At the opening
Burning, tearing, or sharp pain may occur as penetration begins.
Painful sex
You should not have to brace for sex.
Pain has many possible causes. A thoughtful evaluation can help you find the right care.
Where and when it hurts can help explain why.
Pain during sex is called dyspareunia. It may feel different from person to person and can have more than one cause.
Inside or deeper
Pain may be felt within the vagina, pelvis, lower abdomen, back, or bladder area.
During or afterward
Soreness, irritation, or light bleeding may continue after sexual activity ends.
Pain during sex has more than one possible cause.
Menopause-related dryness is common, but pelvic-floor tension, skin conditions, infection, gynecologic conditions, medicines, arousal, and stress can also contribute.
Tissue changes
Lower estrogen can reduce lubrication and make vulvar and vaginal tissue thinner, drier, and more sensitive.
Muscles and nerves
Pelvic-floor tension or a pain condition can make touch or penetration painful even when dryness is treated.
Other medical causes
Infection, skin disorders, endometriosis, cysts, bladder conditions, and other concerns may need evaluation.
Treatment should match the cause of the pain.
Some people need moisture and tissue support. Others need pelvic-floor care, treatment for another condition, or several approaches together.
ApproachWhat it may includeWhat to know
Reduce friction and irritation
Lubricants, vaginal moisturizers, more arousal time, and avoiding irritants.
These steps may make sexual activity more comfortable while the cause is evaluated.
Treat menopause-related tissue changes
Low-dose vaginal estrogen or other prescription options.
A clinician can review local therapies, benefits, and individual health considerations.
Address other contributors
Pelvic-floor therapy, gynecologic treatment, counseling, or sexual-health care.
Referral can be part of a complete plan when pain is not explained by dryness alone.
MyMenopauseRx patient outcomes
74%reported improvement in sexual health and comfort.
How this was measured
Improvement among patients who initially rated sexual-health and comfort symptoms as severe. Based on validated questionnaire data from more than 1,500 MyMenopauseRx patients who initially rated symptoms as severe.
Results describe surveyed patient outcomes and do not guarantee an individual result.
Clinical leadership
Barbra Hanna, DO, FACOG, MSCP
Founder, board-certified OB/GYN, Menopause Society Certified Practitioner
Meet the care teamPain is enough reason to ask for help.
Meet virtually with a menopause specialist who can listen without judgment, review possible causes, and guide your next step.
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Most major commercial insurance plans accepted.
Coverage varies by plan and location. Not currently accepting Medicare, Medicaid, or HMO plans.