The most common change is decreased lubrication during sexual activity. The good news is that these problems can be solved. Estrogen replacement can be extremely helpful, along with regular exercise, Kegel exercises, nonprescription vaginal lubricants, and regular sexual activity. Then production plummets, and with it sexual desire. The emotional side of sexuality, stress, and perimenopausal symptoms can lead to lowered sexual interest.
Some women also feel depressed and have uncomfortable perimenopausal symptoms.
Many women use hormone replacement therapy after a hysterectomy to ease symptoms and make sex more enjoyable again. Alternative therapies may also be helpful. For example, as men age they take longer to achieve erections, and may need more direct stimulation of the penis. You can help by initiating some creative foreplay. Some methods you might discuss with your health care provider are condoms, the diaphragm, sterilization, intrauterine devices, injections, and birth control pills.