In no way must the midlife years mean a death sentence for sexual desire and fulfillment. You can enjoy sex while your body is changing physically without pain and discomfort.

Declining Hormone Levels

Declining hormone levels are responsible for many physical changes within menopausal women. A decrease in libido and sexual satisfaction is the most common symptom reported. Without estrogen, the vagina is less well lubricated and the vaginal lining thins. Lower estrogen levels also decrease the blood supply to the vagina and the surrounding nerves making the area much drier. These symptoms can cause painful intercourse.

Vaginal dryness can be treated with massage oil which is much more sensuous than lubricants. I recommend a water-soluble lubricant only when using condoms. Probe, K-Y, Astroglide, or Silk are good products to use in this instance.

When the vaginal lining thins it retracts and losses it's elasticity. If you don't have intercourse very often it can be painful when you do. I recommend you either have intercourse more frequently or schedule time to pleasure yourself. Use a dildo with plenty of lubricant and penetrate the vagina using slow in and out movements. This will help to maintain the elasticity and partner sex will become more enjoyable.

To minimize any pain you may be experiencing use sexual positions that allow you to control the depth of penetration. A warm bath prior to intercourse can assist in relaxing you. And again, use plenty of lubricant to help reduce pain caused by friction.

While physical changes associated with menopause may contribute to a decline in sexual activity it is difficult to say that they are the only factors that may be affecting it.

Relationships and Positive Attitude

Relationship and psychological status play an important role in both sex drive and sexual satisfaction. Your attitude will be the most important determinant of how well you and your partner cope. At this point in life, the brain remains the most important sex organ.

Having a healthy, positive attitude goes a long way in sustaining sexual satisfaction. Allow yourself to be open to your partner helping you to get into the mood. It's important to take your time with lots of foreplay to build your mood and pleasure. Enhance stimulation through the use of erotic material (videos or books). Mutual masturbation and changes in your sexual routine can all help in keeping the anticipation of sex exciting.

You can practice non-coital behaviors (physically stimulating activities that does not include intercourse). Sensual massage promotes comfort, relaxation and intimacy for couples without having to have a sexual goal. Sensual touching can also increase communication between you and your partner.

Healthy Lifestyle

Living a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, plenty of sleep and eating a balanced diet is important. It can boost confidence and improve sexual desire. For a lot of women these changes are still not enough for them to enjoy sex. Other options are Homeopathic and Herbal Remedies. You might want to work with someone who is knowledgeable in these fields to help you find what works best for you.

When You Need a Little More Help

Women who have taken Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) have had greater sexual activity. HRT has a positive benefit on treating menopausal symptoms in the short term. All medical treatments have advantages and disadvantages and should be discussed with you health care provider.

Your attitude is a key component for enjoying a satisfying sex life during menopause. If you enjoyed a satisfying sex life before menopause, you have every reason to believe it will continue. Most temporary symptoms that occur can be treated with natural methods. Sound knowledge of the aging process, acceptance of yourself and an understanding attitude toward your partner will enable you to learn new, creative ways of finding sexual pleasure during this time of change in your life.