Thursday, April 23, 2009

Physical Changes in Perimenopause

As perimenopause progresses, the drop in estrogen can create thinning, tightening, and dryness in the vulva and vagina. These changes can lead to such discomfort that some women come to dread sex because of the pain.

There are a number of water-based lubricants to reduce friction during intercourse that are highly effective such as Astroglide and Slippery Stuff. Drinking plenty of water is also helpful in keeping the mucous membranes of the body moistened from within.

If these measures don't take care of the problem, there are many prescription estrogen products that can be applied vaginally. It's important to talk to your doctor about the options that are available. Simply avoiding sex not only doesn't solve the problem, it can contribute to further atrophy of the vaginal tissue.

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