A 2015 study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that postmenopausal women experienced higher rates of sexual dysfunction than their premenopausal peers.
1. Decreased desire
Both men and women experience decreased desire as they age. But women are two to three times more likely to experience a decrease in sex drive. This is because the level of estrogen changes. It is important to remember that desire is strongly related to the mental and emotional aspects of your well-being. Either way, if you're feeling less interested in sex during menopause, know that you're not alone.
2. Vaginal dryness
A change in estrogen levels may also be responsible for a decrease in the natural lubrication of the vagina. Vaginal dryness is sometimes to blame for painful or unpleasant sex. Many women find relief with over-the-counter (OTC) lubricants or vaginal moisturizers.
3. Decreased sense of satisfaction
In some women, vaginal dryness can be combined with reduced blood flow to the clitoris and the lower part of the vagina. This can lead to reduced sensitivity of erogenous zones. Because of this, it is not uncommon to have fewer orgasms, or less intense orgasms and to have to work harder to achieve them. And if you feel less pleasure during and because of sex, it is completely normal that your desire for the same decreases
4. Painful penetration
Another common side effect of menopause is dyspareunia, or painful intercourse. There can be many problems that contribute to this condition, including vaginal dryness and thinning of the vaginal tissue. For some women, this causes a general feeling of discomfort during sex. Others experience severe pain as well as pain and burning.
And just as reduced pleasure can lead to a reduced sex drive, it also makes sense that experiencing more pain during intercourse can lead to a lack of interest in sexual encounters.
5. Emotional disturbances
The mental state plays a big role in the existence and maintenance of sexual desire, excitement and pleasure. Menopause can sometimes contribute to mental health. You may feel exhausted due to hormonal changes and night sweats. Or maybe you're more stressed and emotional than usual...
Treatment options
Even with these side effects, remember that menopause doesn't have to end your sex life. Start finding solutions:
- using OTC lubricants or vaginal moisturizers
- experimenting with different positions
- masturbation as a way of increasing desire
- you may benefit from using a vaginal dilator.
This tool helps to stretch the vaginal tissue that has become thin and dry due to menopause or a long period of abstinence.
There are also treatment options that your doctor can recommend, so be sure to talk to him if home remedies don't improve your condition.
Remember that there are medical treatments and tools to help you achieve a healthy and quality sex life.
Exercise
Exercise improves mood, reduces stress and promotes positive emotions.
If you are new to exercise or haven't exercised in a while, start slowly and work out for 30 minutes a day. At first, this may mean exercising for 10 minutes a day until you build up your stamina.
Consider trying an activity you've always been interested in but never tried. The point is to do something you enjoy, so exercise doesn't feel like a chore.
Communicate with your partner
Loss of libido during menopause is often a result of physical symptoms, but feeling connected to your partner can help and lift your mood for sex. Keep the lines of communication open and be honest about your relationship and what you're going through, both physically and mentally.
Focus on intimacy
Sex is not the only way to feel close to your partner. Kissing, caressing, and other gestures of intimacy can actually help stimulate your sex drive by creating a bond between you and your partner.
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