How Menopause Affects Natural Lubrication

Menopause is a natural part of a woman’s life that marks the end of her menstrual cycles, typically between ages 45 and 55. With this change, significant hormonal shifts occur in her body, and a common issue of these shifts is decreased natural lubrication. The resulting vaginal dryness can affect and cause discomfort during her intimate moments.

In this article, we explore how menopause impacts your natural lubrication and offer practical solutions to help you stay comfortable and enjoy intimate experiences during this time.

The Role of Oestrogen

One of the most significant changes during menopause is a drop in oestrogen levels. Oestrogen is crucial for maintaining vaginal health and lubrication. When these levels decrease, vaginal tissues can become thinner, drier, and less elastic, leading to a condition known as Vaginal Atrophy.

The Effects of Menopause on Your Natural Lubrication

Menopause causes a reduction in your body’s ability to produce natural lubrication, thus leading to:

• Vaginal Dryness: which can cause discomfort and irritation during sex.
• Thinning of the vaginal walls: which increases the fragility in this area and can lead to tearing and irritation of your delicate tissues during intercourse.
• Decreased elasticity in your vaginal tissues: which can make your intimate activities less comfortable.
• Increased vaginal pH levels: which can result in unwanted infection and irritation.

Practical Solutions for Improving Your Comfort & Intimacy

While these changes can be challenging, there are several solutions to help improve your comfort and maintain a satisfying sex life during and after menopause.

1. Use Personal Lubricants

• Water-based lubricants: are ideal for regular use, easy to clean, and compatible with all types of condoms and intimate products. They provide temporary relief from dryness and enhance comfort.
• Silicone-based lubes: are particularly beneficial for women experiencing dryness because they don't absorb into the skin, providing long-lasting moisture. Silicone tends to offer a smoother, more natural experience of personal moisture. Use sparingly. They offer superior lubrication during sex too, enhancing overall comfort.
• Oil-based lubricants: provide a nourishing feel and are great for massages and intimate moments. These lubes are suitable for intimacy, but not recommended for maintaining general personal moisture. For that, we recommend silicone-based lube.

2. Vaginal Moisturisers

Unlike lubes, which are used during intimate activity, vaginal moisturisers are used outside of intimacy to provide long-lasting hydration and improve your overall vaginal health.

3. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

HRT can help balance your hormone levels and ease many symptoms of menopause, including vaginal dryness. Consult your healthcare providers to discuss its benefits and risks. We always prefer suggesting natural remedies for your safety and health before considering HRT.

4. Regular Physical Intimacy

Engaging in regular intimate activity, including vaginal intercourse, promotes blood flow to your vaginal area, helping to maintain tissue health and natural lubrication.

5. Hydration & Diet

Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids supports overall vaginal health. Foods high in phytoestrogens, like soy products, may also help during menopause.

6. Avoid Irritants

Try to avoid using products that exacerbate dryness, such as vaginal douches, scented soaps, and lotions. Instead, opt for gentle, hypoallergenic and, preferably, natural products. Try changing your personal lubricant too, to a sensitive-skin lubricant.

In Closing

Menopause can affect your body’s natural lubrication negatively, but with the right approach, you can maintain comfort and pleasure in your sex life. With high-quality lubricants, vaginal moisturisers, and options like HRT (after discussing with your healthcare provider), you can make a significant difference in how you feel and function during menopause. Stay informed and proactive, and you’ll manage these changes effectively.

For more tips and products on this subject, explore our range of personal lubricants, where you will find perfect solutions for your needs.