Physical changes after menopause
Your body goes through many physical changes during menopause, many of which can have an impact on sexual intercourse. These changes are primarily due to shifting hormone levels, especially a decrease in the amount of estrogen your ovaries produce.
Some of the physical changes you might experience with menopause include:
- Gradual weight gain
- Thinning hair
- Vulvovaginal atrophy that results in dryness, itching, and pain
- Frequent urination and increased levels of urinary tract infections
- Incontinence
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Sleep problems like insomnia
Some or all of these uncomfortable symptoms might negatively influence your sex drive and affect how desireable or pleasurable sex is to you. You might even experience pain or discomfort during sex. In addition to the physical changes, many women experience mood swings and emotional changes before, during, and after menopause.