How Menopause Affects Libido And Your Sex Life

After bidding goodbye to my menstrual cycle at 49, intimacy turned into less of a pleasure and more of a struggle. At the time, my steady boyfriend and I had an active sex life, and my plummeting libido concerned me. Was I about to lose this part of my life? Despite the subtle changes, I longed and hoped that it was all an imaginary frill of my mind.

Endeavors to talk to my partner about how menopause was transforming my body and emotions were met with indifference - perhaps a reflection of my own reluctance to accept the changes. I even resorted to over-the-counter vaginal creams instead of seeking a legitimate medical prescription.

A regrettable truth is I lacked a confidante in the form of a doctor - a void that remains unfilled even now. Currently, without the demands of a relationship and a year without intimacy, my vaginal symptoms are less pressing. But the desire for a harmonious sexual life persists. I am eternally optimistic that it will return!

And so I thought I must dive into a topic many shy away from discussing – the impacts of menopause on libido. First and foremost, it's essential for us to understand that menopause is a natural stage in every woman's life, signaling the end of her reproductive cycle. This evolutionary transition often comes with several physical and emotional changes; some subtle, some more noticeable. 

One of the most commonly reported changes is a reduction in sexual drive or libido. This occurs due to the fluctuating, and eventually decreasing, levels of estrogen - a hormone primarily responsible for maintaining sexual desire. So how exactly does this happen? 

"When a woman enters the phase of menopause, her body goes through a significant hormonal roller coaster. This can manifest in various symptoms, one of them being a reduced sexual drive."

Now, for the key part: How do you navigate this transformation? The first step is acknowledging and understanding these changes.

To make it easier for you, we have listed down some ways in which menopause can affect your sex life: 

Decreased Sex Drive: The reduced levels of estrogen can lead to less interest in sex. This doesn't imply you can no longer have a fulfilled sex life; it just means your desire may need a different kind of stimulation or support.



Vaginal Dryness: Estrogen also plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and suppleness of the vaginal tissue. Reduction in its levels can cause vaginal dryness, leading to discomfort or pain during intercourse.



Emotional Changes: Mood swings, increased anxiety or feelings of depression can interfere with sexual desire. Emotional health is deeply intertwined with sexual health.

Menopause is a natural biological process that signifies the end of a woman's menstrual cycles. It's a normal part of aging that usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. While menopause can bring about a variety of changes in a woman's body, it's important to understand that it's not something to be feared, but rather to be aware of.

It's important to consult with a healthcare provider if you're experiencing any concerns or difficulties related to menopause. They can provide you with personalized advice and treatment options based on your specific needs and circumstances. Remember, menopause is a natural part of life that can be managed effectively with the right knowledge and resources.

*Name change on request