Menopause - The unwanted gift that keeps on giving

Oh menopause, you’re like the unwanted gift that keeps on giving!

Menopause brings a slew of challenges like weight gain, bloating, hot flashes, and night sweats. However, its impact on your sex life can be particularly distressing. It's not just about missing your period; it's about what your period represents. And the same is true for your connection to your sexuality.

So many women I speak to admit to feeling “less desirable and attractive” as a result of these changes. Losing confidence, particularly sexual confidence during menopause is very common. Sexual confidence is a crucial aspect of feeling young and vibrant. Research shows that a healthy sex life can contribute to overall well-being, boosting self-esteem and happiness. But how do you do this when you are feeling so low?

I thought I would share some common stories…

“My partner wants sex all the time. I used to enjoy it too. I've been on antidepressants for 20 years instead of HRT during peri-menopause, and of course, my vagina is dry, itchy, and bleeds just being touched”

“I'm having a libido crisis!. It just “died” during postpartum depression 22 years ago. Any “giggy-giggy” down there just creates a host of problems that take weeks to recover from. It's so not worth it.”

And if you have done enough research you won't be surprised to learn that the main culprit for these changes is oestrogen. You see, your oestrogen levels continue to decline during menopause.

You may notice increased vaginal dryness, even when you're feeling excited and ready for intimacy! Try Lovers Lube. Vaginal dryness can lead to discomfort during sex, potentially diminishing your desire. Over time, this can make you feel less "in the mood" for intimate moments because it doesn’t feel as pleasurable anymore. Learn more about Happy Juice.

If things aren't hard enough Menopause can also cause:

Weight gain and bloating, which may lead you to hide your body instead of pulling out that sexy lingerie hiding in the cupboard. Check out The Aviiana Wellness Program to get access to more menopause-related information, ongoing support and more!
Vaginal infections like UTIs and thrush, shift your focus away from sex.
Sleep disturbances from night sweats and joint discomfort, resulting in constant fatigue, irritability, and 24/7 brain fog.
Mood swings, stress, anxiety, and depression, all of which are the EXACT opposite feelings that you need to feel hot and heavy.

Bloody heck it's NO wonder you’re not feeling turned on!

The lack of intimacy can lead to significant issues in your relationship. Many couples, even those in relationships for many years, struggle to discuss sex and menopause openly. You might feel confused or self-conscious about the changes you're experiencing and find it challenging to communicate them to your partner. Your partner, unaware of the changes in your oestrogen levels, may begin to think your lack of interest in intimacy is due to a lack of attraction. If you're single and dating, you might find that despite wanting to meet someone, your interest in sex has waned.

But despite feeling like Mother Nature is out to get you...

Here are our 7 Natural libido-boosting techniques to help you get your spark back:

Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support hormonal balance and overall health, which can help improve libido. Learn more about The Aviiana Wellness Program
Communication: Talk openly with your partner about any changes you're experiencing and how you both can adapt to maintain a satisfying sexual relationship.
Self-Exploration: Take time to explore your body and discover what feels good to you now. Menopause can bring changes in arousal and response, so it's important to rediscover what works for you.
Stress Management: High-stress levels can negatively affect libido. Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can help improve libido during menopause.
Adequate Sleep: Poor sleep can contribute to low libido. Prioritise getting enough sleep and practice good sleep hygiene to improve overall health and potentially enhance libido.
Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can improve blood flow, boost energy levels, and promote overall well-being, which can positively impact libido.
Natural Supplements: Some natural supplements have been suggested to boost libido in menopausal women. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements to ensure they are safe for you. Here are the most effective:

Saffron, known as "red gold" for its high cost, offers more than just culinary value. Clinical trials suggest that saffron can reduce sex-related pain in as little as four weeks. Participants also reported increased arousal and lubrication, as well as improvements in low mood, including hormonal depression. Try Re-glow Perimenopause Relief today.

Sage, a herb with ancient roots dating back to ancient Egypt, has been used for both culinary and healing purposes for thousands of years. It holds significance in various spiritual practices, particularly in Native American cultures, where it is burned to cleanse spaces. Modern science also recognizes its benefits, with clinical trials showing that sage can reduce night sweats by 64% and improve sleep quality. This means no more getting up in the middle of the night to change your nightie or pushing your partner away every time they roll over for a cuddle.

Rhubarb Extract - To Manage Mood Swings & Hot Flashes. Not all rhubarb extracts are created equal. Menofelis™ Siberian Rhubarb Extract is a special extract clinically proven to mimic the effects of oestrogen in the body naturally. Clinical trials have shown that this extract can lead to an 83% reduction in night sweats and an 85% improvement in mood. Managing mood swings can make it much easier to feel “in the mood” for intimacy!

Let's finish off by understanding the importance of a positive mindset. Staying positive and accepting that every woman is going to go through Menopause is essential.

Don't let menopause hold you back. A positive mindset can go a long way in helping you feel more in control and more confident in your body & sexuality. There are ways to feel passionate, alive, AND SENSUAL so you don't feel like you are losing yourself.

Love Mary xx