female hormones, delay menopause, alleviate menopausal symptoms, combat bacterial infections, and enhance immunity? ...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, increased appetite and frequent hunger, unexplained low mood, irritability, insomnia, increased urination, and rough skin are all symptoms of menopause. If you are experiencing discomfort, hormone therapy can be used for treatment. Topical hormone creams can help alleviate...

Understanding Changes in Sexual Desire: A Guide for Couples

Hello Brian, it sounds like you’re facing a challenging situation in your relationship. It's important to communicate openly with your wife about her feelings and any changes she may be experiencing. Factors such as stress, hormonal changes, or emotional issues can affect li...

Dr. Chen Zhirong reply Urology
Hi Brain, Your wife has been experiencing a fear of sexual relationships recently, which may be due to menopausal syndrome. I suggest you take her to the hospital and consult the Gynecology department. The sooner, the better. Sincerely, Director Chen Chih-Jung, Sexual Wellne...

Understanding and Alleviating Pain During Intimacy: A Guide for Couples

I have been married to my husband (32 years old) for over six months, and our relationship is very loving. However, due to our busy work schedules, I often feel fatigued and have a decreased interest in intimacy, engaging in sexual activity only once or twice a month. Each time, ...

Dr. Wang Hanzhou reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
If you experience pain during sexual intercourse, please consult a physician to check for any inflammation, endometrial abnormalities, or other organ issues. If there are no gynecological problems, please ensure that your husband is highly cooperative. As for the frequency, it va...

Self-Care Strategies for Post-Menopausal Women: Addressing Sleep and Hormonal Issues

Hello Dr. Chang, I have two concerns I would like to consult you about: 1. Sleep and tinnitus, 2. Hormones. I wake up at 3 AM and find it difficult to fall back asleep. If I do manage to sleep again, it is only for a short time and filled with dreams. This situation began after ...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, if you have experienced improvement in your symptoms after using Veenina tablets and sedatives, but are not suitable for hormone replacement therapy due to the risk of thrombosis, you may try the methods you mentioned to see if they are effective. However, if your symptoms...