For you, a guide article on how the female genital system changes in menopause and how, consequently, intimacy changes. Here’s everything you need to know to take these steps with confidence.
This article was written in collaboration with our staff of doctors and specialists
As menopause approaches , the changes in the body caused by the different hormone production affect, as is natural, the female genital system .
Specifically, it is the reduced production of estrogen , which already begins to decrease in premenopause and then collapses at a peak, to be responsible for the internal and external changes in the woman’s reproductive system.
In this post we draw up a guide on the intimate changes – and therefore also of the intimacy – of women in menopause .
If you want to know more , read carefully what we are about to explain: they are natural passages, because menopause is a natural event , but they must be lived with awareness and without apprehensions. And, above all, under the guidance of the gynecologist , to whom it is essential to rely periodically to check your health .
How the female genital system changes after age 50
Aging is a process that affects the whole organism and, as such, also the female genital system. The hormonal imbalances of menopause cause an external change , as regards:
- the thickness and size of the labia minora and labia majora , which are reduced
- the size of the clitoris , which decreases
- the flattening of the “Monte di Venere” (it is a deposit of adipose tissue), which becomes lower
Internally, however, the decreased production of estrogen and progesterone causes:
- reduced natural lubrication and consequent vaginal dryness ;
- changes in vaginal pH (more alkaline) with a consequent increased risk of infections and intimate discomfort such as itching and burning ;
- thinning of the vaginal walls : this is also a consequence of the decrease in estrogen production. Thinner, the vaginal wall becomes more fragile (also due to the reduced natural lubrication) and causes the dryness and intimate discomfort that we have mentioned. These are very common symptoms in menopausal women which, however, 1 time out of 2 can indicate the presence of a real pathological condition such as Vulvo-Vaginal Atrophy , a chronic and progressive condition for which early diagnosis by the gynecologist it is fundamental ;
- these factors can be a contributing cause of pain during intercourse ( dyspareunia ) , often a corollary of menopause that can create tension and embarrassment in the couple . We will see later how female intimacy changes after 50 ;
- blood loss , which is not the menstruation of the fertile age but the so-called phenomenon of ” spotting ” Whether it is bleeding due to the dancing cycle , stress , or diseases such as polyps , endometriosis or Vulvo Vaginal Atrophy , it is always a good idea to contact the gynecologist to ascertain its nature;
- hormonal changes and, in general, the aging of the genital system can cause relaxation of the tissues (already physiological): this is the case of the relaxation of the pelvic floor , which can lead to uterus prolapse . For both, the right “gymnastics” and specific physiotherapy courses can be decisive.
Even gentle disciplines such as yoga and pilates can help in managing these issues; - the relaxation of the pelvic floor , the prolapsed uterus or bladder , and hormonal changes can also cause urinary tract changes , which could affect its functionality and, in general, the quality of life of women. Incontinence may appear (effort such as carrying shopping bags or coughing may be enough) and increased urination frequency.
In the face of these disorders it is essential to contact the gynecologist immediately, without embarrassment or hesitation. Also because the risk of being gripped by shame , bysense of inadequacy and in the most serious cases slipping into depression is concrete; - menopause changes a woman’s intimacy and also her sexuality : the disorders we have talked about can all be causes of difficulties in fully living the relationship as a couple .
There is a lot that can be done to rediscover a happy intimacy but it is essential to do so by contacting (even as a couple, why not) the gynecologist .
If you are in a critical moment, read this article that tells you what to do to find love after 50 .
