It is sexual health week here in the UK.
Sex remains a bit of a taboo and so it’s not something that patients ask me about directly.
It is something I always explore as it can be a hugely important part of life that suffers during peri and menopause.
Common barriers to enjoyable sex include
Vulval and vaginal dryness
Pelvic pain during or after sex
Vulval pain and irritation during and after sex
Vulval skin disorders such as lichen planus
Perineal scars from childbirth
Clitoral sensitivity changes/pain/dryness
Recurrent Cystitis or UTI after sex
Recurrent vaginal infections such as thrush or BV
Bleeding after sex *always get this checked*
Irregular and unpredictable periods
Pelvic floor weakness impacting enjoyment & ability to climax
lack of time
Lack of energy
Change in body and sensuality
Bloating
Change in self esteem
Change in bedtime routine to adjust for hot-flushes/sweats/insomnia
Prioritising good sleep over sex
Anxiety or worry reducing enjoyment and climax
Fear of pain/cystitis
Loss of desire to have sex
Loss of intimacy with partner
Changes in partner and life circumstances
If sex is important to you and you are struggling with any of these issues (or any others) then please don’t be fearful or ashamed of discussing this with your doctor.
There are many things that can help such as:
⭐️Vaginal moisturisers
⭐️Vaginal oestrogen
⭐️Preventative or “self start” antibiotics and thrush treatments
⭐️Pelvic physiotherapy
⭐️Dilators
⭐️Vibrators/sex toys
⭐️Talking therapy
⭐️Lifestyle changes
⭐️HRT - particularly TESTOSTERONE
Consider booking in via link in bio to discuss Difficulties you may be having and the specific options available to you.