Menopause and intercourse
Throughout menopause, the decline in estrogen can cause a variety of physical changes in the body and a range of symptoms and side effects. One of the worst is vaginal dryness – a skin problem in the sensitive area that can really affect our quality of life.
With less estrogen, the vaginal walls and inner surface of the vagina become drier, thinner, and less flexible. The reduction in vaginal secretions and natural lubrication means that the vagina can easily become irritated and cause pain and inflammation.
Vaginal changes during menopause
Premenopause and menopause can affect the look, feel and function of our vagina. In medical terms, this is known as genitourinary menopausal syndrome. Changes in our most sensitive area can make us not feel very well, so understanding how to deal with specific symptoms is key.
Menopausal genitourinary syndrome can cause many different symptoms, including vaginal dryness, itching, bladder problems, urinary tract infections, and more. Unlike other menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, vaginal health problems rarely correct themselves. Many women are reluctant to talk to a doctor about vaginal dryness problems due to shame and social stigma, but it's important to seek appropriate treatment or these unpleasant and bothersome symptoms may persist. Overcoming any shame could make a big difference in your life.
Although vaginal changes do not affect all women, they are very common and can affect the person emotionally as well. This is because vaginal dryness can reduce the enjoyment of sex, affect relationships and work, and have a negative effect on daily life and sleep. There are many reasons to deal with the problem as soon as possible!
Fortunately, there are many solutions that we can follow to relieve the symptoms of vaginal atrophy, allowing us to maintain our comfort and confidence.
Symptoms of vaginal dryness/atrophy
Every woman experiences perimenopause and menopause differently. Some women may experience a number of different symptoms of vaginal atrophy, while others may only experience mild discomfort for a short period of time. The following symptoms can range from mild to severe, so treatment should be adjusted accordingly.
Vaginal pain and irritation
The folds of the vagina allow it to expand for intercourse and childbirth. During menopause, these folds become thinner and straighten due to the decline in estrogen. The fact that these folds become thinner can cause vaginal pain and irritation, more often during sex.
Vaginal dryness
Along with the fact that these folds become thinner, menopause also causes a narrowing of the vagina. Therefore, vaginal dryness may occur, even during sexual arousal. A lack of natural lubrication can make sex more difficult and painful, and it can also make the vagina and vulva more prone to chafing and injury.
Loss of vaginal sensitivity
During premenopause and menopause, the pelvic floor muscles can weaken, which causes a loss of vaginal sensitivity. With less estrogen in the body, the clitoris can also lose sensitivity, making sex less pleasurable.
Treatment of vaginal dryness/atrophy
If you are premenopausal or menopausal, you don't have to endure the discomfort of vaginal atrophy and its associated symptoms. There are many different prescription treatment options, home remedies, and specialty products designed to ease the side effects of menopause and support you through this time.
Moisturizing and lubricating creams without a prescription
Easily accessible over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers and lubricants are usually the first treatment women try when dealing with vaginal dryness due to menopause.
Also, a water-based lubricant can be the ideal solution for moisturizing and lubricating the vagina. In addition, it can also enhance sexual intercourse and/or be used in combination with aids or vaginal balls to better strengthen the pelvic floor ( see here ). AQUAglide by Joy Division is a water-based edible lubricant with a unique exotic fruit flavor for endless hours of enjoyment!
Topical estrogen creams and vaginal suppositories
If over-the-counter products don't give you any relief from vaginal atrophy and you're hesitant to start hormone replacement therapy, your doctor may prescribe an estrogen cream or vaginal suppository.
Vaginal dilators
If you experience vaginal pain and discomfort during menopause, you may want to try using a vaginal dilator, a machine that helps stimulate and stretch the vaginal muscles. This can help reduce vaginal narrowing due to the decrease in estrogen. Vaginal dilators can be especially helpful for women who experience pain during sex. These are usually available without a prescription.
Kegel (pelvic floor) exercises and vaginal balls
Premenopausal and menopausal women should make a conscious effort to regularly complete pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises. This will increase blood flow to the vagina, increase elasticity and reduce the chance of vaginal atrophy.
You can also try Joy Division 's Joyballs pelvic floor exercise balls, which are made from 100% medical grade silicone and are super easy to use.
Joyballs Secret Single, Magenta-Black
Read more about pelvic floor exercises and vaginal balls here