Menopause: When Sex Hurts

This is one of those topics many women experience but few feel comfortable talking about.

If sex has become uncomfortable or even painful during perimenopause or menopause, you are not alone. And more importantly, it is not something you simply have to live with.

Pain during sex is common in midlife, and in most cases, it has a clear physical explanation and solutions.

Why Sex Can Become Painful During Menopause

As oestrogen levels decline, the tissues of the vagina begin to change. They can become thinner, drier, and less elastic. Natural lubrication also reduces, which can make friction during sex uncomfortable or painful.

This is often referred to as vaginal dryness or vaginal atrophy, and it is one of the most common physical changes during menopause.

At the same time, reduced blood flow to the area can affect arousal and sensitivity, which may make intimacy feel different than it used to.

It Is Not Just Physical

Pain during sex can also have an emotional impact.

If discomfort happens repeatedly, it can lead to anxiety around intimacy, reduced desire, or even avoidance altogether. Over time, this can affect confidence, relationships, and how you feel in your own body.

That is why it is important to address it early not only for physical comfort, but for emotional wellbeing too.

There Are Ways to Help

This is not something you have to “push through.” There are effective and accessible ways to make intimacy comfortable again.

Simple options like water-based lubricants can reduce friction immediately.

Vaginal moisturisers, used regularly, can help restore hydration to the tissues over time.

For some women, healthcare professionals may recommend local oestrogen treatments, which help improve tissue health directly and safely.

The right approach depends on your body, but support is available.

If you enjoy our Meno Health newsletter and the information we share on Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn, please consider sharing it with your friends and colleagues. That way, they can also learn more about menopause and menopause in the workplace.

If you would like to read the results of our Menopause at Work study, click here  MenoSupport Suisse 2025 Study. 
Simply send them this link to sign up for the newsletter.