Sex DriveChange: As estrogen levels dip during perimenopause, some women find sex painful because their bodies produce less vaginal lubrication.
Menopause is a different process for each woman and occurs at different times in their lives. Women postmenopausal complaints of sexual help are needed. A loss of libido is a pervading effect of menopause.
In other words, the Low Libido and Menopause Connection
Low testosterone and estrogen postmenopausal: Hormonal imbalances in a woman’s body can lead to decreased libido. But first things first-
Menopause is the process where a woman ceases to get her period. Unfortunately, The menstrual cycle is not the only thing Menopause affects and if you are at any age close to menopausal this means it has already started messing with your weight. Symptoms of Menopause are:
But not all women need to experience a reduced sex drive. Some postmenopausal women have felt they have got an improved sexual drive. This may be related to anxiety or fear which can be associated with pregnancy making them stress free, as a result they just unwind and enjoy love making however some might engage in sexual practice with their partners.
A drop in the estrogen levels can also cause an imperceptible decrease in blood supply to the vagina. This can affect the-infertility-dry vagina, leading to painful intercourse. However, water-soluble lubricants can be used as a remedy.
Until your doctor verifies that you are no longer ovulating or menopausal, continue this method and condoms with your partner. Condoms are also the fastest way to guarantee against STDsinfections. Hence, it is recommended to have condoms while having sex.
It is because of this reason menopause inhibits libido.
Blood flow to the vagina decreases and so tissues in the area become thinner, which makes them less receptive of arousal. Sex can also be less enjoyable and even painful because of dryness in your vagina. It could make it hard for you to orgasm.
Fluctuating hormone levels affect a woman’s mental health, reducing libido. Struggles at the job, parenting or familial responsibilities can add to her stress level. You may experience irritation and depression, and dealing with routine matters may seem difficult.
Besides these symptoms, hot flashes, anxiety, sleeping troubles, fatigue, etc. also affect her sexual drive.
Some other factors having said to reduce a woman’s libido during menopause are:
People experiencing vaginal dryness or thinning of tissues can consider undergoing estrogen therapy. As mentioned earlier, they can also use water-soluble lubricants to treat vaginal dryness.
They can directly apply prescription estrogen to the vagina. Or they can take estrogen pills that contain a higher level of hormones. However, this treatment comes with a lot of risks, though they help in reducing the symptoms like anxiety, mood changes, and hot flashes.
People thinking about using hormone replacement therapy should consult with their doctor about all the pros and cons of it.
Water-soluble lubricants to treat vaginal dryness and increasing sexual stimulation can benefit women.
In addition to this, women should consider at least 30-minute exercise or physical activity to keep themselves active. Quitting smoking altogether and avoiding alcohol adds to better health and lifestyle.
Besides these, a healthy balanced diet will enhance the individual’s overall well-being.
One can foster intimacy with their partner in several ways other than just sexual intercourse. Before we get to those ways, please know that the more openly you talk about your reduced libido, the more ways you can figure it out together. It’s no disease; you don’t become disinterested in your partner just because you don’t feel like having sex. Talk, talk, and talk. Help your partner understand and be open about what works in bed for you.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the ways you can enhance your intimacy with your partner:
Engage in extended periods of foreplay; take time in exploring each other’s bodies and giving each other the pleasure of intimate touch. Engage in sexual activity without the goal of orgasm.
Spend time together by doing either basic or special activities together. For example, you can pick a movie that you both enjoy watching, listen to songs, exercise, or play a game together. You can include a weekend getaway once a month in your schedule or plan some dates together.
Make use of sex toys, vibrators, etc., to enhance intimate pleasure.
You can also consider experimenting with erotic videos, stories, and masturbation.
