By Gabriella Espinosa 2-Minute Read
The more we know about our bodies, the better we can advocate for ourselves, both in the bedroom and in the doctor’s office. This includes getting to know our sexual anatomy. Sexual wellness coach and host of the podcast Pleasure in the Pause Gabriella Espinosa shows us how caring for the most intimate part of bodies can lead to better quality of life and sexual satisfaction.
During the menopause transition, estrogen decline affects collagen and elasticity to the vulva leading to thinning, dryness, burning and pain during sex. These symptoms known as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GMS) lead many women to suffer in silence and believe that menopause means the end of sexual pleasure. The truth is when we embrace sexual wellness as essential self-care, midlife can be a new and exciting new chapter in our sexual lives whether we are solo or partnered.
Consider your vulva a garden. Like any garden, it requires proper care, nourishment, and attention to thrive. What can you do to ensure your garden continues to flourish throughout your life?
🌹Knowledge is power
Understand that vulvar anatomy includes mons pubis, clitoris, inner labia, outer labia, urethra, vestibule, perineum, and anus.
🌹Hormonal nutrients
Discuss the use of localized hormone therapy with your healthcare provider. This includes vaginal estrogen, testosterone, or DHEA which have been proven safe and effective for vulva/vaginal use.
🌹Hydration
Use a moisturizer daily that is free of parabens or perfumes to keep the vulvar and vaginal tissue hydrated, especially if you’re experiencing dryness. Womaness Daily V Soothe water-based vaginal moisturizer with hyaluronic acid works to lock in moisture for instant comfort.
Daily V Soothe
🌹Know YOUR vulva
Have a good look in the mirror to understand what your normal is and look out for any changes in color or texture which should be reported to your doctor.
🌹Vulva pleasure
Give yourself permission to explore your vulva purely for pleasure and discover where you experience heightened sensitivity. This can include gentle self-touch, massaging with a nourishing oil like Womaness Coco Bliss, or using of a vibrator like Womaness Gold Vibes (play with different speeds or vibration patterns for an extra boost of sensations!).
Gold Vibes
🌹Communicate with your partner
Open up a dialogue with your partner about the changes you are experiencing. Ask for more time, more gentleness during intimacy and share what feels good to you.
Nurturing your vulva garden is an act of self-love and an essential part of your health and wellbeing, especially as you navigate the changes of menopause. With proper care and attention, your garden can continue to bloom offering you a lifetime of pleasure and delight.
Learn more about Gabriella at gabriellaespinosa.com. You can also listen to the Pleasure in the Pause podcast at pleasureinthepause.com and follow her on Instagram.
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