Rediscover your orgasm - navigating sexual pleasure during perimenopause

During perimenopause, it's not unusual to experience changes in your sexual health, particularly when it comes to orgasms. You may notice they take longer to achieve or feel less intense than before. These shifts are often tied to hormonal fluctuations, but that doesn't mean your sexual pleasure has to diminish. By learning how to navigate the changes in your body, you can preserve - and even enhance - your sexual satisfaction during this stage of life.

The role of hormones

During perimenopause, oestrogen and progesterone levels start to decline, and testosterone may also drop. These hormonal shifts can have a direct impact on your libido, vaginal lubrication, and overall sexual response. With lower oestrogen levels, vaginal dryness becomes more common, which can make sex uncomfortable or less pleasurable. Additionally, changes in blood flow to the genital area might reduce sensitivity, making it harder to achieve orgasm.

However, it’s important to note that while hormones play a role, they don’t define your ability to experience pleasure. Many women find that their bodies adapt over time, and with a few adjustments, their sexual experience can still be fulfilling.

The impact on desire

Lower hormone levels can lead to a decreased libido, but desire isn’t purely physical - it’s also mental and emotional. The stress of juggling life changes, work, relationships, and perimenopausal symptoms like hot flashes or mood swings can dampen sexual interest. Add to that societal pressures about aging, and many women feel their desire wane during this stage of life.

But desire can be rekindled. Open communication with your partner, prioritising self-care, and exploring new ways to connect physically can make a big difference. Orgasm isn’t just about stimulation; it’s about feeling relaxed, emotionally connected, and confident in your body.

Changes in orgasmic intensity

One common complaint during perimenopause is that orgasms feel less intense than they used to. This could be due to the decrease in pelvic floor muscle tone, which can make contractions during orgasm weaker. Strengthening these muscles through pelvic floor exercises (like Kegels) can help improve the intensity of orgasms. Also, regular sexual activity can maintain blood flow to the genitals, keeping those tissues more responsive.

Rediscovering sexual pleasure

While perimenopause might present challenges to your sexual health, it’s also a great time to explore new avenues of pleasure. Whether it’s incorporating lubricants to combat vaginal dryness, experimenting with new positions, or using toys to enhance sensation, there are plenty of options to keep your sex life vibrant.

For example, NeverNot Silicone-Based Lubricant is an excellent option if you’re looking for a long-lasting, silky-smooth feel during intimate moments. Its silicone-based formula is perfect for women experiencing dryness due to perimenopause, ensuring comfort without the need for frequent reapplication. On the other hand, if you prefer a more natural, easy-to-clean formula, the NeverNot Water-Based Lubricant provides a hydrating, non-sticky experience that feels more like your body’s own natural lubrication.

Both options are available at February Bloom, and they can make a world of difference in enhancing your sexual comfort and pleasure.

Additionally, focusing on non-penetrative activities - such as massage, oral sex, or sensual touch - can create a deeper connection with your partner and increase your comfort levels. Sometimes, letting go of performance anxiety and focusing on the journey, rather than just the orgasm, can lead to more satisfying sexual encounters.

When to seek help

If perimenopausal changes are severely impacting your ability to enjoy sex, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider. Issues like pain during intercourse, extreme dryness, or a complete lack of libido may be signs that medical intervention, such as hormone therapy or other treatments, could help.

Openly discussing your symptoms with a doctor can help you identify solutions, whether through lifestyle changes, prescription treatments, or supplements. Products designed to enhance sexual health during perimenopause, such as those offered by February Bloom, can also provide support, including natural supplements and lubricants.

Embracing change

Perimenopause may change how you experience orgasms, but it doesn’t have to diminish your sexual satisfaction. By understanding what’s happening in your body, making adjustments to your routine, and keeping an open mind, you can continue to enjoy a fulfilling sex life. Remember that this stage is just one part of your journey, and with the right approach, your sexual wellness can remain a source of joy and empowerment.