Celebrating Menopause Awareness Month
What Is Menopause?
Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life that signifies the end of her reproductive years. The menopause happens to everyone who has periods. Whilst it typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, menopause can happen earlier than this.
Menopause is defined as the point when a woman hasn’t had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. The transition phase leading up to this, called perimenopause, can last several years. During this time, hormonal changes cause a variety of symptoms.
Menopause can happen naturally, or as a result of various different surgeries, cancer treatments like chemotherapy, or a genetic reason. Sometimes the reason is unknown.
What Are The Symptoms Of Menopause and Perimenopause?
Both menopause and perimenopause can cause symptoms like anxiety, mood swings, brain fog, hot flushes and irregular periods. These symptoms can start years before your periods stop and carry on for some time afterwards too. For many women, menopause and perimenopause symptoms have a big impact on daily life, including in relationships and at work.
There are a range of menopause symptoms and everyone will experience these differently. Menopause symptoms can range from mild to severe and vary for every woman.
The most common menopause symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, fatigue, and vaginal dryness. These symptoms are caused by fluctuations in hormones, especially estrogen.
Other common symptoms include mood swings, sleep issues, and decreased energy levels, all of which can have a significant impact on daily life.
How Does Menopause Affect Libido and Sex Life?
One of the less talked about but impactful effects of menopause is on a woman’s libido and sex life. The drop in estrogen can lead to vaginal dryness, making sex uncomfortable or painful. Additionally, changes in hormones can reduce sexual desire. The emotional shifts during menopause, including stress and mood swings, can also play a role in reduced sexual interest.
Unfortunately there are many unhelpful misconceptions that surround the subject of menopause and sex lives. This includes the myth that going through the menopause means your sex life is effectively over. Whilst the hormonal changes associated with menopause may change your experience and attitude towards sex, there are so many ways to enjoy pleasure and have an active sex life during and after menopause.
Solutions such as lubricants, vaginal moisturisers, and open communication with partners can help maintain intimacy and improve sexual wellness during menopause.
At SheSpot, we have curated a dedicated range of products that have been designed by women, for women, specifically to help support your pleasure and intimacy before, during and after menopause. Take a look at our menopause and perimenopause collection.