From Sizzle to Simmer: Stoking the Embers and Fanning the Flames to the Afterglow in Midlife
… let’s talk about your privates. We know that sex is important. The question is: Do you still want it? Can you still have it? Can you get there? (BUCK! Let’s talk about your privates)
At Buck the Menopause, we believe that open dialogue is key to empowering women and shattering misconceptions. So, let's shine a light on what the characters in BUCK!, and countless others might be experiencing. It’s about to get real.
Hold onto your panties, ladies! We're diving headfirst into the world of vulvovaginal health and wellbeing. Turns out, those changes "down there" aren't just in your mind, it goes with the territory of ageing and menopause.
But fear not, discomfort and a dwindling libido doesn't mean your sex life has to fizzle out. According to a Harvard Medical School study, sexual health is an integral part of overall well-being, especially during midlife and beyond. So how to deal with those intimacy challenges?
BUCK’s 5 Steps to the afterglow:
1. Knowledge is Power: Learn about the menopausal changes to your lady bits – dryness, less elasticity, loss of sensation, you name it. Why? Understanding what's happening is the first step to finding solutions that work for you.
2. Lube is Your Lover: Think of it as a magic potion (a nod to Chapter 12. The Vanity Project). Water-based, silicone-based, there's a lube for every need. No shame in reaching for a little help!
3. Foreplay is the New Main Course: Slow down, savour the moment. Think massages, intimate conversations, relearning each other's bodies ... It's all about creating the perfect mood, at the right pace, and enjoying the gentle undulations.
4. Maybe Spice Things Up: Experiment with positions, toys, or even a little role-playing (wink, wink). Let your imagination run wild, yet be safe – there are no rules after 50!
5. Own Your Sensuality: Body confidence is the sexiest accessory. Embrace your changing body, your new felt desires, and keep enjoying the afterglow.
You deserve to feel amazing, no matter your age!
In the book, BUCK! Tamsin's and Fiona's journeys shed light on often-ignored realities, irrespective of menopausal stage. And speaking of embracing change, a recent Guardian article echoes this point, highlighting the need for open conversation. It's a great reminder that we're not alone in this journey.
Join our conversation, our community, share your experiences, and reclaim your narrative. As the wise Mae West once said, "Those who are easily shocked should be shocked more often."
BUCK offers a supportive space for open dialogue and empowered action. So let's buck the menopause stigma and reclaim our pleasure, one flash at a time!
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider for personalised guidance.