The answer is yes! The menopause affects your sex drive… but not necessarily in the way you think. Let’s start by reminding you not to worry: we all go through the menopause. It’s a natural process that generally occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.
Why does our libido change during the menopause?
During the menopause, our levels of oestrogen (the naturally occurring hormone involved in ovulation) and progesterone (the hormone produced by the ovaries) decrease. These new hormonal imbalances naturally lead to a host of physical and emotional changes! And yes – one of the most common changes women can experience during the menopause concerns our libido and relationship with desire. While it’s possible that this may diminish… while the experience can be extremely frustrating… while it’s an integral part of the ageing process, it’s by no means inevitable! And there are solutions!
Changes that can occur
A number of factors can contribute to a drop in your libido, so it’s essential to observe these changes to find the right course of action:
- Vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex, due to hormonal drops, can make intercourse less enjoyable. Don’t let this set in, talk to your partner about it and think about preparing the ground. Read our article on solutions to low libido.
- Fatigue, mood swings and other physical symptoms can also put a damper on your desire. The priority is to be able to overcome these symptoms and allow yourself to discover what suits you, what your deepest interests are, and how to be in tune with yourself!
This hormonal rollercoaster can put a strain on your libido, but the opposite is also possible! Start by talking to your gynaecologist so that you can get support quickly. In fact, this period can also be a journey of transformation towards a new level of authenticity – a new way of experiencing your sexuality.
What can you do to cope better with changes in libido during the menopause?
A curious and confident attitude can help you reawaken your sexuality and boost your libido! Your individuation, the process of self-realisation, is within your grasp. You need to make room for new tastes or those you’ve been repressing. Go and meet the parts of yourself that you’ve buried.
Shondaland and Dame Violet Bridgerton experience a real revelation in this season of Queen Charlotte. This beautiful and all too rare depiction of the awakening of the senses after midlife should inspire us all. Aware of who we are, we need to encourage each other to feel more confident and empowered, and to value a greater sense of sexual freedom and exploration.
Tame your new libido, trust your instincts, open up the conversation in a calm and constructive way to make the most of these new experiences!
Our expert
Dr. Colleen Draper
Dr. Colleen Draper studied in the United States and went on to become a Doctor of Dietetics. Dedicated to women’s health and well-being, she co-founded and runs the start-up PhenomX Health. As CEO, Dr. Colleen Draper works with women on a daily basis to offer them ultra-personalised, innovative solutions to help them achieve their full potential. Solutions to help them make the transition smoothly.
