మెనోపాజ్ మరియు సాన్నిహిత్యం: పొడిబారడం, అసౌకర్యాన్ని ఎలా నిర్వహించాలి

How does menopause affect sex?

Lower oestrogen reduces natural lubrication and makes vaginal tissue thinner and less stretchy. Many women also notice changes in desire, arousal and orgasm, along with hot flushes, poor sleep and mood changes that affect intimacy. Unlike hot flushes, vaginal symptoms often get worse over time if untreated.

What symptoms should you look out for?

• Vaginal dryness, burning or itching
• Pain or light bleeding during or after sex
• Needing to pass urine more often, or repeated urine infections
• Lower interest in sex or difficulty becoming aroused

What treatments help with dryness and pain?

Use a water- or silicone-based lubricant during sex, and a vaginal moisturiser two to three times a week. If symptoms continue, low-dose vaginal estradiol (cream, tablet or ring) restores the vaginal tissue with very little absorption into the body. Ospemifene is a tablet option for some women. Pelvic floor physiotherapy and regular sexual activity also help keep tissues healthy.

When should you see a doctor?

See a gynaecologist if dryness or pain affects your life, or if simple measures haven’t helped after a few weeks. Your doctor can confirm the cause and discuss whether vaginal or whole-body hormone therapy is right for you.