Menopause can trigger many uncomfortable symptoms, such as vaginal dryness, weight gain, hot flashes, night sweats, irregular periods, and mood swings. All of this, in conjunction with a loss in libido, can really put a damper on your sex life. How can you keep the intimacy alive when you feel your desire has died? Read on to find out how to reignite the fire in your relationship.
The Truth about Low Libido
Your loss of libido may be caused by something outside of your immediate control - your hormones. During menopause, the body secretes less estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, three hormones that play a pivotal role in sexual function and desire. Outside factors contributing to low libido include stress, relationship problems, and certain prescription medications. Yet, your relationship shouldn't have to suffer as a result of these changes. Here are some tips to rekindle your intimacy with your partner:
Communication is key
Though it may seem embarrassing to talk to your partner about your decreased sex drive, communication will ease the tension. Let your partner know what's on your mind so that you can solve the problem together. Remember that just because you are going through the menopausal transition doesn't mean that your partner finds you less desirable or attractive.
De-stress
Practicing meditation or yoga can go a long way in relieving the stress and anxiety you may feel as a result of your changing body. Yoga also helps increase flexibility, strengthen pelvic muscles, and increase blood flow, giving you a leaner, more timber physique, which can increase confidence. Couple's yoga is a great way to get comfortable with your partner and reignite that bedroom passion.
Plan some alone time with your partner
The pressures of work and home life can put added stress on your relationship and your sex life. If possible, plan a weekend getaway for just the two of you and spend the weekend doing things you both love. The valuable alone time will go a long way in helping you unwind.
Recommendation
In addition to these lifestyle tips, women who suffer from low libido may seek treatment for hormonal imbalance. Herbal supplements, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are two popular choices. Click here to learn more information about treatments for low libido.
Sources
- National Institutes of Health. (2013). Physical activity. Retrieved April 21, 2014, from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001941.htm
- NYU Langone Medical Center. (2014). Maca. Retrieved April 21, 2014, from http://www.med.nyu.edu/content?ChunkIID=104590
- Trafton, A. (2011). The benefits of meditation. Retrieved April 21, 2014, from http://web.mit.edu/newsoffice/2011/meditation-0505.html
- University of Maryland Medical Center. (2013). Red clover. Retrieved April 21, 2014, from http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/red-clover