Sexuality plays an important role in everyday life throughout our lives. It also defines our relationship with ourselves and our partner. Older people being no longer sexually active is a myth. The desire for love, affection and physical closeness does not disappear just because men and women get older. Menopause can affect women’s sexuality in two ways.
Two ways to see it
Many women cannot enjoy their sexuality in a relaxed way later in life. This may be because they no longer feel attractive or fit, or because they suffer from menopausal symptoms. But there are also women who feel even freer in their sexuality. Finally, there is no more annoying menstrual bleeding, and the need for contraception is also gone! In many households, even the children have already moved out by this time, and these factors altogether can have an invigorating effect on the partnership and arouse the desire for a fresh start - even sexually.
Pay attention to yourself
Surveys have shown that a satisfying sex life is important for the majority of women even in old age, despite the fact that menopause can have a negative impact on it. One of the main problems with hormonal changes is increasing vaginal dryness, which can cause pain during both urination and intercourse. Possible bladder weakness and recurrent bladder infections may also affect women's sex life negatively, taking the fun out of sexual activities.
Is it even menopause?
Libido can also diminish over time, as sexual desire is mainly dependent on hormones, among other things. Sexual aversion in most cases has nothing to do with women no longer loving their partners. Regular sex life often gets lost in the daily stress, and as time passes, women may no longer feel as attractive as before. Menopause certainly does not make things easier. Hot flashes, sleep problems, mood swings and the lack of rest may contribute to the loss of interest as well as to the diminishing of desire for the same partner over time.
In the absence of sexual desire not only estrogen, but also the male sex hormone testosterone is a crucial factor. Testosterone levels also decrease in women with advanced age, which can lead to a lack of pleasure. If necessary, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist and consider testosterone therapy in affected women.
Let’s talk about it!
Many women do not dare to talk to their partner about their pain or lack of desire. They are ashamed and sometimes feel guilty. For this reason, they conceal their complaints, often making the situation worse. Making flimsy excuses to the partner makes the relationship suffer, but if she can confide in him, he will certainly be understanding.
Sexuality does not only mean sexual intercourse, but also intimacy, which can manifest in many forms. Open and honest communication between partners can make the menopausal years easier. Getting to know each other's thoughts and feelings can open new doors in the relationship, and the change can even deepen the emotions and the attachment to each other.