On Vaginal Dryness and Painful Sex in Menopause

An estimated 6,000 women in the U.S. reach menopause every single day—that’s over 2 million each year! And an average of 27 million women between the ages of 45 and 64 experience menopausal symptoms. All this to say, you are not alone if you experience vaginal dryness and/or pain during sex. My goal today is to help you feel comfortable in your body and in your life by sharing what you need to know about the causes of these symptoms, what you can do to soothe and heal your vagina, and how you can make sex comfortable again.    Vaginal dryness also affects women in their 20s and 30s, so even if you're not in menopause, have a listen because you're sure to learn something about your body now—and something for your future self!   In this episode, I talk about: What happens to our hormones leading up to and during menopause and why these changes can lead to vaginal dryness and, in turn, painful sex How to know whether your vaginal symptoms or pain with sex are due to menopausal changes or to another condition Effective, easy, and practical tips that you can use for vaginal dryness and painful sex The differences between lubes, moisturizers, and oils, when and how to use each, and why hyaluronic acid may be a great option My recommendations for herbal remedies and the pros and cons of a variety of supplements The hormonal approaches currently available and which option may be the right choice for your treatment The surprising and sexy tip to help heal vaginal dryness and pain during sex I truly believe this is a phase of our lives that is meant to be filled with empowerment, self-love, and, when desired, self-pleasure.     And remember, you too, can call me at (413) 889-4549 and leave a voicemail with your women’s health-related questions, which may just get featured in a future episode!  Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation.