Sex & Menopause: Coffee, Shampoo & Strawberries Among Common Causes Of Sexual Pain

Just because a woman has hit menopause doesn't mean she has to pause on the sex too. Unfortunately, a significant number of pre- and post-menopausal women complain of sexual pain, which can come from a variety of factors. Little do they know that their daily product usage could be causing this ailment -- apparently, things like coffee and shampoo have an effect on pain during intercourse for menopausal women.

The Daily Mail reports that sexual pain is not an unusual condition. Sex and pain go together for a few million women, many of whom will experience the combination worsen with age.

The "Sex In America" survey found that 20 percent of women in the U.S. experience pain when it comes to sex. Of this 20 percent, 15 percent experienced pre-menopausal sexual pain, while 33 percent experienced post-menopausal pain.

Sexual pain can come from various conditions. Muscular tightness is one source of sexual pain. Another factor may be the type of food that a woman ingests. Oxalate content in food is one common cause of sexual pain.

Food that are high in oxalate include coffee, beans, strawberries, leeks, spinach and sweet potato. Poor bowel conditions, such as in IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) cases, also contribute to oxalate absorption.

Excess oxalate that go into the bloodstream tend to mix with calcium to form crystals that become embedded into soft tissues throughout the body. These calcium-oxalate crystals can cause pain, and even damage.

Allergic reaction to personal products such as shampoo and shower gel may also contribute to sexual pain. Avoiding varieties of these products that irritate the delicate skin of the genitals is a good way to start.

ABC 2 reports that Dr. Nadu Tuakli, MD, MPH recommends a holistic approach for women to enjoy sex, especially after menopause. Rest and sleep is one foremost recommendation by Dr Tuakli. Another is looking upon sex as an experience of intimacy rather than as a means for orgasm and ecstasy.

Medications being taken should also be checked for side effects on a woman's sexual activity. A switch from synthetic to herbal cure where possibly is generally recommended by Dr Tuakli.

While sexual pain is one of the realistic challenges that couple face, the importance of sex to a healthy relationship is undeniable. Experiencing intimacy challenges such as sexual pain should not be dismissed. Dealing with sexual pain before or after menopause is an issue that couples would do well to deal with together.