How Your Vagina Changes During Menopause

Menopause is a condition that women experience either just before or after they stop menstruating, marking the end of her reproductive period. For most women, the age menopause takes place is after 45; however, menopause can come at an earlier age as a result of surgery, polycystic ovary syndrome, or hormone imbalance. 

Menopause is something that happens to all women at some point in their life; however, it’s not something that should have a big negative impact on your sex life. Here are 5 common changes that you might experience as you deal with menopause:
 

Vaginal dryness

Estrogen encourages blood flow in the pelvic region, which stimulates the production of lubrication in the vagina. During and after menopause, estrogen levels can be low, resulting in less moisture in the vaginal area. This could result in irritation, particularly during sex. It is recommended that if you are dealing with vaginal dryness during intercourse, add a water-based lube to help ease any discomfort that you might face. Add a vaginal moisturizer to your routine to help increase comfort. 

Bladder leaks

Although it may be an uncomfortable subject to tackle, common factors such as hormonal changes and childbirth can weaken the pelvic floor, resulting in less bladder control and bladder irritation. To help strengthen this area, incorporate regular pelvic floor exercises (also known as Kegell exercises) to your daily routine. This easy and quick exercise can help tighten up your pelvic floor and allow you more control over your bladder.
 

Loss of sensitivity

Similar to vaginal dryness, the decline in estrogen and decreased blood supply to the vagina can impact the amount of pleasure a woman can experience when stimulated. The clitoris contains at least 8,000 sensory nerve endings which can become less sensitive as you age, making it more difficult to climax. However, don’t let the effects of menopause discourage you from intimacy with your partner. Instead, try to find a way that you and your partner can bring sensitivity to other areas of the body. Whether it’s using a sex toy to stimulate areas such as the nipples or exploring other erogenous zones, finding a way to achieve pleasure in the bedroom can be a fun bonding moment between you and your partner.

Vaginal tightness

Menopause can reduce the elasticity in your vagina, making it potentially smaller and tighter. Before intimacy takes place, it’s important to stimulate the vaginal area, as you may experiences a decrease in vaginal lubrication due to menopausal symptoms. However, there is something to alleviate that. Before intimacy with your partner, try adding a lubricant to comfort your dry intimate areas. Remember, to explore what feels good and what positions are comfortable and painless for the both of you. 
 

Infections

Estrogen plays a big part in helping to keep your vagina infection-free. However, with a decrease in estrogen due to menopause, women are more prone to urinary and vaginal infections. If this happens, it’s important to refrain from sex until the infection has cleared, as this will only further irritate the infection. However, you can still be intimate with your partner. Try using a massage crème.

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