Dyspareunia is the occurrence of excessive pain during sexual intercourse. This kind of pain is especially common when a woman goes through menopause. Dyspareunia in menopause occurs due to a thinning of the vaginal wall tissues, as well as, dryness in the vagina. Lowered levels of the estrogen hormone also contribute to the prevalence of this disorder.
The diagnosis of dyspareunia is performed by a physical examination of the pelvic area. Certain tests may also be recommended such as an ultrasound and a urine culture test. However, the main basis for diagnosis is usually a reporting of the severity of symptoms by the patient.
The main course of treatment for dyspareunia during menopause is hormonal treatment in the form of medications. Additionally, estrogen sprays and gels for the vagina may also be prescribed. This treatment is administered for a good deal of time before results can be seen. In the meanwhile, some home remedies can provide immense relief from the pain and overall discomfort of dyspareunia. Here are some of the effective home remedies to consider.
- Empty your bladder fully before sexual activity to minimize any kind of pressure that might cause pain
- Use a water-based lubricant to ease symptoms of vaginal dryness. This can also be done to reduce pain during sexual intercourse
- Apply an ice pack to the vulva area before sexual activity to provide relief from pain or on-going discomfort
- Ask your doctor for a painkiller and keep it handy when symptoms of dyspareunia arise
- Take a warm bath when symptoms of dyspareunia arise, as this helps ease the pain and reduces mental stress
- Learn Kegel exercises to keep vaginal muscles strong and active even as lowering estrogen levels compromise the health and vitality of the reproductive system
- Avoid using perfumed and heavy chemical-laden soaps to clean the vagina
- Ask your physician for a natural vaginal wash that will help restore the pH balance and reduce dryness
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, as this also helps curb vaginal dryness
- Quit smoking immediately, as this habit not only impacts overall health but has highly detrimental effects on the female reproductive system
Finally, one of the main steps of personal care that needs to be taken is communication. While the treatment of dyspareunia is a lengthy process that involves medication taken over a period, doctors encourage communicating about pain and discomfort with one’s partner as an effective way to cope emotionally with the symptoms of the condition. Communication also helps ease out the strain that may arise in a relationship due to dyspareunia during menopause. If required, a couple can seek counseling to tide over the situation. Some couples also opt for sex therapy sessions as a means to find a way to overcome the lack of sexual intimacy that results from dyspareunia.
