Your Libido After Menopause

By HelloLife

Menopause is a natural and normal occurrence that is defined as the final menstrual period. This is usually confirmed after the absence of the menstrual period for a period of twelve months. Menopause is the marker for the end of fertility and is associated with the lowered production of the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone. The natural process of menopause is also associated with various negative affects on the female libido.

Menopause and Libido

Menopause is a stage in life that is marked by many changes. The average age for menopause in American females is 51. The effects of menopause are vast, including changes in sexual satisfaction and libido. It should be noted that while aging is typically associated with slight decreases in sexual drives, it is possible to enjoy a satisfactory sex life before, during, and after menopause.

Enhancing Libido

There are certain methods that effectively rekindle the desire and pleasure of sexual activity back into the lives of menopausal women. The exact methods vary based on the individual. It is always recommended that you consult your physician before starting any treatments to discuss any potential problems, questions, and alternative treatment options. However, before libido can be effectively enhanced, the causes for loss of libido must be understood.

Menopause: The Causes of the Lost Libido

Menopause is a natural occurrence that will occur at some point during the life of a woman. Genetics and biology play a prominent role in the libido of a woman, menopause is no exception. Socialization also has a role; women are typically subjected to certain cultural standards that sexual activity is not ok. Relationship quality has major impacts on libido. There is a strong correlation between having a healthy and happy relationship and having a healthy and happy sex life. Life changes and hormones also play a role, both of which are caused by menopause.

Menopause: Signs and Symptoms

In addition to decreased libido, menopause is also associated with a wide variety of other signs and symptoms. Many of these signs and symptoms can also function to decrease libido as well.

Anxiety
Bladder control issues
Decreased libido
Depression
Hot flashes
Low libido
Mood swings
Night sweats
Sleep disturbances
Thinning hair
Vaginal dryness
Weight gain

Menopause Myths

There are many myths that are commonly associated with both menopause and libido.

Myth 1: Menopausal women do not enjoy sex. This is a blatant untruth. While it is true that menopause can be associated with overall decreases in sex drive, there are ways to overcome this obstacle. Many menopausal women have happy and healthy sex lives that are enjoyable.
Myth 2: Libido will drop permanently after menopause. This is another blatant untruth. Each individual woman will have a different response to menopause.
Myth 3: Sex after menopause will never be as good as it was before. Yet another blatant untruth. In fact, it is possible for the exact opposite to happen. Menopause is highly individualized, but it is important to maintain open lines of communication and intimacy.

The fact remains that menopause can be cause for decreased libido. It is up to you to choose to discover the correct method of treatment. Menopause does not have to be cause for an unhealthy and unhappy sex life due to lowered libido. Sources: http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/menopauselibido.htm http://www.menopause.org/default.htm http://www.webmd.com/menopause/guide/sex-menopause