Painful intercourse—when menopause is the gift that keeps on giving
Painful intercourse generally doesn’t become an issue until after the menopausal transition. Although some symptoms occur immediately as the menopausal transition occurs, other changes continue the longer we lack estrogen. Over time, a loss of elasticity, thinning skin, and dryness inside and out can lead to painful intercourse, vaginal irritation and infections, and bladder irritation and infections. Luckily, we have many options to help with these symptoms. So, if these symptoms sound like what you are experiencing, then be sure to share your concerns with your physician.