One's menopause years come with NEW CHALLENGES for couples.
While it brings about various physical and emotional changes, one area that is often affected during this time is intimacy and sexual health. Relationships can get strained due to the issues that come along with a woman's menopausal symptoms.
Psychological and physical symptoms that cause discomfort and mood swings may thus cause conflicts to arise. As such, the hormonal fluctuations and physical discomfort associated with menopause can have an impact on a woman's desire and experience of intimacy.
In order to navigate this transition successfully, here are three important things that every woman in menopause, as well as her partner, should know.
Understanding the Physical Changes
Menopause means that there is a steep decline in the production of estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that play a crucial role in a woman's sexual health. This hormonal shift can lead to a variety of physical changes, including vaginal dryness, decreased lubrication, and thinning of the vaginal walls. With this comes discomfort during sexual activity, making sexy time a bit more iffy and unsatisfying. It is therefore important for both parties to be aware of and understand the challenges that come with this change in sexual health. Adaptation is key if one would still like to derive maximum pleasure from such a key aspect of a romantic relationship.
To address these issues, there are several options available.
Water-based lubricants can help alleviate vaginal dryness and enhance comfort during intercourse.
Additionally, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or local estrogen treatments prescribed by a healthcare professional can provide relief from vaginal symptoms.
Open communication between partners about these physical changes is crucial to finding solutions that work for both individuals.
Nurturing Emotional Connection
Intimacy does not solely mean physical intimacy; it also involves emotional closeness and connection. Menopause can bring about a range of emotional changes, including mood swings, irritability, and reduced libido. These changes can affect a woman's self-esteem and body image, potentially impacting her willingness to engage in intimate activities. As such, it is particularly important for her partner to be ever more aware of how her body is changing.
Fostering open and empathetic communication is extremely effective in strengthening the emotional (and physical too) bonds between each other, while also building trust.
Engaging in activities that promote relaxation and reduce stress, such as taking walks together, practicing mindfulness, or enjoying shared hobbies, can also help nurture emotional connection.
Remember this!
Menopause is merely a transitional period and not a permanent state can provide reassurance and patience to both partners as they navigate these changes together.
Exploring New Forms of Intimacy
Menopause can be an opportunity for couples to explore new forms of intimacy and redefine their sexual relationship. Because of the changes within the body, the act of sex itself has to change to fit the mould it is in.
What better way to test boundaries and explore new ways of enjoyment than during this time?
However, with the physical changes that occur, it is important to be open to alternative ways of expressing intimacy and pleasure. This can involve focusing on sensual touch, exploring non-penetrative sexual activities, or engaging in mutual self-pleasure.
Yet, communication and consent are paramount when exploring new forms of intimacy.
Discussing desires and preferences can help create a safe and enjoyable environment for both partners.
Setting boundaries is especially important in order to make this period a satisfying, safe and pleasant experience.
It may also be beneficial to seek professional guidance from a sex therapist or counselor who specializes in menopause-related concerns. These experts can provide valuable insights, techniques, and strategies to enhance sexual satisfaction and intimacy during this phase of life.
By understanding and addressing the physical changes, nurturing emotional connection, and exploring new forms of intimacy, women and their partners can navigate this phase with patience, empathy, and a sense of adventure.
Remember, open communication, support, and a willingness to adapt can lead to a fulfilling and satisfying intimate life during and after menopause.
Important Notes:
This article is meant purely for informational purposes and should not be relied upon as medical advice. Always consult a medical professional for specific advice on your health. This article has not been reviewed by any medical professionals or legal bodies.