We’ve all heard the cliché that “love hurts.” However, the truth is that sex can be physically painful. About half of women who have reached menopause have complaints of pain during sex. Why does pain occur during sex? Hormonal changes. Declining estrogen is the number one cause of pain during sex in women in middle age and beyond. The hormonal change thins the vaginal tissue and makes it drier. Dryness increases friction. In addition, the vagina loses its elasticity, which is why it becomes narrower. Fear and worry – after one case of painful sex, it is normal for a woman to have fears of a repeat one. Worry can further tighten muscles and increase dryness. A health problem. The reason should not be categorically associated with menopause. Pain during sex may be due to Vulvodynia – chronic pain in the area around the opening of the vagina (vulva). UTIs and yeast infections can also cause pain. The truth is that menopause also has its pluses regarding sex life – the unpleasant menstruation and the worry of getting pregnant disappear. Although during this period the levels of hormones responsible for sexual desire fall, but they can always be increased with harmless drugs. A woman must not forget that she is a woman even after the traces of youth. NEWS_MORE_BOX Sex problems during menopause are usually short-lived and if you have a partner who understands and listens to you, you can easily overcome them. However, if you find that your sex life continues to deteriorate, it is good to consult a specialist.