kay1656

I am 52, perimenapausal and am experience a flushing feeling whenever I engage in intercourse to the point of losing all other sensations.  Its like the flushing feeling begins and I become disconnected from the pleasure I had been experiencing up to that point.  I am in good health, exercise regularly and haven't experienced any other symptoms.  Is this a temporary situation?

[Machelle Seibel, MD]

This type of experience is a less common experience and is likely to discontinue as you progress through perimenopause into menopause per se. However, that window can take up to several years. For that reason, in the meantime it makes sense for you to talk with your doctor about some treatment for menopausal symptoms in general. Discuss using hormone therapy but also alternative approaches such as soy or flaxseed as well. One study suggested that having intercourse more often could also reduce hot flashes associated with it.

Also, using a vaginal moisturizer such as Replens could be helpful. Apply daily for one week then twice weekly can moisturize the vagina and be helpful. It is available in the women's sections of most drug and chain stores.
Machelle M. Seibel, MD