Women Over 50: Menopause and Sex

Women go through major changes around and after the age of 50. These changes are physiological, psychological, as well as emotional. These changes are commonly grouped together and summed up into one condition, menopause. Menopause usually begins after age forty and ends shortly before or after age 60.

Menopause is one of the major changes that a woman will go through in her life and one of the scariest as well. There are things happening to her body that she does not quite understand and it is physically as well as emotionally draining. One of the reasons this stage is so emotionally draining is because the woman realizes that she will no longer be able to conceive a child. Having a child is one of the highlights of a woman's life that makes her feel young and vital. But when she can no longer bear a child, it is as if a part of her is dying.

Although this stage takes a toll on a woman, both physically and emotionally, it is important to understand that a woman is still a woman. This means that while her body is going through changes, she can and is still active, especially sexually. Although it is mostly a drop in sexual desire that is seen, this dramatic change in hormones can sometimes even make her sexual desires stronger.

After menopause has started there are many freedoms that come along, and many worries have left her mind as well. She no longer has to worry about unplanned pregnancies, and she is free from the bounds of menstruation. These are two major newfound freedoms that woman over 50 can enjoy. This freedom can spark something in women that they have not felt before. It is like a new lease on life.

The physical side effects that women suffer from during and after menopause can be counteracted for the most part. One menopausal symptom is vaginal dryness. Vaginal dryness can be very irritating and uncomfortable, but can often be soothed with vaginal lubrication products on the market today. A gynecologist can also prescribe or suggest something that will ease this transition. These products will make it easier to continue engaging in vaginal intercourse with minimal discomfort.

One of the most well known side effects of menopause is the decrease in estrogen hormone levels. This can cause a decrease in sexual urges as well, but can be combated by hormone replacement. Only a doctor can diagnose this. This can also put a woman back on track to continue to enjoy a healthy sex life even after her 50s and on into her 60s and 70s. You are as young as you feel. Your doctor or healthcare professional can help ease the transition to keep you going as seamlessly as possible.

If you are going through changes or your body or emotions are not as they once were, see your doctor right away as this does not always signal that menopause is coming. It can be something more serious, so check with your doctor promptly.