Sexual health encompasses the absence of sexual disease (typically sexually transmitted diseases), the health of sexual anatomy ( the ‘working’ bits) and the confidence and opportunity to express sexuality, own and act on sexual feelings whether alone or with other/s.
Women’s sexuality has often been viewed through a male lens – sexualised imagery and behaviour designed to appeal to men which carries over into what both men and women expect of women. This is exemplified in visual porn.
It is time for women to connect with their own version of authentic sexuality – to legitimise how they feel, what pleasures them. To close the shame gap.
This needs courage and we have lots to learn from our millennial sisters who have much less inhibition!
When it comes to perimenopause and menopause, things change. Sexual desire shifts, penetrative sex can become painful due to thinning of vaginal tissues, dryness and lack of natural lubrication. Generally, arousal and orgasm still work, they may just need different pathways to get there.
It is more important than ever to work out how sex works for you personally and not just for your wellbeing but also your physical health. Neglecting your vagina leads to thinning and pain leading to a vicious circle.
Understanding what is happening to your body and getting the right treatment (such as hormone treatment to keep you vagina healthy) goes a long way to keeping your sex life alive.
Fortunately, there are many new products and services created by women for women including sex toys, lubricants and information.
