By KBC Associate 
There’s no denying it: hormonal shifts play a starring role in the changes you’ll notice during menopause. Declining estrogen levels can reduce libido and make arousal harder to reach, and as Dr. Read points out, “More than a third of women in menopause report having sexual difficulties, from lack of interest in sex to trouble having an orgasm.”
Painful sex is often rooted in vaginal atrophy. “It’s the spot on the entrance to the vagina that gets significantly thin and painful and where a lot of pain with penetration comes from,” she notes. But don’t despair—there are solutions. Vaginal moisturizers and suppositories can help ease dryness. And if you’re ready for a more targeted approach, Dr. Read recommends estrogen cream for both vaginal and clitoral atrophy.
These tools aren’t about ‘fixing’ menopause, they’re about making your body feel more like yours again. Empowerment in the bedroom starts with giving yourself permission to seek comfort and pleasure, not push through pain.
Get Creative with Techniques and Toys
This isn’t just about surviving the changes, it’s about thriving. When penetration becomes uncomfortable or unpredictable, it’s time to expand your menu. As Dr. Read advises, “Your pelvic floor muscles are like every other muscle in your body—they need to be exercised and toned, or they will start to atrophy over time.”
Pelvic floor issues aren’t just an inconvenience. “One in four women is affected by pelvic floor problems that hinder her overall wellness and sexual satisfaction.” Fortunately, there’s a simple (and free) solution: Kegels. “They’re the Swiss army knife of your sexual pleasure—they’re free, easy to do, and take less than two minutes a day,” Dr. Read says.
Beyond exercises, this is the perfect moment to explore toys, positions, and techniques that bring more comfort and pleasure. Positions that reduce pressure on the pelvic area, silicone-based lubricants, and vibrating toys designed for external stimulation can all help revamp your sex life during menopause into something downright delicious.