Menopausal women's sexual arousal varies. There are women whose sexual desire has decreased, there are also those whose passion is maintained or even increases once they enter menopause.
Menopause is a condition marked by the end of the menstrual cycle. Menopause affects the production of hormones in the body, so menopausal women's sexual arousal can also experience changes.
Understanding the Causes of Changes in Sexual Arousal in Menopausal Women
Changes in sexual arousal in menopausal women are generally caused by changes in hormone levels in the body. During menopause, levels of the hormone estrogen, which plays an important role in sexual function, will decrease. In effect, postmenopausal women are more difficult to get aroused and have an orgasm.
Decreased levels of the hormone estrogen in the body of postmenopausal women also reduce blood flow to the vagina. In effect, there is a decrease in the production of vaginal lubricating fluid which causes the vagina to become dry. This condition makes sexual intercourse painful, thus making menopausal women reluctant to have sex.
In addition to hormonal changes, decreased sexual desire in menopausal women can also be caused by depression, stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, and certain health disorders.
Complaints of decreased sexual arousal after menopause are experienced by most women. However, there are also those whose sexual arousal actually increases once they enter menopause.
This is influenced by psychological factors, for example because menopausal women no longer need to worry about unwanted pregnancies and most menopausal women no longer bear the responsibility of raising children. This causes menopausal women to be more relaxed and enjoy intimate relationships with their partners.
Coping with Menopausal Women's Changes in Sexual Arousal
To overcome changes in sexual arousal that occur in menopausal women, especially decreased sex drive, there are several ways that can be done, namely:
1. Using lubricating fluid
If the decreased sex drive is caused by vaginal dryness, you can use lubricants to make sex more comfortable. However, avoid using oil-based lubricants (oil-based).
2. Do exercise regularly
Regular exercise can be one way to reduce stress and improve mood. A good mood is believed to increase sexual arousal in menopausal women.
3. Establish communication with partner
Decreased sexual desire in menopausal women can be caused by a lack of communication with a partner. Therefore, talk about what you and your partner want to make sexual relations more enjoyable.
4. Undergoing hormone therapy
Some women choose to do estrogen hormone therapy to help increase their sex drive. You can consult with your doctor to find out hormone therapy and medication that can increase sexual desire and overcome various health problems that arise during menopause.
now, for those of you whose sexual arousal actually increases during menopause, don't just stick to sexual relations. There are many other ways that can be done to establish intimacy with your partner, such as going on a date, going for a walk, or having a romantic dinner.
If changes in sexual desire after menopause are disturbing and make you or your partner feel uncomfortable, you should consult a doctor, so that your sexual life and intimacy with your partner are maintained.