If you’re going through menopause, painful sex can be an issue. Using a little extra lubricant can help intensify sensations for both partners.
This is especially important if one partner has hip problems. Educating partners about the symptoms of menopause can be really helpful, too. Then they can learn how to work around them.
Hip Buster
Women who are nearing menopause often experience a drop in their libido. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it does mean that couples might need to rework the way they have sex. The good news is that there are lots of ways to find new positions that will work for you after you enter menopause.
One of the best sex positions for post-menopausal women is the cowgirl or reverse cowgirl position. This is a great position for a woman on top, because it allows her to control the depth of penetration and intensity of G-spot stimulation. It is also a great position for women who suffer from hip pain, as it does not require much movement or extension of the legs.
Another great position is the kneeler. This is a great position for partners who have hip problems, as it allows them to stay in the same position. It can also be used for foreplay, and it is an excellent position if you’re a fan of friction during sex.
If you’re a woman who is approaching menopause, it’s important to talk to your partner about how you want to continue to have sex. It’s normal for your desire to change as you reach menopause, and you may want to try some new positions or even masturbation if you are having trouble getting orgasms.
Side-by-Side
While menopausal symptoms can disrupt the bedroom, they don’t have to – and should not – ruin your sexual life. In fact, they can be a great opportunity to experiment with new sex positions that make both partners feel good.
It’s also a time to try sexual enhancement products like dildos and lubricants, which can help boost pleasure and create arousal in both men and women, regardless of age. And if you haven’t tried them yet, don’t be afraid to try penetrative sex again – the pelvic angle change of menopause can actually make penetration easier and more enjoyable, especially if used in combination with a vibrator.
A study found that a large majority of menopausal women who use vibrators report greater satisfaction with sexual activity than those who don’t. This could be because the pelvic angle change can help to reduce pain deep in the vagina near the cervix.
As the hips shift, other areas become more accessible for penetration – and this is where standing angles like the ballet dancer position or the clasp sex position come in. This style of sex is perfect for those with hip trouble or who have had hip-replacement surgery, as it allows them to stay seated while the giving partner straddles their lap. This sex position is also great for stimulating G-spots and foreplay and leaves plenty of room for hands to explore other erogenous zones.
Cutlery Drawer
Many women say that pain during sex increases during menopause, and that they don’t feel as desirable. This is due to the drop in estrogen levels, which causes vaginal tissue to dry out and thin. Luckily, there are a number of products available to help you find more pleasure during intercourse — including personal lubes that add sensations like cool/tingling or warm and flavored lubes.
It’s also a good idea to talk to your partner about their feelings and any changes in your sexual desire during menopause. “It’s important to communicate with your partner, so they know what to expect and can be a support system if you are struggling,” says Dr DeNoble. In addition to talking to your partner, sex on a regular basis (with a partner or by masturbation) can be helpful for maintaining sexual desire and helping the vaginal tissues stay healthy.
There are plenty of things to love about sex in middle age, including not having to worry about pregnancy and the end of your reproductive years. So don’t be afraid to try new toys or positions that feel good and stir up excitement — especially if you are using the right lube for your specific needs. And remember, no matter what sexy position you are in, it is always important to use protection, too.
Spooning
If you and your partner want to up the intensity but not have to get on your hands, try the spooning position. It’s an easy modification of a classic favorite and one that can be especially satisfying for seasoned partners during menopause. It’s similar to doggy but with the “big spoon” (usually the man) in a prone position so he can slide his penis into the “little spoon” from behind. This position also gives solid access to the clitoris for penetrative sex.
As an added bonus, the spooning position is a great variation on the Missionary, a favorite for many couples thanks to its face-to-face intimacy and kissing opportunities. It’s also a good option for anyone who has trouble reaching the anal area from other positions, like the cowgirl or reverse cowgirl sex positions, according to Schwartz.
During menopause, it’s important to keep trying new things in the bedroom, from new toys to new sex positions. Just remember to experiment safely and with plenty of lube to avoid any painful surprises. Ultimately, there’s no right or wrong way to experience sex during menopause — it’s all about what feels good for you and your partner. As long as you continue to listen to your body and explore what it needs, menopause can be an amazing time for sex.
