Rediscovering Sexual Pleasure with Samantha Evans
"Menopause signals the end of a fulfilling sex life? Of course, it doesn't."
Menopause is a big change in a woman's life, bringing along various physical and mental shifts. Understanding these changes and how they affect sexual health and pleasure is key to keeping intimacy alive.
How Menopause Affects Sexual Health
Menopause shakes things up with hormonal changes that can hit libido and sexual satisfaction. As oestrogen levels drop, genitourinary health takes a hit, leading to symptoms like vaginal dryness, tightness, and less sexual sensation. This can make sex painful and less enjoyable.
Physical Changes
Vaginal Dryness and Tightness: With less oestrogen, there's less natural lubrication, causing dryness and tightness.
Decreased Sensation: Shrinking tissues can dull sexual sensation and make orgasms harder to reach.
Infections: Changes in vaginal pH can lead to infections like thrush and bacterial vaginosis.
Mental and Emotional Factors
Body Confidence: Weight gain and other changes can mess with body image and confidence.
Anxiety and Sleep Issues: These can further dampen sexual satisfaction and desire.
Tackling Sexual Health Issues
Dealing with menopause-related sexual health issues means addressing both physical and emotional aspects.
Choosing the Right Lubricants
"Ingredients really matter when it comes to your intimate health and sexual pleasure."
Picking the right lube is crucial. Go for skin-safe, irritant-free options. Water-based lubes are great as they mimic natural lubrication and work with condoms. Steer clear of products with glycerine, glycols, parabens, dyes, perfumes, and alcohol—they can make things worse.
Keeping Communication Open
Talking openly with partners about changes and needs is super important. Discuss using lubes and explore new ways to keep intimacy alive. Solo pleasure and sex toys can also help rediscover sexual pleasure.
"Communication is key in a relationship, whether you're casually dating or exploring solo pleasure."
Medical and Therapeutic Help
Vaginal Oestrogen: Helps restore vaginal health and ease dryness.
Pelvic Health Physiotherapy: Can help with issues like incontinence and pelvic floor problems.
Psychosexual Therapy: Supports the emotional and psychological side of sexual health.
Dealing with Low Libido
"Sex is so much more than penetration: kissing, cuddling, talking, massaging, spending time together."
Low libido during menopause can be due to stress, lifestyle, and relationship dynamics. While testosterone therapy might help some, it's not a magic fix for everyone. Doing things that build connection and relaxation, like spending quality time with a partner, can help boost libido.
Wrapping Up
“Don't have painful sex, because it's neither pleasurable nor sexy.”
Menopause doesn't mean the end of a satisfying sex life. By understanding the changes and exploring solutions, women can maintain and even enhance their sexual health and pleasure. It's all about communication, choosing the right products, and seeking professional advice when needed.
