When Sex Hurts: Practical Solutions for Women Over Fifty

Doing Marriage Well · Apr 16, 2026 · 2m · transcript

This episode explains why sex can become painful after menopause—falling estrogen thins and dries intimate tissues—and how topical estrogen (creams, rings, or tablets) restores tissue thickness, improves lubrication, lowers vaginal pH, and can reduce infections. Your doctor will advise which option is best for you. When medication isn’t enough, careful stretching (using a lubricated finger or partner insertion held still) can restore vaginal elasticity; partners should proceed gently and communicate. The episode also describes a safe non-penetrative technique (“pseudocourse”) that provides…