Alright, gentlemen (and supportive partners), let’s get to the good stuff. Having ED doesn’t mean your sex life is over. Far from it! Here are some tips to help you thrive:

Talk About It:

Communication is crucial. Talk to your partner and a doctor. It might be awkward at first, but it’s the first step to finding a solution. Emphasise your desire to enjoy intimacy for years to come and keep a positive mindset.

Lifestyle Changes:

The little things make a big difference. Exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, quit smoking, and reduce alcohol consumption. These changes can improve your overall health and your ED.

Medication:

There are effective medications available. Consult your doctor to find the best option for you. Also, check if any regular medications you take might affect your sexual function and ask about alternatives.

Sex Therapy:

ED can have psychological roots. Counselling or therapy can help address underlying issues like stress, anxiety, or depression. Remember the first rule of Fight Club…“Don’t talk about Fight Club”.  The more you obsess over your performance, the harder it becomes to relax and enjoy sex.

Explore Alternatives:

Intimacy isn’t just about intercourse. Sex includes all sexual activities – manual, oral and penile acts. Explore other ways to connect with your partner. Go back to the basics and focus on kissing, hugging and touching. There’s a lot of fun to have when you stop making intercourse the end goal. Contact me today for more information on reviving intimacy and sexual acts that will work in your favour.

Positive Mindset Shift

Let’s reframe menopause as a time of sexual liberation! No more worrying about unwanted pregnancies or timing around your menstrual cycle. It’s your time to explore and show the world your authentic self, living life on your terms. And for partners out there, emotionally supporting your loved one through these changes will work wonders for your sexual relationship.

Cultivating Confidence

Confidence is key when it comes to embracing sex and intimacy after 50 or during menopause. 

First, let’s engage in daily positive sexual self-talk. This involves promoting a mindset to embrace your sexuality as a natural and beautiful aspect of who you are, regardless of age or circumstance. Performed naked in front of the mirror, remind yourself daily of your inherent worthiness of pleasure and intimacy. 

Next, write a sexual statement. A brief declaration of who you are as a sexual being, what you deserve, and what you’re willing to give and receive. Read it out loud to yourself at least three times a day. Trust me, it works wonders for reinforcing your confidence and self-worth.

Reconnecting Through Self-Pleasure

Self-pleasure is fundamental to rediscovering sex and intimacy after 50 or during menopause. Take time to reconnect with your body, exploring what feels good and how it responds to different sensations. This isn’t just about physical pleasure. It’s about reclaiming ownership of your body and desires and empowering you to communicate your needs and preferences with confidence to a partner.

Navigating Intimate Relationships

Dating and finding intimate partners after 50 or during menopause can be intimidating, but confidence and assertiveness are attractive qualities at any age. Most partners appreciate someone who can articulate their needs because they want to cherish you sexually. By speaking up about your desires and boundaries in the bedroom, you can foster open communication and prioritise your pleasure.

Embracing Sex Toys

Sex toys aren’t just for the younger crowd. They can be valuable tools for enhancing pleasure and intimacy after 50 or during menopause, especially if you’re navigating changes in libido or experiencing physical limitations. From vibrators to massage oils, there’s a wide range of options tailored to your needs and preferences. Don’t be afraid to explore and experiment until you find what works best for you.

Not all women experience the same symptoms or severity of symptoms which makes your transition and treatment individual. Given that sexuality is individual, your sexual health and functioning will be affected differently.

Psychological symptoms

• Mood swings
• Anger
• Low libido/difficulty reaching orgasm
• Identity crisis “feeling old”
• Fogginess

These symptoms negatively impact overall confidence and self-image, sexual desire and relationship connection.

Physical/somatic symptoms

• Pelvic floor weakness
• Incontinence
• Prolapse
• Vaginal dryness
• Vagina and vulva tissue thinning and loss of fatty tissue
• Vaginal canal shortening

• Hot flushes
• Night sweats
• Sleeping disorders
• Muscle and joint pain
• Sore breasts 
• Abdominal weight gain

These symptoms negatively impact body image, overall sense of wellbeing, and sexual functioning such as lubrication causing sexual pain and discomfort.