Sex And Menopause

• How does menopause affect your sex drive?
• Do all menopausal women experience a decrease in sexual desire?
• What can I do to treat vaginal dryness?
• How can I improve my sex drive?
• What can I do to increase intimacy with my partner?
• Do I still have to worry about sexually transmitted diseases?
• How can I protect myself from sexually transmitted diseases?

How Does Menopause Affect Your Sex Drive?

The loss of estrogen following menopause can lead to changes in a woman's sexual functioning. Menopausal women may notice that they are not as easily aroused, and may be less sensitive to touching and stroking -- which can result in decreased interest in sex.

In addition, lower levels of estrogen can cause a decrease in blood supply to the vagina. This decreased blood flow can affect vaginal lubrication, causing the vagina to be too dry for comfortable intercourse.

A lower estrogen level is not the only culprit behind a decreased libido; there are numerous other factors that may influence a woman's interest in sexual activity during menopause and after. These include:

• Bladder control problems
• Sleep disturbances
• Depression or anxiety
• Stress
• Medications
• Health concerns

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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