Reviewed by Dr. Kenton Bruice, MD
Reading time: five minutes
Menopause can feel like a rollercoaster ride, bringing along a variety of symptoms that can impact various facets of life, especially sexual desire. Many post-menopausal women experience a notable decrease in sex drive, which can strain relationships and create feelings of frustration and isolation.
You are not alone in this struggle! Understanding how menopause affects your body can help you regain control over your sex life and rekindle that desire.
In this blog, we will explain how fluctuating hormones affect sex drive and give you actionable tips to increase your libido and reignite the passion in your relationship.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Causes
To improve your sex drive, it’s important to understand the root causes. Here are three main factors influencing libido during menopause.
- Hormonal changes: As mentioned earlier, fluctuations in hormone levels significantly affect sexual desire during menopause. The decline in estrogen levels in menopausal and post menopausal women lead to a decrease in testosterone, which plays a vital role in maintaining libido and sexual function.
- Physical changes: Apart from hormonal changes, menopause brings about physical changes that can impact sex drive. Vaginal dryness and discomfort can make sexual activity uncomfortable or even painful, leading to a decline in desire.
- Psychological factors: Mood swings and stress are common during menopause. These psychological factors can also contribute to a decrease in libido as they affect our overall wellbeing and mindset towards sex.
Lifestyle Changes to Boost Libido
While menopause may have an impact on your sex drive, certain lifestyle choices can help improve it significantly. Here are some tips that you can incorporate into your daily routine:
- Regular exercise not only improves physical health but also releases endorphins that boost mood and overall wellbeing.
- A healthy diet rich in nutritious foods can increase energy levels and positively influence hormone levels, making you feel more energized and in the mood for sex.
- Stress reduction techniques like yoga or meditation can help alleviate stress and anxiety, allowing you to relax and focus on enjoying intimacy with your partner.
- Improved sleep habits can also play a crucial role in increasing libido. Getting enough rest can reduce fatigue and improve mood.
Medical Treatments and Therapies
If lifestyle changes don’t seem to be enough, there are other options available to help increase sexual desire during menopause:
- Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) involves supplementing hormones to help balance hormone levels and alleviate symptoms of menopause, including low libido.
- Vaginal lubricants can help alleviate discomfort caused by vaginal dryness, making intercourse more enjoyable.
- Some prescription medications, such as Osphena, can help treat moderate to severe vaginal dryness.
- Therapy and counseling can also be beneficial for addressing psychological factors that may be affecting libido. Speaking with a professional therapist or counselor can help you work through any underlying issues and regain confidence in your sexuality.
Open Communication with Your Partner
One of the most crucial aspects of increasing sex drive during menopause is open communication with your partner. Talk openly and honestly about your feelings, needs, and desires.
Find new ways to connect and be intimate can also help reignite the passion in your relationship. Experimenting with different forms of intimacy, such as cuddling, massage, or trying new things in the bedroom, can bring excitement and joy back into your sex life.
Couples therapy is also an effective way to work through the mental and emotional aspects of sexual desire and strengthen your relationship.
If you aren’t quite ready for therapy, there are many qualified experts online that can provide helpful advice. Check out Pillow Talks, where Sex Therapist Vanessa Marin offers relationship advice and sex tips for men and women in any type of relationship. Listen with your spouse or on your own and get actionable advice on improving your relationship and spicing up your sex life.
Embracing Change: A New Chapter in Your Sex Life
As we navigate the changes that come with menopause, it’s essential to remember that a fulfilling sex life is possible with the right support and guidance.
If you’re seeking a more tailored approach, consider booking an appointment with Dr. Kenton Bruice. He can provide expert guidance on managing menopausal symptoms through Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) to help you regain balance and improve your overall wellbeing.
If you are searching for a menopause specialist, book an appointment with Dr. Kenton Bruice today. For our Denver location, call (303) 957-6686. For our Aspen location, call (970) 925-6655. For our St. Louis, MO location, call (314) 222-7567. You may also request an appointment by completing the appointment request form.
FAQS
Will sex drive return after menopause?
This will depend on the person. Some women may experience an increase in libido after menopause, while others may not. Many women stay sexually active well into their 70s and beyond, so it’s possible for your sex drive to remain strong during and after menopause.
Can you orgasm after menopause?
Yes, it is possible to orgasm after menopause. However, some women may find that they need more stimulation or a longer time to reach orgasm due to changes in hormonal levels and vaginal dryness. Experimenting with different techniques and incorporating lubricants can help enhance sexual pleasure and achieve orgasm.
Can menopause cause pain during sex?
Yes, menopause can make sex painful due to vaginal dryness and discomfort. However, this is a common symptom that can be managed through various treatments such as vaginal moisturizers or estrogen therapy. It’s important to speak with your healthcare provider if you experience pain during intercourse to find the best solution for you.
Does bioidentical hormone replacement therapy increase libido?
BHRT can help increase libido by balancing hormones that are responsible for sexual desire and satisfaction. However, it is only one aspect of improving sex drive during menopause. Combining BHRT with lifestyle changes, open communication with your partner, and seeking therapy can provide the best results in enhancing libido.