Vaginal atrophy, also called atrophic vaginitis, can occur anytime there is a drop of estrogen in your body, including during menopause. Experts say that regular sexual activity can help to prevent the symptoms of this condition, which are known as “genitourinary symptoms of menopause” or GSM.

This condition can cause a lot of vaginal discomforts, as well as issues with your bladder. The Symptoms are:

• Vaginal burning
• Vaginal dryness
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Frequent urinary tract infections
• Burning with urination
• Frequent need to urinate
• Urgent need to urinate
• Loss of bladder control
• Bleeding during or after sex
• Uncomfortable or painful sex
• Shortened vaginal canal

You are more likely to develop this condition if you are not sexually active. Smoking is another risk factor for getting GSM in menopause. You are also more likely to get it if you have never given birth vaginally.

Even if you don’t have a sexual partner, you can use a vibrator to help prevent or treat vaginal atrophy. Make sure to use plenty of lubricant during playtime. There are also products called vaginal moisturizers that you can use to keep your vagina moist in general to be comfortable.

How to Stimulate a Woman During Menopause?

Sex does not end once you hit menopause. Many people have fulfilling sex lives in the menopausal phase of life.

How can you enjoy sex more during menopause?

Follow these tips:

• Use plenty of lube to help with sexual discomfort due to vaginal dryness.
  
• If you’re not getting in the mood, try stimulation to get yourself there. Use fingers or a vibrator. If you’re with a partner, oral sex can get your motor going.
  
• Include plenty of foreplay to give yourself plenty of time to get aroused. Foreplay ideas include a massage, watching porn, dirty talk, read erotic stories, or try our list of sex positions, and taking a relaxing bath.
  
• Stay cool during sex with a fan or air conditioning. You can even use some ice cubes in your sexual playtime.
  
• Have sex frequently – either with a partner or with yourself – to keep your vagina in great shape and feeling its best.
  
• If you experience pain during sex, try different positions until you find one that works for you. Try this list of vibrators for older women.
  
• If penetration is painful, try different materials and shapes of dildos. You might enjoy a smoother glass dildo or a specifically shaped toy.
  
• Check with your doctor to see if any medications you’re taking have an effect on your libido.
  
• If you continually have trouble orgasming, low libido, or pain during sex and you find it distressing, talk to your OB-GYN. They may be able to recommend a prescription or over-the-counter treatment to improve your symptoms and help you have a more pleasurable and active sex life in menopause.
  
• Even though you don’t need to use condoms to prevent pregnancy, you should still use safer sex barriers to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Get tested regularly, especially if you have multiple sexual partners.
  
• If penetration isn’t working for you, try other activities like oral sex, sex toys, massage, or even cuddling. There are many ways to have sexual intimacy. Sex can be satisfying even if you don’t orgasm every single time.

Read More:

What if my partner wants rough sex?

The Health benefits of Sex

Redefining Six Life-Long Benefits of Sexual Health for Individuals

Sex Positions to Try