Canadian Living

Let's Talk About Intimacy

GET YOUR MOJO BACK DURING MENOPAUSE

-

The hormonal shifts that occur during menopause are responsibl­e for more than just hot flashes and mood swings. They signify a loss of estrogen and testostero­ne which can lead to changes in a woman’s body and sexual health related issues. For example, women may notice that they’re not as easily aroused, leading to less interest in sex. According to the Bonafide® State of Menopause Survey 2021, 53% of women surveyed engaged in sexual activity with a partner(s) less often after menopause. It’s a common issue, but women often feel embarrasse­d or ashamed discussing these topics with their partner or doctor.

During menopause and post menopause, the body’s production of estrogen decreases, which also influences collagen’s ability to provide support for the pelvis. The tissue in the vaginal area and the bladder region loses tone and elasticity, which can decrease the body’s ability to keep things functionin­g as they once did. Women with vaginal laxity can be uncomforta­ble with vaginal appearance or may experience reduced sensation and pain during sexual activity. Beyond the physical symptoms, this can have a significan­t impact on one’s emotional health and relationsh­ips.

“Oftentimes, when we stop having sex, we also stop being physically close and affectiona­te,” says Dr. Jess O’reilly, a Torontobas­ed Sexologist who holds a PHD in Human Sexuality. “This occurs because many couples only express physical affection as a means of initiating sex. A lack of intimacy can also have a major impact on one’s confidence and self-esteem.”

What many women don’t know is there are options other than hormone replacemen­t therapy, lubricant, and abstinence. Silk’n, a global leader in home-use medical aesthetic devices for over a decade, has recently launched Tightra, a device that is clinically proven to treat the symptoms of menopause, tighten the pelvic floor, improve sexual function, and increase sexual sensation.

Tightra is a safe, painless, and effective intimate wellness solution for intimate health-related issues. Cleared by Health Canada, Tightra is the first and only home-use device that utilizes Radio Frequency Energy, a medically proven technology that increases blood flow and boosts elastin and collagen production in weakened pelvic floor muscles. Tightra also stimulates the cells, enhancing natural lubricatio­n, increasing sensation, and improving external appearance.

92% of the women who participat­ed in Tightra clinical trials experience­d reduced feminine itching, burning, and pain, and 89% experience­d improvemen­t in sexual function. Participan­ts used the Tightra three times a week for 20-minute sessions for a period of four weeks.

O’reilly stresses that communicat­ion is an essential component when navigating changes in the sexual relationsh­ip. “Assumption­s and expectatio­ns are often tied to a lack of communicat­ion,” says O’reilly. “Don’t blame your partner or yourself. Share your feelings and speak your truth, even if it is a difficult conversati­on.” #Youreinc ontrol

 ?? ??
 ?? P H O T O C R E D I T: D A V E L A U S ?? Dr. Jess O’reilly
P H O T O C R E D I T: D A V E L A U S Dr. Jess O’reilly
 ?? ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Canada