It’s common for couples to experience a dip in their sex lives when women transition into menopause. Between hormone changes, vaginal discomfort, exhaustion and emotional ups and downs, many women report just not being “in the mood.” Partners may feel disconnected or rejected when sex slows to a halt.
If you find yourself avoiding intimacy and cringing at the thought of lovemaking, don’t despair – it’s possible to turn things around with some effort and understanding from both parties.
Communicate Openly But Gently
Have honest conversations about your needs, feelings and challenges around sex but come from a place of understanding. This is new territory for both of you. Listen without judgement and avoid criticism. Listening and being heard can lead to a better understanding of each other’s perspectives.
Prioritize Emotional Intimacy
Don’t put all the focus on intercourse. Spend quality time together, hold hands, discuss your days, slow dance – nurture emotional closeness. Affection breeds desire.
Explore Alternative Forms of Intimacy
Intimacy doesn’t always have to revolve around sexual intercourse. If penetrative sex is too uncomfortable, keep touch alive in other ways – cuddling, massage, manually stimulating each other. Meet halfway.
Shift Your Mindset
Release shame or obligation around sex. Do some self-care practices to get into your body and out of your head. Feel deserving of pleasure.
Try a Supplement
Exploring supplements to enhance libido can be a proactive step in revitalizing your intimate life. Maca, tribulus, shatavari and more have been shown to enhance sexual response in women. While not a magic bullet, the right formula can help increase blood flow, sensitivity, lubrication and pleasure.
Remember, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any supplement to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your specific needs and health status.
Seek Professional Help
It’s worth reiterating that a qualified therapist, especially one experienced in sexual issues and relationships, can provide valuable guidance and tools for improving intimacy and communication.
Involve a Relationship Coach
Related to therapy, relationship coaches can offer valuable insights and strategies for improving intimacy and communication. They can provide an alternative perspective and actionable advice.
Address Medical Issues
See your doctor to address pain, vaginal dryness, low desire – solutions exist! Hormone therapy, lubricants and devices can help. If low desire is related to health issues, addressing them may improve the situation.
Be Patient and Understanding
Understand that changes in desire can be temporary and related to factors like stress, hormonal changes, or life transitions. Patience and support from both partners can help navigate these phases.
Experiment and Adapt
Be open to trying new things in the bedroom. Experimentation can rekindle the spark. However, always ensure that both partners are comfortable and consent to any changes.
Evaluate the Relationship
It’s essential to periodically evaluate the overall health of the relationship. If both partners are unhappy and communication has broken down despite efforts to address the issue, it may be time to consider whether the relationship is meeting the needs and desires of both individuals.
Seek Legal Advice
Divorce is a significant decision and should not be taken lightly. If, after seeking professional help and trying various strategies, a couple finds their needs cannot be met within the marriage, it may be time to consult a legal professional to understand the implications of divorce.
Ultimately, the decision to divorce is deeply personal and should be made after careful consideration and exploration of all available options. It’s crucial to prioritize mental and emotional well-being and seek the support needed to make the best decision for both individuals involved.
With care, compromise and commitment, you can move through this rough patch together. Prioritize intimacy and don’t lose hope. Your sex life can thrive again in time.
