How To Improve Intimacy After Menopause?

Testosterone and oestrogen loss after menopause may cause changes in the sexual drive and body. Postmenopausal women might notice a loss of sexual interest and may respond less to stroking and touching. That may lead to decreased libido. Lower oestrogen levels can lead to reduced blood flow in the vagina. That may adversely affect lubrication in the vagina. Vaginal dryness during or after menopause can be successfully treated by using water-based lubrication.

Lubricants which aren’t water soluble may weaken the latex in condoms. Until ovulation stops and the doctor confirms it, condoms are a must. Other kinds of lubricants make the vagina susceptible to bacterial growth. Consult your doctor regarding vaginal oestrogen-therapy.

Intimacy may take some time at the onset of menopause and isn’t something to get worried about. Counselling may not be required and the sex drive may get restored with time. It is important to build on intimacy during this period. Refrain from having intercourse if it makes you uncomfortable. Intimacy doesn’t have to always involve sex. Affection and love can be expressed in many other ways.

Here are a few tips to better intimacy without having sex:

1. Bond over erotic literature and videos and masturbation.
2. Relax and spend time with each other. Indulge in non-sexual acts like gym, television, videos and music.
3. Try new foreplay techniques. Such activities improve communication and can increase comfort levels between your partner and you. Oral sex and body massages are great starting points. Remember that the point of foreplay isn’t always sex.

Be frank when discussing your sexual problems with your doctor, even though talking about them may be hard. If need be, then your doctor might refer both your partner and you to a medical professional specialising in sexual problems and ailments. The therapist might further recommend a group or individual sexual counselling. Counselling with your partner is especially beneficial as it helps both of you to cope better with whatever your individual ailments may be. Counselling of this kind is very helpful even if it’s for a short while.