THE MENOPAUSE AND SEXUAL DESIRE
Presented by Lady Layla
There is no doubt that the menopause affects a womans sex drive. Whereas the sex drive of men slowly diminishes with age a womans can come to an abrupt halt with the menopause.
Women hit the menopause generally between the ages of 45 and 55. The years preceding menopause can also be unpleasant as the amount of oestrogen produced becomes diminished. As less and less oestrogen is produced the blood flow to the vagina and clitoris decreases causing a loss of sensitivity. The vagina can become dry and uninviting making sex uncomfortable or even painful. There is also an accumulation of visceral fat which is fat that wraps around organs in your belly that are deep inside a person. It can surround the liver, intestines, stomach, and other internal organs. Periods become less frequent. Basically, the ability to reproduce is declining and with it the desire to have sex. Not only do women lose interest in sex but it can also be unpleasant due to the lack of lubrication.
Despite the problems, many women want to make themselves available to their partners for sexual intercourse. Often men do not understand the problem and experience the feeling of rejection. Sex between loving couples is an important part of any relationship and should be preserved wherever possible. Couples should talk and be clear about any problems. Men don’t go through the menopause and so cannot fully understand unless they are told. Ignoring a problem makes things worse. Discussing it leads to a deeper and more fulfilling relationship with a greater understanding.
It is worth considering if anything can be done to help with the situation.
Hormone Replacement Therapy is effective. This is taken either by pills or in patches. A doctor should be able to identify the best source of oestrogen and the required dose. It may be that it is preferable to enjoy sex without penetration and this can be most enjoyable. The use of sex toys is to be recommended as is role-playing. Anything that makes things fun will help.
Oral Sex is the answer for some couples and this option should not be dismissed. If penetration is still desired then the use of lubricants is advised.
It has been suggested that an increase in nitric oxide in the body can improve things. This acts as a vasodilator and as such improves the blood flow to the clitoris. Adding more greens, and citrus fruit to a diet increases the nitrates, which convert to nitric oxide.
Other remedies have been suggested such as Testosterone and Viagra but all of these should be discussed with a Doctor.
That women go through the menopause is a fact of life and the fact that it can be unpleasant is obvious. However, everything possible should be done to minimise the effects. When it comes to sexual relationships it all should start with communication between partners.They should find the best way through it together as a couple and minimise the problem as much as possible.