What Causes Pain During Intercourse?

Posted on Tue, 8 Apr 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 8 Apr 2014 Answered on

Tue, 29 Apr 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi there, I am female, 57 years old and I went to many doctors and no one is helping me. They all say is old age and is nothing wrong. Every time I have intercourse, which is rare, it hurts very badly, there is no pleasure at all. I tried Replens, a cream you use inside, doesn't work. I am very desperate, because I don't think 57 is old and I talk to my friends and they don't have this problem. What is wrong with me and how can I fix this? Please advise! Thank you, XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Vjollce Mbiarra (-4 hours later)

Brief Answer: This may be from the low levels of oestrogen. Detailed Answer: Hello! Thanks for your query. I am sorry to know about your problem and will try my very best to help you. These symptoms are very common at your age. These symptoms usually happen due to vaginal atrophy. The main cause of vaginal atrophy, painful intercourse is from the lack or low levels of oestrogen. After the menopause decreased concentrations of oestrogen may result in insufficient maturation of the vaginal epithelium, which can lead to a range of vaginal discomforts. This state of vaginal atrophy may be treated with oestrogen replacement treatment. Replens, a non-hormonal alternative to oestrogen replacement treatment has been shown to be effective in relieving symptoms related to vaginal atrophy in previous studies. But Replens is not being effective for you. I think that you may need to use lotions containing pure estrogen like colpotrophini, but always after consulting with your gynecologist. Take care of your self. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj