A woman’s body is continually changing throughout her life, and no more so than after menopause. After menopause the ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that helped to regulate a woman’s sex drive. With the decrease in hormone production, a fear of aging, and incorrect information, many women simply do not know what to expect after menopause.
1. Vaginal Dryness
Many women believe that after menopause, sex will become uncomfortable and even painful. Uncomfortable or painful intercourse can happen at any age, but it can become more prevalent after menopause. As estrogen levels drop in the body, many women may find that they are experiencing a condition known as vaginal dryness. Once the body’s natural lubrication begins to lessen, the vaginal walls may begin to tighten as the blood vessels begin to shrink. This can also lead to slight bleeding or even tearing of the vaginal walls.
There are ways to cure the discomfort of vaginal dryness, and the first step is to continue to enjoy a healthy and active sex life. Regular sexual activity can help to keep the vaginal tissue soft and moist, and many women also turn to over the counter lubricants. Vaginal lubricants not only help to moisten the vagina, but some can even help to heighten sexual pleasure. Estrogen creams are also available, and are applied in and around the vagina.
2. Loss of Sexual Desire
The hormone estrogen helps to regulate a woman’s sexual desire, and after menopause some women may experience an marked decrease in their interest in sex. Estrogen, or hormonal therapy is one method in which hormonal levels can be restored in the body, and estrogen creams are a popular solution.
See Also: Does Menopause Affecting on Sex Drive?
A woman’s sexual desire may decrease also as a result that it may be more difficult now to achieve an orgasm. For many women though, this may not be a new concern. A majority of women experience trouble achieving an orgasm at some time in their lives, and it can usually be corrected. A woman requires longer periods of foreplay and stimulation than a man, and many women find that once this period has been drawn out they are able to reach a climax.
3. Body Image May Suffer
As a woman faces the reality that she is getting older, her body image may begin to suffer. This frequently occurs in women after menopause, when they are faced with the truth that their bodies are aging. The fear of aging combined with lower hormonal levels can lead to depression and a marked disinterest in sexual activity.
Some women experience little or no problems with their self image, but the women who do often find help by discussing their feelings with their partners and occasionally with a therapist. Treatments can involve hormonal therapies and open discussions. Positive thinking groups can also help with problems of low self image.
Sex After Menopause
The majority of women enjoy a healthy sex life after menopause, and find that their sex life has not experienced any remarkable changes. Some women even report having a better sex life after menopause, and consider their 50’s to be the start of a new and exciting life. For women who are experiencing problems with their post menopausal sex life, there are solutions that can help.
Open and honest communication between sex partners is key to avoiding any problems or misunderstandings that could develop as a result of menopause. Do not be afraid to discuss trying new sexual positions, if it is becoming more difficult to reach an orgasm. Talk about fantasies, and try having a romantic evening. Sex does not have to end after menopause, and many women are finding that it can actually be extremely enjoyable.
