Perimenopause and menopause can cause a loss of libido but there are some things you can do to get it back on track.

One of the more common symptoms women experience during perimenopause and menopause is lack of libido. It is also quite common to experience vaginal dryness, discomfort during intercourse or a reduced sex drive. These can be upsetting things to go through and difficult to talk about but they’re very normal and you’re not alone. Studies have shown that approximately 50% of women experience some change or loss of sexual desire during this time of life.

There are a number of reasons that this happens but the main two are hormonal and lifestyle factors.

During perimenopause and menopause, the levels of oestrogen and testosterone in the body change. Oestrogen and testosterone, together with progesterone are all produced by our ovaries and are key players in a woman’s libido. When the levels fall women can find that they’re not as easily aroused, may be less sensitive to touch and can experience physical changes like vaginal dryness and the thinning of the vaginal wall.

Around this time in life there may also be things happening at home that are causing stress, worry and exhaustion. You may have teenage children, elderly parents or a pressurised job that are taking all your attention. That, combined with the other symptoms of menopause like hot flushes, change in body shape, irregular or heavy periods and difficulty sleeping aren’t necessarily going to leave you feeling particularly sexy!

Talking to your doctor about what options – medical or non-medical – are most suitable for you during this time is advisable. There are also some simple approaches that you can take to support yourself during this time.

Diet
Reducing the amount of sugar, saturated fats and processed foods you eat may not affect your libido directly, but it will have an impact on your overall health, energy levels and body. Making sure that you’re getting enough good protein and Omega-3 fatty acids is good for physical and mental health. Omega 3 DHA contributes to maintenance of normal brain and heart function.

Lubrication
If your issue is with vaginal dryness, you can try a natural lubricant that is pH balanced and organic and supplement with biotin which helps maintain normal mucous membranes.

Communication
It’s essential to open up to your partner and let them know what’s going on. Don’t hide what’s happening and have an open conversation. They may be feeling rejected and knowing that it’s a hormonal change will help you both to understand your symptoms.

Supplements
Cleanmarine MenoMin has been formulated specifically to give extra nutritional support for perimenopausal and menopausal women. It is rich in Omega-3 with Phospholipids, Vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12 and D3, as well as Rosemary Extract, Soy Isoflavones, Folate and Biotin. It has Vitamin B6 to help regulate hormonal activity, biotin to help maintain normal mucous membranes, as well as Vitamin B2 to reduce tiredness and fatigue and Vitamin D to help maintain healthy normal bones.