Using Osphena to Treat Painful Intercourse

Pain with intercourse is a common problem for women that are postmenopausal. The most common cause of pain with intercourse in postmenopausal women is vaginal atrophy. Vaginal atrophy is a condition in which the vaginal tissues become thin and less elastic due to decreasing estrogen levels.

There is a new medication to treat this problem called Osphena. Osphena is a daily tablet and it is not estrogen. The only options for women until Osphena have been over the counter vaginal moisturizers or vaginal estrogen therapy. The vaginal estrogen creams and vaginal estrogen tablets are very effective. A common concern for women is the risk of estrogen exposure. A common complaint for women using estrogen cream is the inconvenience with insertion. Most women would choose an oral option if the option was available. The option now is available.

Osphena has been approved by the FDA and is available by prescription only. The company does provide vouchers to reduce cost to patients and some insurers provide wonderful coverage for this medication.

There are circumstances when the medication cannot be used, as with any medication. Women taking the medication may experience an increase in hot flashes. Osphena has been proven to be effective in the treatment of dyspareunia (painful intercourse) due to vaginal atrophy.

It is nice to have another option for women who experience pain with intercourse. Many women suffer in silence with the symptom of painful intercourse. Talk to your gynecologistto find a treatment option that is right for you.