Some sterilization procedures
are theoretically reversible.
However, reversal does not
always work. Therefore, you
should treat the procedure as
permanent.
Part 6 of 6: Aging and Sex
Don’t Let Age Slow You
Down
The best way to keep your sex
life healthy is to keep having
sex. Regular sexual activity
helps to keep the vagina
healthy. However, even if you
haven’t had sex in a while, age
doesn’t have to hinder your sex
life. You just have to keep
certain factors in mind.
Balance Your Hormones
The perimenopausal period
occurs five to 10 years before
menopause. During this period,
your hormones may fluctuate
wildly. This may cause:
a lower libido
irregular periods
vaginal dryness
A low-dose birth control pill or
hormonal IUD may be able to
help. However, you shouldn’t
use hormones if you are still
trying to get pregnant.
As you move into menopause,
your hormone levels will
continue to change. A lack of
estrogen can lead to vaginal
atrophy and dryness. This can
be helped with hormone
replacement therapy (HRT) or
local estrogen creams.
Physical Changes
Many women experience
vaginal dryness after
menopause. Their vaginal
tissues may also become more
delicate and sensitive. This can
increase the risk of contracting
an STD. It can also make sex
more painful.
Problems with vaginal dryness
can often be helped with sexual
lubricants. Sometimes these
JOY FEELINGS | DECEMBER ISSUE
215