What does pain during sex feel like with genitourinary syndrome of menopause?

Lower oestrogen can make vaginal and vulval tissues thinner, less elastic, and less naturally lubricated. Friction may then cause rawness, stinging, or a small-tear sensation during penetration. Some people feel pain mainly at the entrance; others notice deeper soreness or throbbing afterward. Symptoms may be accompanied by urinary burning, urgency, or recurrent irritation. The severity can vary, and symptoms may persist beyond sexual activity.

Dryness and painful sex can also arise from infection, skin conditions, medicines, or pelvic muscle tightening. A clinician can distinguish these possibilities and check for tissue changes.

Allow extra time for arousal and use a suitable lubricant during penetration. Vaginal moisturisers used regularly may help ongoing dryness, while avoiding perfumed washes and internal cleansing can reduce irritation. Choose slower, shallower activity and stop if tissues begin to sting. Book a medical review when symptoms recur, interfere with intimacy, or occur with urinary symptoms. Depending on your history, treatment may include local or systemic options and care for another contributing condition.

Arrange prompt assessment for bleeding after sex, new pelvic pain, sores, marked swelling, fever, or unusual discharge. Seek urgent care for severe pain, faintness, heavy bleeding, or fever with vomiting. New bleeding after menopause deserves medical assessment even when dryness seems likely. Do not rely on moisturiser alone when symptoms are persistent or changing.

Do my symptoms fit genitourinary syndrome of menopause, or could infection or a skin condition be involved? Would an examination help identify fragile or inflamed tissue? Which lubricant or moisturiser is suitable? Could local hormone treatment be appropriate for me? What should I do if bleeding occurs after sex?