Natural Health: My sex drive has disappeared since starting menopause 

For a comprehensive plan, it is critical to find a women’s hormone specialist — a GP who specialises in this area, a gynaecologist, or an endocrinologist — for an in-depth assessment, HRT prescription, and, in many cases, nutritional and lifestyle suggestions.

I used to enjoy sex with my partner, even on days when I was tired after work and putting the children to bed. 

But since I’ve started menopause, my libido has all but disappeared. And it doesn’t help that I also have vaginal dryness. What can I do?

The hormonal changes that come with menopause can lead to myriad issues, including low libido, vaginal dryness, hot and cold flushes, night sweats, insomnia, brain fog, mood swings, anxiety, rage, migraines, weight gain, fatigue, breast tenderness, bladder problems, bloating,
osteoporosis, and joint pain.

The complexity of this midlife change can make it difficult to manage the individual symptoms. 

These changes often begin much earlier than we realise, usually from the age of 35 years onwards, so we can be riding a rollercoaster of hormonal changes while trying to deal with seemingly unrelated symptoms long before we realise what is happening.

Fortunately, there has been a significant rise in awareness among the general public and medical professionals as to how perimenopause affects women beyond hot flushes and the cessation of menstrual periods. 

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has come a long way since it was first available — we now know that it is not a simple one-size-fits-all approach.

We have a far more nuanced and individualised approach to hormone replacement using bioidentical hormones with regular adjustments in dosage and delivery system according to symptoms and hormone levels, allowing women to get the most benefit from HRT with the least drawbacks.

For a comprehensive plan, it is critical to find a women’s hormone specialist — a GP who specialises in this area, a gynaecologist, or an endocrinologist — for an in-depth assessment, HRT prescription, and, in many cases, nutritional and lifestyle suggestions.

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is an adaptogenic root vegetable found in Peru which helps nourish the body, balance hormones, and restore sex drive.

It is a complete protein high in vitamins and minerals, including calcium and zinc. It helps boost energy levels and improves mood. 

It is also a powerful antioxidant, containing approximately 100 times the levels found in other cruciferous crops such as broccoli.

Maca powder can be used in smoothies, hot drinks, porridge, muffins, bliss balls, pancakes, yoghurt, or raw chocolate. Its warm, earthy flavour pairs well with carob, cacao, chia seeds, berries, honey, nut butters, spices, and medicinal mushrooms.

Begin by consuming a teaspoon daily and gradually increase to a tablespoon.

Beneficial bacteria play a key role in vaginal health as it helps to balance the pH of the vagina, which is often a contributing factor in dryness, urinary tract infections, and discharge. 

Garden Of Life has developed a probiotic product for vaginal flora balance and urinary tract health called RAW Probiotics Vaginal Care. This range is available from natural health stores nationwide.

Ensure you are well hydrated, which is crucial for internal organ health. Essential fatty acids are also important for nourishing your tissues, lubricating them, and reducing inflammation.

Vaginal lubrication is an important factor in your enjoyment of sex, so it is a good idea to discuss this with a hormone specialist as well.

One of the most valuable resources I have come across in understanding and discussing the experience of perimenopause and menopause on an individual and shared basis is Dr Louise Newson’s Balance website, balance-menopause.com, and the associated Balance app.

NOTE: The information contained in this column is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a doctor.