Loss of libido is very common during menopause, and many women find it highly frustrating and embarrassing because they can't understand their lack of sexual desire. As a partner, try to be supportive and understanding throughout this difficult phase. If you are looking for ways of intensifying the intimacy of your relationship together, read on to discover how even food plays its part.
4 Easy Steps to Deal with Your Partner's Loss of Libido
Show off your skills
During menopause women can suffer from a variety of undesirable symptoms which can leave them feeling frustrated and drained. By making small gestures, like cooking for your partner, you can help elevate her mood and demonstrate your support. Run her a bath to unwind in while you prepare some dinner.
Cook with the right foods
In addition to cooking your partners favorite foods, discuss creating meals that include natural aphrodisiacs. Foods like oysters and salmon, which are high in zinc, will increase testosterone levels as will foods that are high in vitamin E, like asparagus.
Create the right mood
Create an atmosphere that allows you both to have some uninterrupted time as a couple. If you have kids, organize for them to be out for the evening. Draw the curtains on the stresses of the outside world, light some candles and put on some music. Sensual lighting can also make the mood more intimate and allow you both to relax.
Take dessert to the bedroom
During menopause it is important that sexual activities takes place slowly so that the female body has enough time to prepare for intercourse. Foreplay is therefore an essential tool for increasing genitalia blood flow. Shake your routine up a bit and finish dessert in the bedroom as part of foreplay.
It is important to be aware that loss of libido is sometimes intensified or brought about by vaginal dryness. In order to counteract this spend more time engaging in foreplay and invest in a water based lubricant. It's vital to remain aware that your partner's body might require more time to prepare for penetration than before.
More Information about Loss of Libido
Loss of libido is a very common symptom of menopause, anywhere between 20 - 40% of women experience it. Communicating with one another about your fears and insecurities is central to overcoming any intimacy issues menopause creates. Be understanding, and learn about what your wife is experiencing and why. Remember that the hormonal imbalances that trigger libido loss are naturally occurring phenomenon's that your partner has little control over.
Sources
- Studd, John."Loss of Libido and Menopause". The Management of Menopause. Annual Review 1998. Partenon Publishing.
- Channon L.D and Ballinger S.E. "Some Aspects of Sexuality and Vaginal Symptoms during Menopause and their Relation to Anxiety and Depression". British Journal of Medical Psychology. June 1986. 59 (2): 173-80.
- Sarell, Philip, M.D. "Psychosexual effects of menopause: Role of androgens". American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. March 1999. 180: 3S-II.