Menopause Advice: Sexual Dysfunction

“As we age sexual health, and well-being can significantly affect our quality of life.  

Sexual dysfunction at the menopause and beyond is a common problem, but sadly often treated like the elephant in the room, with older women finding it difficult to talk about sexual health issues, and healthcare professionals often hesitant to ask about this rather taboo subject.

Lots of things can contribute to sexual problems through the menopausal transition and beyond. A drop in oestrogen levels at the menopause leads to thinning of the vaginal lining, and less lubrication, which can lead to discomfort with intercourse.

Other medical or gynaecological problems as we age can also lead to difficulty with sexual functioning. The partner’s sexual functioning also needs to be looked at as well, as there may be a combination of problems that is leading to poor communication between couples.

At Hormone Health we can do plenty to help optimise your sexual well-being. 

• We can assess your medical history, sexual history, and obstetric and gynaecological history, with any necessary examinations sensitively performed. 

• We must not forget that sexually transmitted diseases can be caught at any age, but these can be screened for and easily treated. 

• We can discuss lubricants and moisturisers, HRT or vaginal oestrogen to help with intercourse.

• Pelvic floor muscle training helps to improve the strength of the vaginal tissues. 

• We can help optimise hormone levels to ensure that women feel their best with stable oestrogen levels to aid good quality sleep and a stable mood.”