Published on: 6/20/2025
How can painful sex be addressed during perimenopause?
Painful sex during perimenopause can be helped with hormone therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, which may improve sexual function and address discomfort.
Explanation
During perimenopause, some women might experience painful sex due to changes in their bodies. There are a few ways to help with this.
Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy can be used to improve sexual function during perimenopause. This treatment might help with some of the physical changes that cause discomfort during sex.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of talk therapy that can help address sexual concerns during this time. It focuses on changing negative thoughts and behaviors to improve sexual experiences.
Understanding Vaginismus: Some women may experience vaginismus, which is when the muscles around the vagina tighten involuntarily, causing pain. Learning about this condition can be the first step in addressing it.
If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health concerns related to sexual health, it is important to seek help. You can visit 988lifeline.org for support.
(References)
- Hope ME, Farmer L, McAllister KF, & Cumming GP. (2010). Vaginismus in peri- and postmenopausal women. Menopause international, 20729498.
- Lara LA, Cartagena-Ramos D, Figueiredo JB, Rosa-E-Silva ACJ, Ferriani RA, Martins WP, & Fuentealba-Torres M. (2023). Hormone therapy for sexual function in perimenopausal .... The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 37619252.
- Green SM, Furtado M, Shea AK, Ballantyne EC, Streiner DL, Frey BN, & McCabe RE. (2025). Cognitive behavioural therapy for sexual concerns during .... The journal of sexual medicine, 40384525.
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