Menopause is a brand new phase of life for women. It's when the menstrual cycle ends, marking the end of one's reproductive years.

And while there's a lot of stigma and negative connotations attached to menopause, especially concerning sex and one's libido, menopause isn't actually something to fear. In fact, it can be quite freeing and empowering for women.

It's a time for a women's self-knowledge, self-love, and self-esteem to blossom, and to finally have the time for themselves to focus on their own interests and find an even stronger voice to communicate effectively.

Also, there are a slew of benefits attached to menopause... yes, really! For one, you can kiss PMS goodbye, you can have sex without worrying about pregnancy, and—if you have children—it's a time when they're growing older and you have the freedom to pursue new or other professional and personal ambitions. 

Sex and Menopause

While many find themselves worried about how their sex life will unfold during menopause, it could be a time of sincere growth, healing, pleasure, and satisfaction. We're not saying that menopause is a walk in the park... it by no means is. However, instead of only looking at the negative, there are positive things that can take place during this period of life.

But first, how does menopause affect your libido?

How Does Menopause Affect Your Libido?

During menopause, the sex hormones (testosterone and estrogen) begin to decline. And with that, women may experience vaginal dryness and tightness—both of which can cause pain or discomfort during sex. But there are remedies for this, such as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), which will reduce these symptoms, making sex enjoyable once again.

Some other symptoms of menopause can include feelings of depression, mood swings, weight gain, and hot flashes. But there are remedies for this too. Taking an anti-depressant such as Wellbutrin, for example, could help with depressiveness without reducing your libido (unlike other drugs like certain SSRI's). Also, this kind of medication could help you to feel more confident in your body, which is also a big factor when it comes to feeling aroused.

Having said that, not all women have lower levels libido nor experience depressive symptoms during menopause. In fact, some women have said that their sex life improved during this important phase.

How to Improve Your Sex Drive During & After Menopause?

The good news is, if you are living with a loss of sex drive during or after menopause, there are a number of different ways you can bring your libido back up again!

15 Ways You can Improve Your Sex Drive During and After Menopause

1. Lubrication: Find a great lubricant to use during penetration to reduce vaginal dryness

2. Kegels: Practice Kegel exercises, which will help to tighten your pelvic muscles, making sex more enjoyable

3. Foreplay: Focus on foreplay instead of merely penetrative acts

4. Intimacy: Focus on intimacy with your partner, such as cuddling and deep kissing, which could help to increase levels of arousal

5. Communication: Communicate your thoughts and experiences with your partner, which may make you feel more connected, and thus more in the mood for sex

6. Exercise: Exercising regularly can help to elevate your mood with the rush of endorphins, which could combat feelings of depression or low mood

7. Hormone Replacement Therapy: Try a HRT, which can replace the hormones your body is no longer making

8. Be Creative: Compromise with your partner, finding new and creative ways to be intimate so that both of you are comfortable and satisfied

9. Experiment: Try new things in the bedroom that don't involve penetration, like sensual massages, watching erotic films, or mutual masturbation

10. Creams & Suppositories: Use a topical estrogen cream or suppository, which can help to plump up the vaginal tissue and increase lubrication

11. Increase Blood Flow: Try a device that increases genital flow to the clitoris via a gentle vacuum, inducing arousal

12. Alcohol: Reduce alcohol intake, as too much could make it difficult to reach orgasm

13. Distraction Techniques: Try to remove pressure associated with enjoying sex and/or reach climax by use distraction techniques such as reading erotic fantasy novels, engaging in role play, or watching something racy

14. Love: Assess your relationship, as being in love can aid in your body's reaction to sexual desire

15. New Relationships: Be cautious about starting a new relationship during menopause, as your feelings may change after menopause

So while you may be feeling apprehensive about your looming menopause, be menopausal right now, or are post menopausal, there are several ways you can work around a loss of libido.

If this is something you're struggling with, we suggest giving a few of our suggestions a go. Or, you could visit a professional for your physical and/or mental health to get a more accurate assessment and prescription.

Don't suffer in silence, because menopause can be the start of an exciting and new adventure for you!