Contrary to popular belief, women post-menopause still feel young in many ways. Some even feel liberated after going through menopause, reporting an increased interest in sex given they no longer have to worry about pregnancy, premenstrual symptoms, or menstruation. That’s not to say, however, that menopause doesn’t pose its challenges to her sexual functioning.

The physical and emotional changes that come with this time in her life are very individual and can affect women and their sexual selves – and relationships – very differently. During the pre-menopause and menopause phases of her life, a woman’s sexual functioning may involve:

o    Vaginal dryness due to lower estrogen and testosterone levels.

o    A vagina slightly shorter in length and smaller in diameter.

o    Tissue changes causing diminished sensation during vaginal intercourse.

o    Loss of vaginal elasticity.

o    Pain during penetration because of the thinning of her vaginal walls and decreased vaginal lubrication.

o    A decrease in the number and intensity of vaginal contractions.

o    Pain or soreness post-intercourse.

o    Mood and energy changes that impact her sex drive, thanks to a loss of estrogen.

Hormonal changes can also influence her sexual excitation, with arousal taking longer. Declining estrogen levels can cause excess weight to be stored on different parts of her body. Lower testosterone levels may also result in reduced muscle mass and tone. Any of these issues can impact her sexual self, identity as a woman, and body image, ultimately impacting her sexual desire and libido.

On the other hand, some women find themselves embracing their sexuality as never before. Feeling wiser, more appreciative of their bodies, and more accepting of themselves in so many ways, sex in the senior years becomes one of sexual rebirth. Those who practice patience, pleasure themselves, experiment, read up on senior sex, and maintain a healthy lifestyle are sure to fair the best.

After all, research published Personal Relationships  found that her sexual functioning is also influenced by other factors – like her overall health, her partner’s health, the quality of her relationship, life stressors, and sexual intimacy.

Photo courtesy Grauer Ionut on Wikimedia Commons.