Menopause, also known as menopause, is a natural phase in one's life if you are born with a vulva, where one's reproductive years end. The hormones dance salsa, and it feels as if the body lives its own life. In this guide, we take a look at how menopause affects one's sexuality and sex drive, and what you can do to cope with the upheavals.
Hormonal changes
When you go through menopause, significant hormonal changes occur in the body, especially in terms of estrogen and progesterone. The hormones that previously kept your body and mind in balance begin to decline and can create a series of physical and emotional roller coaster rides.
Decreased Estrogen
Estrogen is a hormone that plays a vital role in maintaining the health and elasticity of the tissues of the vagina. When estrogen levels drop, it can lead to more annoying symptoms. Vaginal dryness is a common problem as the falling estrogen levels reduce the body's natural lubricant production. It can make sex feel more uncomfortable or even painful, as it can feel like driving on a dirt road instead of a smooth highway. In addition, the lower estrogen level can lead to vaginal atrophy, where the tissue in the vagina becomes thinner, less elastic and more fragile. It can make sex less pleasant and increase the risk of small tears and infections.
Progesterone and Testosterone
Progesterone is known for its role in the menstrual cycle, but it also has an impact on sexual desire. Along with testosterone also taking a dip, a drop in these hormones can result in a decreased libido. This means that you may not feel the same desire for sex as before, and so it can feel like a high mountain to climb, to plunge into new hot adventures. It can be frustrating and affect the intimacy in your relationship, but it is a COMPLETELY normal part of going through menopause.
Physical Symptoms
In addition to the direct hormonal effects, menopause can also cause other physical symptoms. Hot flashes and night sweats are common symptoms that can disrupt your sleep and leave you tired and irritable. When you feel like a zombie, it's not easy to find the desire for sex.
Some experience weight gain or that the body changes in other ways, which can create confusing feelings inside, because you may experience that your body is not as it used to be and you do not feel you can recognize yourself.
Psychological and emotional factors
Menopause is a time of many changes, and with that it is inevitable that the psyche is also affected. It is not uncommon to experience severe mood swings and symptoms of depression. When your mood is constantly changing, or when you feel depressed, it can be difficult to find the desire and energy to be intimate both with yourself and with others.
Concerns about body changes and body image can create barriers to sexual intimacy. It's natural to feel insecure about how your body looks and feels when you're going through so many changes. Some find that they become more reluctant to be sexual or completely avoid sexual situations for fear of being rejected or of not living up to your own or your partner's expectations.
Dealing with these emotional challenges takes time, patience, and a good dose of self-love. It can help to talk openly with your partner about how you're feeling, so that together you can find ways to rebuild intimacy. Seeking support from a therapist or counselor can also be a good idea if you need help dealing with all the changes.
Remember that menopause is a natural part of life and it's okay to give yourself space to get used to the new changes. By understanding and accepting your emotional experiences, you can slowly find new ways to enjoy intimacy.
Handling the changes <3
With all the changes that come with menopause, open communication is key. An honest talk with your partner about the changes you feel inside is worth its weight in gold. It can reduce misunderstandings and create a closer connection where you can find new ways to enjoy intimacy together.
For some, medical treatment is a great help. Hormone therapy can relieve some of the physical symptoms such as vaginal dryness and hot flashes. Topical estrogen preparations such as creams or pessaries can specifically improve vaginal health without major systemic side effects. Some find that hormone therapy makes a huge difference and helps them feel more comfortable through the changes.
Lifestyle
There is nothing new in the fact that it is good for the body to exercise and eat a healthy and nutritious diet. But also in relation to menopause, you can positively influence it by exercising and eating well. Exercise releases endorphins, which help reduce stress and increase your overall sense of well-being. By eating a balanced diet full of nutrients, you can help maintain hormone balance and support your overall health. Foods rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants can improve your energy and vitality, which in turn can positively affect your sex drive.
Sexual Health
During menopause, many bodily changes occur, so let's just state that it is perfectly okay to use aids! For vaginal dryness, a good lubricant can make a huge difference. Lubricant reduces discomfort during sex and makes it all slide a little easier. It's a simple trick, but it can really make a big difference.
Sexual therapy can also be a great help in tackling emotional and psychological barriers that can stand in the way of your sexual life. A sexologist can give you and your partner tools and strategies to deal with the changes and create fertile ground for better communication and more intimacy. By opening up and working together, you can find new ways to enjoy each other and strengthen your relationship.
Menopause brings many changes and is a very challenging period for most people, so you are by no means alone. Be good, nice and patient with yourself while you get to know some new sides of yourself (or of your partner).