Sex & The Mature Woman
Good sex is a wonderful thing and the enjoyment of it can last a lifetime. However, physical changes after 60 can make a difference. Baby Boomers need to be aware.
Avoiding Discomfort
Burning, itching, pain – enjoyable sexual activity can be hampered or even avoided because of these problems. They can seriously affect not only a woman’s pleasure but also her relationship with her husband or lover. There are solutions however.
As we age the walls of the vagina become thinner and a bit more fragile. Additionally the natural lubrication associated with arousal diminishes and takes longer to develop.
These are strategies for restoring comfort.
1. Lubricants
These colorless, odorless, tasteless gels supplement the body’s own juices. They are usually applied just before or during sex. Check the drug store shelves for a variety of inexpensive choices.
2. Vaginal Ring
A flexible ring about 3″ in diameter is inserted up in the vagina, a move similar to inserting a diaphragm. It can’t be felt once inserted and lasts three months or more. The ring contains low dosage estrogen which is slowly released locally within the vagina. Many gyn’s believe it quite safe because the estrogen does not pass through the whole body in the way that a pill does. It can be very effective in restoring lubrication and strengthening the walls of the vagina but it does not affect hot flashes or night sweats. A physician’s advice and prescription are necessary.
3. Vaginal Cream and Tablets
These are methods to insert low dosage estrogen in the vagina. They work similarly to the vaginal ring. They are also gradually absorbed. However, they need to be inserted more frequently. A periodic change from a ring to tablets or cream or the other way around is sometimes useful during the course of time.
4. Topical Creams and Patches
Low dosage estrogen is absorbed through the skin with these methods. However, they can be inconvenient. Studies on safety are incomplete at this point. It’s important that other members of the family not come in contact with the creams or the patch.
5. Pills
Taking estrogen in this form has been effective for relieving vaginal pain and dryness, as well as diminishing night sweats and hot flashes. Dosages are now much lower than originally prescribed. However, the controversy over safety has continued for a number of years. It caused large numbers of women to stop taking estrogen in pill form. While some women do find them indispensible, a number of factors need to be evaluated by a physician.
Dianne Morris
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