Menopause signals the end of a woman’s reproductive capabilities and is marked by the absence of a menstrual cycle for a full 12 months. Menopause is a natural process but can be accompanied by several unwanted symptoms, such as changes in sexual health. Dr. Vonne Jones, the board-certified physician at Total Women's Care in Houston, TX, treats menopause symptoms, including those that affect sexual health.

Symptoms of Menopause

One significant change that occurs with menopause is a decline in estrogen and other reproductive hormones. Declining hormone levels can lead to a wide range of symptoms, such as irregular periods until menstruation eventually stops altogether. Other common symptoms of menopause include:  

• Weight gain
• Slower metabolism 
• Difficulty sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating
• Headaches or migraines 
• Hot flashes and night sweats 
• Loss of fullness in the breasts
• Irritability, depression, and other changes in mood
• Diminished sex drive 
• Vaginal dryness
• Incontinence 
• Thinning hair
• Fatigue 
• Dry skin 

Leading up to menopause, women go through a transitional period referred to as perimenopause. This can occur a few years before menopause and is often marked by irregular periods. Many of the same symptoms that accompany menopause are also experienced during perimenopause, such as mood changes, difficulty sleeping, and vaginal dryness. 

Menopause and Sexual Health

Many of the symptoms of menopause can impact sexual health for women. Declining hormone levels often lead to a lower sex drive, which might result in less interest in sex. Additionally, vaginal dryness can cause some discomfort during sex. Women who experience insomnia or difficulty sleeping might also find that they just don’t have the energy for sex. 

All of these factors can result in sex becoming a frustrating experience for women who are in menopause or perimenopause. Changes in sexual health can also have an impact on relationships. Fortunately, some treatments address symptoms such as vaginal dryness and diminished sex drive, which can improve sexual health. The doctor will recommend specific treatments based on your symptoms and needs.

Treatments for Menopause 

Several treatment options are available to help manage the symptoms of menopause. Some treatments the experienced physician at our office in Houston, TX, might recommend for menopause include topical lubricants for vaginal dryness and hormone replacement therapy, which can improve libido and sexual drive. Other components of menopause treatment could include medications to balance mood, dietary changes, exercising regularly, and getting enough rest. 

If menopause is affecting your sexual health, we can help. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Jones to learn more about treating the symptoms of menopause by calling Total Women's Care in Houston, TX, at (346) 320-3188.