Menopause is a significant phase of a woman’s life that marks the end of her reproductive years and comes with various physical and emotional changes. Among these changes, shifts in sexual health and intimacy can be particularly challenging, with approximately 50% of menopausal women stating that menopause negatively affects their sex life.
At Toowoomba Obstetrics and Gynaecology, we provide compassionate care and help women navigate menopause with confidence. Today we will explore the impact of menopause on sex life and offer advice for regaining intimate relationships that are satisfying and fulfilling.
Understanding Menopause
Menopause is defined as the absence of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months. It usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, although the timing can vary for each woman. During menopause, there is a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels, which leads to various physical and emotional symptoms, including the following:
- Hot flashes
- Weight gain
- Thinning hair
- Mood swings
- Vaginal dryness or itchiness
- Changes in libido
- Breast tenderness
- Urinary incontinence
- Joint pain
Physical Impacts on Sex Life
Menopause can significantly impact a woman’s sexual health and intimacy due to a multidimensional range of factors.
In terms of the physical impacts of menopause on sex life, the decline in hormone levels can cause vaginal dryness, thinning of the vaginal tissues, and decreased blood flow to the genital area, resulting in discomfort or pain during intercourse. This is known as dyspareunia and can extend after menopause, with 17% to 45% (depending on the study) of postmenopausal women relaying that they experience pain during intercourse.
During menopause, women are also more susceptible to vaginal bacterial infections, which can impact sexual activity.
Menopausal changes can make it more difficult for women to reach orgasm, and orgasms experienced may be less powerful. Also, increased sensitivity during menopause may reduce one’s desire to be touched.
Additionally, reduced estrogen can contribute to a decrease in libido or sex drive for some women.
Emotional Impacts on
Sex Life
If you are diagnosed with the condition, your healthcare team will provide guidance as to managing the condition for optimal birth outcomes.
Emotional changes are often experienced during menopause due to reduced hormone production. Mood swings, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and irritability are common menopausal symptoms, and such can impact a woman's interest in and enjoyment of sexual activity.
Menopause can also coincide with other life changes, such as children leaving home, retirement, or caring for aging parents. These transitions can strain relationships and affect the emotional connection between partners.
Furthermore, menopause may be accompanied by uncertainties and fears about aging, health, and changes in sexual function. These fears and anxieties can create a barrier to sexual enjoyment.
As menopause signifies the end of a woman’s reproductive years, it can also bring a sense of loss or grief. The transition can evoke complex emotions and a reassessment of one's identity, impacting one’s sex life and desire.
Body Image and Sexual Health
Menopause often brings changes in a woman's body, such as weight gain and changes in breast size, skin, and body hair. These physical changes can affect a woman's self-esteem and body image, and women may feel less confident and desirable, impacting sexual intimacy and enjoyment. This is amplified by ingrained Western societal values which wrongly portray older women as less desirable and sexual.
Regaining Sexual Fulfillment
Although menopause often impacts one’s sex life, the team at TOAG is here to explain your options. You can implement numerous medical, lifestyle, relational, and personal strategies to better your sex life and experience pleasure during and after menopause.
Open Communication
Open and honest communication with your partner is vital. Discussing your concerns, desires, and any physical or emotional changes can help foster understanding, empathy, and intimacy. Ensure that both yourself and your partner feel comfortable expressing needs and concerns without judgment.
Self-Care and Lifestyle Adjustments
Taking care of your overall well-being can positively impact your sex life. Incorporating healthy habits such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress reduction techniques, herbal supplements, and quality sleep can enhance your energy levels, mood, and overall sexual health.
Specifically, pelvic floor therapy can positively impact a woman's sex life by improving pelvic muscle strength, reducing pain, and enhancing function.
Professional Mental Health Services
If you are experiencing persistent mental health challenges that impact your daily life, visit a mental health professional for support. Mental health services can foster your well-being and may be targeted towards improving your sex life. Relationship and sex counselling can also support couples as they navigate the changes associated with menopause.
Sexual Exploration and Intimacy
Menopause can be an opportunity to explore new avenues of intimacy and sexual satisfaction. Engaging in non-penetrative sexual activities can help maintain a sense of closeness and pleasure. Experimenting with different positions, sexual aids, or lubricants can also enhance comfort and pleasure during intercourse. Remember, it’s important to go at your own pace and focus on what feels pleasurable and comfortable.
Medical Support and Interventions
If you are seeking treatment or management options for your menopause symptoms, visit your GP and request a referral to Toowoomba Obstetrics and Gynaecology. There are many medical options available – at TOAG or other relevant healthcare locations – to better your sex life, including:
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): HRT can alleviate menopausal symptoms and enhance libido, arousal, sexual desire, and vaginal elasticity. HRT can come as patches, gels, tablets, or other forms.
- Intra-uterine devices (IUDs): Hormonal IUDs can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce heavy or irregular bleeding and other menopause symptoms.
- Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs): By stabilising hormone levels, OCPs can help alleviate menopausal symptoms, promoting overall well-being and sexual satisfaction.
- MonaLisa Touch: MonaLisa Touch is a non-surgical laser therapy that stimulates collagen production in the vaginal tissues, improving elasticity and lubrication.
- Vaginal moisturisers: Medicated vaginal moisturisers are gels or creams that hydrate the vaginal tissues and enhance lubrication, reducing friction and discomfort during intercourse.
It’s important to note that the effectiveness of these interventions can vary among individuals. Healthcare professionals at TOAG can determine the most suitable approach based on your needs and medical history.
While menopause can present challenges, with the right knowledge and support, women can maintain a fulfilling and satisfying sex life during and after menopause. At Toowoomba Obstetrics and Gynaecology, we are committed to providing evidence-based, respectful, and empathetic care to manage women’s menopause symptoms for more fulfilling lives. You are not alone, and support is available to help you thrive during menopause.
Contact TOAG today to learn more about how we can support you.