TALKING ALL THINGS SEX!
In this blog we discuss sex during menopause and why it doesn’t mean the end off sex as you know it! With Menopause comes many challenges but it can be a time for freedom and a great sex life!
(AND WHY MENOPAUSE SHOULDN’T MEAN THE END OF A GREAT SEX LIFE)
OK, I got your attention right? Sex, a bit like menopause, is different for every woman. No two people are the same. And while some people have a great sex life, for others sex just isn’t the be all and end all! Some people even prefer no sex at all - we are all different right! Whatever your experience of sex is, once you hit menopause things will change and that’s probably a given. This doesn’t mean that is the end of great sex though. For some, sexual appetite can actually increase. For some menopause equals freedom. Freedom from periods, freedom from risking pregnancy, and just a new chapter in life - and this includes sex too! Others however may experience a whole different scenario when it comes to sex. Lack of desire and enthusiasm, pain during sex, feeling just f*!ng angry or sad for no apparent reason (oh yeah, apart from bloody menopause right!). The point is that we don’t actually know how our bodies will react until it does!
Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, although the exact timing can vary from woman to woman. During menopause, a woman's ovaries gradually stop producing eggs, and her hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, decline.
The hormonal changes associated with menopause can have various effects on a woman's body, including changes in sexual function and desire. However, it's important to note that menopause affects each woman differently, and not all women experience the same symptoms or changes.
Here are a few ways menopause can affect sexual health:
Vaginal dryness: Declining estrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness, which may cause discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.
Decreased libido: Some women may experience a decrease in sexual desire during menopause. This can be influenced by hormonal changes, physical discomfort, or psychological factors such as stress or mood changes.
Changes in orgasm: Menopause can bring changes in the intensity or frequency of orgasms. Some women may find that orgasms become less intense, while others may experience increased intensity.
Changes to your actual body: The tissues of the vulva and vagina may become thinner, less elastic, and more fragile due to decreased estrogen levels. This can result in discomfort or pain during sexual activity.
Emotional factors: Menopause is often accompanied by emotional changes such as mood swings, irritability, or anxiety. These factors can affect sexual desire and overall sexual well-being.
It's important for women experiencing changes in their sexual health during menopause to communicate openly with their partners and even their healthcare providers. There are various treatments and strategies available to manage these symptoms, including:
Lubricants: Water-based lubricants can help alleviate vaginal dryness and improve comfort during sexual activity. These ca readily be purchased at you local chemist who will be able t advise on which is best or via your Doctor.
Hormone therapy: In some cases, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be recommended to alleviate menopausal symptoms, including those affecting sexual health. However, HRT is not suitable for everyone, and its risks and benefits should be carefully evaluated with a healthcare provider.
Vaginal estrogen: In the form of creams, rings, or tablets, vaginal estrogen can help restore moisture, elasticity, and thickness to the vaginal tissues. It can be an effective treatment for vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex.
Communication and emotional support: Openly discussing concerns, desires, and expectations with a partner can help maintain a satisfying sexual relationship during menopause. Seeking support from a healthcare professional, therapist, or counsellor can also be beneficial.
And yes I’m going to say it again! Your diet and lifestyle has a huge effect on your physical well being as well as balancing your hormones that may effect sex! In my opinion this is always your first port of call when experiencing any symptoms.
Remember that menopause affects women differently, and some women may not experience significant changes in their sexual health or desire. If you have specific concerns or questions about menopause and its impact on sex, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalised advice and guidance based on your individual situation. The most important thing is, whatever the effect of Menopause on your sexual health at this stage in life, there are things that can help you deal with it, don’t suffer in silence and once addressed this time if life can be a positive experience.
If you are suffering with Menopausal symptoms and are struggling to feel in control or perhaps you want to get ahead of what may be to come, drop me a direct message and I can help answer your questions. I’m always here to help…..Please give me a follow on instagram or join our private Facebook group
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