Collection: Vaginal Dryness & Low Libido

Decreased sex drive has emotional and physical causes. Vaginal estrogen treatments can boost blood flow and lubrication. Lubricants can make sex more comfortable. Consider talking to a sex therapist or going to couples therapy if emotional or relationship issues affect your sex life. 

Maintaining a healthy sex life during menopause is all about communication. Talk to your partner about your needs and desires. Self-pleasure can be a great tool, both solo and with a partner. Staying physically active, using lubrication, and adding local vaginal estrogen can help manage vaginal dryness and pain due to menopause-related changes. This can make sex more enjoyable. Regular physical activity can also improve your libido by boosting your mood, reducing stress, and improving blood flow.

Sexuality encompasses all aspects of sexual behavior and not all of them are affected by menopause. However, menopause can impact sexual health. Hormonal changes and aging may affect libido, vaginal dryness, and body confidence. These factors can all influence your overall sexual experience, but there are ways to address them. 

Sexual pain after menopause is a common issue, mainly due to vaginal dryness and the thinning of vaginal tissues, a condition known as genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). These changes can make sexual activity uncomfortable and even painful. To manage it, consider using vaginal moisturizers and lubricants, and discuss other treatment options with your healthcare provider, including the most effective option, local vaginal estrogen therapies.

Relieving vaginal dryness without a prescription can be done with over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers and lubricants. Lubricants are intended to be used during sex with partner or on your own to make things more comfortable. Vaginal moisturizers can be used a few times a week as a maintenance or preventive measure to help vaginal tissues retain moisture. These products can be used independently, or together, to provide relief and make sex more comfortable. Regular sexual activity can also help maintain natural lubrication. Be sure to read the product labels and use them only as directed.

When it comes to vaginal moisture products, look for top picks that include hyaluronic acid and minimal, simple ingredients. These can provide long-lasting moisture and comfort. Your healthcare provider can recommend some of the best options based on your specific needs.

You can use a water-based lubricant as needed, whenever you have sex, or even during self-pleasure, to increase your comfort. There are also other types of lubricants including silicone-based and hybrid, each with their own pros and cons for safe use.

Regular physical activity can definitely improve your libido during menopause. Exercise helps boost your mood, reduce stress, and improve blood flow, which can all enhance your sexual desire. Aim for a mix of cardio and strength training to see the best results.

Managing painful sex due to vaginal dryness involves a few key steps. Use a water-based or silicone-based lubricant to reduce friction and discomfort. Vaginal moisturizers can provide longer-lasting relief meant to be part of your ongoing maintenance routine. If the pain persists, talk to your doctor about other treatment options, including prescription drugs.

Maintaining intimacy during menopause is all about open communication and finding what works for both of you. Use lubricants liberally to make sex more comfortable, consider vaginal estrogen, and consider exploring other forms of intimacy that don’t involve penetration, including the use of sex toys. Regular check-ins with your partner can help you both stay connected and supportive.

Low libido during menopause is typically multi-faceted: it can be caused by hormonal changes, particularly the drop in estrogen. These changes can affect vaginal lubrication and blood flow, leading to discomfort and reduced sexual desire. Emotional factors like body image, relationship stress, and mood changes can also play a role.

Treatment for low libido can (and should) involve hormonal and non-hormonal approaches. A holistic approach could include any of the following options. Vaginal estrogen treatments can help improve lubrication and blood flow, which in turn, can make sex comfortable again and thus more desirable. Systemic testosterone therapy is also a recommended treatment option for postmenopausal females with low libido. Non-hormonal options include lubricants, moisturizers, and pelvic physical therapy. Counseling or sex therapy can also be very beneficial if emotional factors are contributing to low libido.