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• Practice pelvic floor exercises. These can increase blood flow to the vagina and strengthen the muscles involved in orgasm.

• Avoid irritating products. Bubble bath and strong soaps might cause irritation. Don’t douche. If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, allergy and cold medicines may add to the problem.

Treatments

Discuss your symptoms and personal health issues with your doctor to decide whether one or more treatment options are right for you.

If vaginal dryness is an issue:

• Using an over-the-counter, water-based vaginal lubricant like K-Y Jelly or Astroglide when you have sex can lessen discomfort.

An over-the-counter vaginal moisturizer like Replens can help put moisture back in vaginal tissues. You may need to use it every few days.

• Prescription medicines that are put into a woman’s vagina may increase moisture and sensation. These include estrogen creams, tablets, or rings. If you have severe vaginal dryness, the most effective treatment may be menopausal hormone therapy.

When Sexual Interest Is A Problem

• Treating vaginal dryness may help. Talking with your partner or making lifestyle changes also may help.

• You may wonder about Viagra. This medication has helped men with erection problems, but it has not proven effective in increasing women’s sexual interest.

• Some women try products like pills or creams that contain the male hormone testosterone or similar products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved these products for treating reduced female sex drive because there is not enough research proving them safe and effective.

• The FDA has approved menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) for symptoms like hot flashes, but research has not proven that MHT increases sex drive.

Why You Should Talk To Your Partner

Talking with your partner about your sexual changes can be very helpful. Some possible topics to discuss include:

• What feels good and what doesn’t

• Times that you may feel more relaxed

• Which positions are more comfortable

• Whether you need more time to get aroused than you used to

• Concerns you have about the way your appearance may be changing

• Ways to enjoy physical connection other than intercourse, like massage

Talking with your partner can strengthen your sexual relationship and your overall connection. If you need help, consider meeting with a therapist or sex counselor for individual or couples therapy.

How To Improve Sex After Menopause  was originally published on blackdoctor.org

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