Sex & desire during menopause

-How about horny, happy, and grateful?

In the Swedish film "Ogifta Par" one of the characters, played by Peter Dalle, throws out this memorable line during a violent argument with his wife, played by Lena Endre, as a reply when she frustratedly during one of their loud fights yells at him "How the hell do you want me to be then?" That phrase with its spot-on humor has become a classic that also opens the door to conversations about relationships, desire, and not least sex. Nowadays I actually (strangely enough) talk very little about sex with my girlfriends. It was different before. Before the time when relationships, work, and children dominated the conversations. There was a time in our “youth” when we balanced on the edge of complete boundarylessness as we breathlessly shared stories from the bedpost but we also exchanged several deep thoughts about sex and I remember that as valuable. Maybe we have “matured” and with age gained more integrity or that out of respect for our partner (and children?) we don’t want to “expose anyone”? Because I don’t really think it’s about disinterest. Now we are a bit older and many of us are approaching menopause with hormones riding a rollercoaster, where both mucous membranes and mood can go bananas. But the subject of sex is actually just as relevant now as then? So maybe it’s time again? Let’s talk about sex ❤

You can find the VagiVital Menopause FSH test here https://vagivital.se/products/vagivital-menopaus-fsh-test

FACTS & MYTHS ABOUT SEX & MENOPAUSE

All women have their own unique experiences and of course there are both physical and psychological challenges that women can face during menopause. Likewise, sex is something deeply individual, but many of us may also carry some preconceived notions about sex and menopause. Some of the most common ones might be:

🌸Decreased sexual desire

One of the most common problems but also prejudices is that women in menopause suddenly become as interested in sex as a cat is in bathing. The fact is that sexual desire is about as variable as Swedish summer weather – that is, completely unpredictable! For some women, menopause can actually open the door to a new era of passion ❤ and experience.

🌸Physically unattractive

That women would become like overripe fruit as soon as they reach menopause is a myth! Think again! Attraction has no expiration date and it is high time we throw this prejudice out the window. Women of all ages can be dazzlingly beautiful and seductive – age is just a number and attractiveness is mainly about confidence and charisma!

🌸Sexual incapacity

That menopause would lead to decreased sexual pleasure is obviously not a rule that applies to all women. Menopause does not necessarily mean that joy and pleasure in the bedroom disappear. In reality, many women instead experience a new sense of freedom and self-awareness that can make their sex life even more rewarding and satisfying.

🌸 Menopause is a negative event

During menopause, women can experience symptoms such as dry mucous membranes, mood swings, hot flashes, bodily pain, dizziness, palpitations, depression, and sleep difficulties... phew, the list can seem endless. Where do we find strength and confidence in all this? Can we use another word? "MENOPAUSE" perhaps? With a curve that rises straight up instead of down. Women over 50 often also possess a natural poise and navigate life with a certainty that is not marked by insecurity or self-criticism. Experienced, wise, and confident women in menopause who say YES when they want to and NO when they don't.

FIND OUT IF YOU ARE IN PERIMENOPAUSE/MENOPAUSE

VagiVital Menopause FSH test for perimenopause/menopause is designed to provide an indication if you are in perimenopause/menopause by measuring certain hormone levels. It can help you gain a better understanding of the symptoms you are experiencing and facilitate the decision on possible next steps, such as seeking professional medical advice or exploring appropriate treatment options. You can find the VagiVital Menopause FSH test here https://vagivital.se/products/vagivital-menopaus-fsh-test

Read the blog about MENOPAUSE here.

 
🌸 Problem with vaginal dryness

Many women suffer from dry mucous membranes but not all. And of course, you might not be very interested in sex if the genital area is as dry as the Sahara desert, but that can be fixed. One of the most common reviews from women who have used VagiVital AktivGel is actually that they have regained their sex life as the crystal-clear gel effectively moisturizes the mucous membranes over time, stimulates the growth of cells in the mucous membrane's surface layer, and restores pH – which makes intercourse possible again. ❤

"I have had problems with pain during intercourse and after using AktivGel daily, both my partner and I noticed a difference. It doesn't hurt as much anymore and my pH value has balanced. I am also not as dry and fragile anymore. I continue to use VagiVital AktivGel daily and can only say that it helps."

You can find VagiVital AktivGel here

STUDIES ON SEX AND MENOPAUSE – WHAT RESEARCH SAYS

Research on sex and desire during menopause has developed significantly in recent years. A common myth is that sexual desire dramatically decreases during menopause, but many studies have shown that this is not always the case. In fact, sexual desire varies greatly from individual to individual even during menopause and depends, of course, on a variety of factors such as hormonal changes, physical health, mental well-being, and relationships. Let's take a closer look at some studies that give us positive insights about sex and menopause.

🌸 Increased sexual desire

A study published in the journal "Menopause" examined sexual desire in women during and after menopause. The researchers found that a surprising majority of the women in the study reported an increase in sexual desire. This change was associated with several factors, including reduced fear of unwanted pregnancy and increased sexual self-esteem. The results suggest that menopause does not necessarily mean a decline in sexual desire, but can actually lead to newfound freedom and openness to sexual pleasure.

🌸 Self-esteem and body image

Another important aspect is self-esteem and confidence. Research published in "Psychology of Women Quarterly" showed that many women experienced improved self-esteem and increased comfort with their bodies after 50. This positive change in self-perception can be a crucial factor that positively affects sex life. When women feel more comfortable in their bodies, they are more likely to be present and enjoy intimate moments.

🌸Positive attitude and sexual satisfaction

In a study published in "The Journal of Sexual Medicine," the relationship between positive attitudes towards menopause and sexual satisfaction was examined. The results showed that women who had a positive attitude towards menopause and saw their aging as a natural part of life were more satisfied with their sex life. These women were also more likely to experiment and explore different aspects of sexual intimacy.

🌸Newly discovered pleasure

An article in the journal "Obstetrics & Gynecology" discusses how menopause can affect orgasm and sexual pleasure. It is emphasized that while some physical changes, such as decreased vaginal elasticity and dry mucous membranes, may occur during menopause, they can also mean that women explore new sources of pleasure and orgasms.

ORGASM AND MENOPAUSE

A common question is whether women in menopause experience changes in their ability to reach orgasm. Research suggests that this can also be an individual experience. There is no clear conclusion about whether it takes longer for women in menopause to have an orgasm. Some women may experience changes in sensitivity or arousal due to hormonal changes, while others may not notice any major changes at all. Menopause has traditionally been surrounded by some preconceived notions, many of them more negative than positive. But when it comes to sexual pleasure and orgasms, menopause can actually be a time of increased insight, freedom, and joy.

An inspiring interview is the blog with Monica Sundberg where she talks about her approach to desire and how to enrich one's sex life with pleasure as an important ingredient for well-being.

Read blog with Monica about sex, desire & pleasure at 60+

In summary, it is clear that desire can actually flourish for many women during menopause, and a positive attitude towards this phase of life can lead to a more satisfying sexual experience. It is important to remember that sexual pleasure and intimacy do not have a fixed "expiration date." Menopause does not necessarily mean that sexual pleasure and orgasms disappear. On the contrary, many women actually experience increased sexual satisfaction and intensity in their orgasm experience. Of course, it is still important to continue discussing the sometimes very troublesome symptoms that women can suffer from during menopause. But it is equally important to highlight the positive aspects of this phase – or should we perhaps say CLIMAXOPUSE?

Let's talk about sex - with an even deeper understanding and experience in the background ❤

Take care of yourself & Stay Pussytive ❤

By: Fanny Falkman Grinndal