Are there natural remedies for painful sex during menopause?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Certain medicinal plants may help ease painful sex during menopause, though scientific evidence remains limited and more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness. Herbs like black cohosh, red clover, and sea buckthorn oil are commonly explored for menopausal symptoms, but results vary by individual. Because painful intercourse can stem from multiple causes—hormonal shifts, vaginal dryness, or underlying conditions—identifying the root cause matters. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what may be behind your discomfort and confidently navigate your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

During menopause, some women experience painful sex due to changes in their bodies. According to the research by Mazaro-Costa and colleagues, certain medicinal plants might offer alternative treatments for improving female sexual health. However, the study highlights the need for more research to fully understand how these plants work and their benefits.

Here are some key points from the study:

Medicinal Plants: Some plants have been used traditionally for women's health issues, including those related to menopause.
Potential Benefits: These plants might help with symptoms like painful sex, but scientific evidence is still limited.
Research Needed: More studies are necessary to confirm the safety and effectiveness of these natural remedies.

If you are experiencing menopause symptoms like painful sex or other health concerns, consider using our free AI-powered symptom checker to help identify potential causes. It's also important to talk to a healthcare provider to ensure any treatment approach is safe and appropriate for your situation.

(References)

Mazaro-Costa R, Andersen ML, Hachul H, & Tufik S. (2010). Medicinal plants as alternative treatments for female sexual .... The journal of sexual medicine, 20722793.

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