According to Wellbeing of Women’s research, around 13 million people in the UK are perimenopausal or menopausal right now… and a large proportion of them are probably thinking about sex. One of the persistent myths surrounding menopause is that going through this stage of life means your sex life is effectively over – and co-founder and gynaecologist Dr Sarah Welsh, as well as many middle-aged nookie lovers , can confirm that this is simply not true. Face-sitting, doggy style, toys, role-playing and polyamy: it’s all to the max (even if it can you feel a little different the your desire levels may have changed). So, hormonal horndogs, you entered our DMs with a very interesting question: can you still suck after menopause? To Dr. HANX with a reassuring medical perspective…
What exactly *is* squirting?
Ah, whispers. Sometimes referred to as female ejaculation, this sexual phenomenon has gained notoriety thanks to the popularity of porn – and the debate over what the hell it actually is. In physical terms, it is what we call the release of an odorless, colorless fluid from the vagina during sexual arousal or orgasm. It might sound like you’re getting wet, but you’ll be able to tell the difference – some people say it feels like a gush and you can create a lot of the liquid. Not everyone can do it, and if you can, you might not do it every time you have sex.
Debate rages about what squirting actually is. Research on the subject is limited (as it tends to be when it comes to women’s health and pleasure, grrr), but some studies have found that the fluid he squirts contains fluid from both his bladder and his gland Skene, which are two small ducts either side of the urethra. The composition and amount of fluid ejected can vary from person to person, with some studies detecting traces of urine in the ejected fluid. However, this does not mean that you happily pee on your partner/yourself. Further scientific exploration is needed to fully understand this fascinating, and for many of us, very hot phenomenon.
Can I still huff after menopause?
While hormonal changes during menopause can potentially reduce natural lubrication, leading to vaginal dryness, the ability to ejaculate remains a possibility for some.
- Menopause affects each of us differently and can come with a number of factors that could affect your ability to ejaculate. Your general health, medications you are currently taking, stress levels, and the impact of hormonal changes on the delicate vaginal tissues can all play a factor. If you’re having no luck, consider talking to your doctor, health care provider, or sexual health specialist in confidence.
- Get creative. Experiment with different forms of stimulation, such as G-spot and clitoral massage. Whether you’re playing alone or with a partner(s), introducing sex toys can help. Us mini clit mocking Cindy is receiving rave reviews from our community who say “it is subtle, powerful and a lot of fun” – and we think we’ll soon have you competing Trafalgar Square Fountains…
- While there is no specific evidence that drinking plenty of fluids can lead to jet lag, it certainly doesn’t hurt to stay hydrated. Make sure you keep your fluid levels healthy, but also pay attention your caffeine levels. UTIs can be common during menopause, and caffeine can further irritate your urinary tract. Try swapping your latte for an herbal or fruit tea, decaffeinated coffee, or low-sugar squash.
- Remember to drape a towel or invest in a specially designed sex blanket (it’s a real thing!) designed to trap fluids.
- If all else fails and you want a little extra splash, try a few gentle pumps, water based lubricant. Avoid using oil-based products if you use silicone toys or latex condoms, as this can damage or break them.
Do they want more?
- Our feminine inners. The most frequently asked questions about menopause. Continue reading.
- Which companies have a menopause policy? It’s time to tackle the stigma of workplace health. Learn more.
- Managing change? Exploring our new all natural, nutritionally balanced Menopause support supplement.
