What does your “Girls Night” consist of? Pizza, wine and a few episodes of Emily In Paris? Or is it an evening where you and your girls have an intense conversation about sex, toys and men? For many it will be the first option as the latter makes many feel uncomfortable. Why is it difficult to have conversations about our sexual health? Maybe it’s the fear of judgment, that there’s something “wrong” with you?
Did you know that an incredible 63% of women experience some form of sexual discomfort? Yes. It’s you and almost every woman around you!
Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Here is a list of questions and answers that may be on your mind but you’ve never wanted to ask.
1. My periods are irregular – have I reached menopause?
You’ve crossed out all the calendar days and Aunt Flo hasn’t visited you yet. Your first thoughts might be pregnancy or menopause. Menopause is a reality between the ages of 45 and 55, but irregular periods can occur at any age. Dr. Bradley Wagemaker, medical director at Lamelle Research Laboratories, says, “When hormonal imbalances and changes in hormone levels occur in your body (for example, when you take birth control or become pregnant), you may experience irregular blood flow.”
Research suggests that stress and pollution can affect the body and have devastating effects on your sexual organs and your vital sex hormone, estrogen.
READ MORE: These unusual PMS symptom treatments actually work – without painkillers
2. Why am I so moody?
I find it insulting when people accuse me of being moody. It’s never my fault, it’s my hormones. Mood swings are very common when hormonal changes take place in your body. “Oxidative stress causes a depletion of nitric oxide in the body and leads to hormonal changes that cause mood swings at any age,” says Dr. Bradley Wagemaker.
3. I find it difficult to “get in the mood” – help me!
Want to get your groove back but it’s a bit difficult? Dr. Bradley Wagemaker says: “A decrease in libido or sexual desire is a normal psychological (mental) response to physiological (physical) damage to your organs. When you experience dryness and discomfort during sex, your brain often triggers a natural reaction in your brain to try to avoid the uncomfortable situation again.” Don’t be embarrassed or avoid sex either. Discover different ways to spruce up the bedroom.
READ MORE: The 9 Best Natural Lubricants for a Happy Vagina
4. How can I improve intimacy with my partner?
A couple’s physical intimacy takes work to maintain beyond the “honeymoon phase.” Take care of yourself by investing in your well-being, personal development and mindfulness. When you are well, you add important vitality to your relationship. Be curious and open yourself to new things.
