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Sexual Dysfunction Treatment in Chicago, IL

There can be many factors, both physical and physiological, that can cause a woman to have sexual problems.

If you are taking certain medicines, have a disease, or have relationship problems, it can affect your sex life. Certain times of women’s lives can also cause disruptions in sexual desire or arousal including after childbirth or menopause, or during stressful times throughout life.

Don’t let the symptoms of sexual dysfunction interfere with your relationship, contact Lake Shore Obstetrics & Gynecology to speak with our gynecologists! To visit our gynecology office in Chicago or Hinsdalee call (312)943-3300 to schedule your appointment.

What Is Dyspareunia, or Painful Intercourse?

Dyspareunia, or painful intercourse, can be caused by menopause due to the changes in hormones, or from other conditions or events in your life. Vaginal dryness is very common during menopause due to the decrease of estrogen levels. Insufficient lubrication can also be cause by a lack of foreplay, low estrogen levels after childbirth or during breast-feeding, and due to certain medications.

Symptoms of Painful Intercourse

If you experience the following symptoms you should talk with your doctor about the different treatment options available:

  • Pain during sexual penetration
  • New pain from intercourse
  • Deep pain during deep thrusting
  • Burning or aching pain during intercourse
  • Pain continuing after intercourse

What Is Vaginal Dryness?

Vaginal Dryness is a common symptom of menopause due to changes in hormone levels. The drop in estrogen levels in women going through menopause can lead to vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. While you can make changes in your sex life to help with vaginal dryness, medications or other treatments may be necessary.

What Are The Causes of Vaginal Dryness?

Although we know that a drop in estrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness, there are still many possible sources to a woman’s lowered hormone production. Most commonly, vaginal dryness is associated with other typical symptoms of menopause, though it can also be brought on by:

  • Childbirth
  • Breastfeeding
  • Douching
  • Immune system disorders
  • Side effects of medications, especially those used to treat reproductive disorders such as uterine fibroids or endometriosis
  • Cancer treatments in the pelvic region
  • Smoking
  • Depression
  • Immense amounts of stress
  • Oophorectomy (surgical removal of the ovaries)
  • Rigorous exercise

What Is Atrophic Vaginitis?

When the vaginal walls have thinned and are dry, it can cause your vagina to be irritated and inflamed. This can cause sexual intercourse to be a painful experience and may cause women to avoid sex. A vaginal infection can sometimes be the cause of inflammation. Be sure to see your OBGYN if you think you have an infection.

What Is The Cause of Vaginal Atrophy?

During a woman’s lifetime, her estrogen hormones help to keep the vagina well lubricated and supple. However, these hormone levels typically die down as a woman transitions through menopause, which typically leads to a variety of unique symptoms and conditions, including vaginal atrophy.

Aside from menopause, other common contributors to lower estrogen levels and development of vaginal atrophy include:

  • Breastfeeding
  • Removal of the ovaries
  • Side effects of various medications

Inhibited Sexual Desire

Sexual apathy or aversion can be caused by the above physical problems or they could stem from an emotional cause such as:

  • Anxiety or depression
  • Concerns with self-esteem or physical appearance
  • Relationship problems
  • Stress

Take note of the sexual dysfunction problems you’re having and what’s going on in your life while the problem is occurring. Talk with your doctor about treatment and lifestyle changes that can help provide relief from painful intercourse.

Schedule a Consultation for Female Sexual Dysfunction in Hinsdale & Chicago Today!

If you have been experiencing any of the conditions aforementioned and are looking for answers, contact Lake Shore Obstetrics & Gynecology to discuss treatment options with a specialist. Call us at (312) 943-3300 to schedule an appointment at our offices located in both Hinsdale and Chicago.