It’s not just the physical symptoms that affect post-menopausal sexuality
Q: What happens to your body sexually after menopause? Sex doesn’t feel right. Is there shrinkage? What can be done to correct this?
A: By definition, menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years—there are decreased levels of her reproductive hormones estrogen, progesterone and androgens (testosterone, others).
Sexually speaking, a lower level of the hormone estrogen during menopause has the potential to lead to:
Lack of desire;
A decrease in pelvic blood flow;
Vaginal dryness and decreased lubrication;
Slight shrinkage of the vagina, labia and clitoris;
Changes in clitoral sensitivity (may be increased or decreased);
Pain or burning with complete or attempted vaginal entry and/or penile-vaginal intercourse;
Thinning of the lining of the vaginal wall;
Weak or decreased orgasmic sensations;
Increased vaginal and urinary tract infections.
You may be experiencing these and other changes throughout your body. But in reality, there’s a lot more going on.
One of the greatest predictors for a woman’s post-menopausal sex life is the activity, quality and satisfaction of her sex life before she reached menopause. Additionally, a woman’s current relationship status (new or long-term, close and intimate or distant and aloof), her emotional and physical health, attitude on aging, as well as self-image and esteem play a role in the expression of her sexuality. Some specific factors include but aren’t limited to:
Whether or not she is in a relationship(s)
The physical health, as well as interest, of her partner
Anxiety or depression
Decreased libido
Perceived loss of sexual attractiveness due to body and tissue changes (dry, sagging or wrinkling of skin, changes in body contour)
Potential medication side effects (anti-depressants, blood pressure, stomach and colon, and others)
Her health (heart disease, neurological disorders, respiratory difficulties, others)
Fortunately, there are many measures women can take to alleviate or minimize the physical changes taking place during menopause, as well as any loss or decrease in their sex drive.
For starters, women who increase their sexual activity often experience an increased ability to lubricate, decreasing vaginal dryness. I know that sounds strange, but the more often blood flow is brought to that area through sexual activity, the better the circulation and the healthier the body tissues. It may take awhile to improve, but it’s certainly worth the journey for those with an interest. Other measures to take include:
A visit to a family physician with knowledge and experience in women’s health, or a gynecologist. This means a full examination and blood tests to check your blood count, thyroid levels, estradiol and others as determined by your health status.
Stop smoking
Increase exercise and activity. If you’re in better shape you will be more energized, have higher levels of the natural mood-enhancing chemicals in your body—resulting in a healthier mind and body.
Limit alcohol to no more than one drink per night.
Adequate amounts of water as it keeps the body tissues lubricated
Improved nutrition
Use of water-based lubricants such as Astroglide or K-Y, or one that contains polycarbophil such as Replens
Use progesterone cream, which may enhance libido
Practice Kegel exercises. This technique strengthens the muscles around the vagina and can enhance intercourse’s physical sensations and pleasurable experience.
Change position to improve comfort during sexual activity.
Make time for romance—communicate and plan a date.
Lastly, it is a complex combination of psychological, physical, cultural and personal relations that ultimately affect a woman’s sexuality and desire. Although there is a wide spectrum of how these factors are balanced, many post-menopausal women enjoy new aspects of sensuality and intimacy that are both pleasurable and fulfilling.