What is a treatment for painful intercourse during menopause?

Painful intercourse, also known as dyspareunia, is especially common after menopause. In fact, one-quarter to one-half of postmenopausal women experience some pain during sex. Causes include hormonal changes, medical conditions, medications such as antihistamines, and anxiety or depression. As estrogen levels fall with menopause, the vaginal tissue becomes thinner, less lubricated, and less elastic, leading to vaginal dryness, burning, itching, and pain. Using lubricants during intercourse can help reduce friction. Extended foreplay can help with vaginal lubrication. Certain sexual positions may be more comfortable than others. And sex doesn’t have to involve penetration. Oral sex and masturbation are other ways to achieve sexual pleasure that may be less painful.