Daily Column

DEAR DR. GOTT:
I have read several times over the years about women’s problems with painful/dry intercourse. I, too, suffered from this problem during and after menopause. I tried prescription medications and over-the-counter lubricants. None helped. In fact, the OTC lubricants caused burning and itching in both me and my husband. Out of desperation, we decided to try olive oil. It worked! It has been a life and marriage saver.

DEAR READER:
Vaginal dryness is a common consequence of menopause when the drop in estrogen causes vaginal tissues to atrophy. It can make intercourse painful and in severe cases, everyday activities may become difficult. Most physicians recommend estrogen creams, hormone replacement therapy or over-the-counter lubricants. However, for many these options simply don’t work.

Olive oil is a good choice and is fairly inexpensive. I am passing on your remedy in hopes it will help some of my other readers with this all too common complaint.
Thanks for writing.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Menopause”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

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