Post-Menopause Sexual Wellness at 60, 70 & Beyond

(~560 words – easy read, science-backed, lots of links)

First, a Reality Check

Sex doesn’t end when periods do. Surveys show that more than half of women over 60 remain sexually active and satisfied – when comfort issues are addressed. [NAMS]

Your body has changed, not shut down. Think “update,” not “offline.”

What Actually Changes After Menopause?

Shift	Why it happens	What it feels like
Less natural lubrication	Estrogen drop thins vaginal lining	Dryness, burning, tiny tears
Lower blood flow	Vessels less elastic	Slower arousal, weaker orgasms
Pelvic floor weakening	Loss of collagen + childbirth history	Leaks, reduced sensation
Libido ups & downs	Hormones, meds, mood	Desire may dip or spike

More detail: [NIH review]

Science-Backed Comfort Boosters

1. Make Moisture Your BFF

Over-the-counter water or silicone-based lubes work instantly.
Vaginal moisturizers (applied 2–3 ×/week) rebuild hydration over time.
Prefer “clean” labels (no glycerin or parabens) if you’re prone to irritation.
Helpful list: [Cleveland Clinic]

2. Local Estrogen = Local Results

Low-dose vaginal estrogen rings, tablets, or creams restore tissue thickness within 12 weeks and are considered safe for most women—even many with a history of estrogen-positive breast cancer. Discuss with your oncologist first! [ACOG]

3. Strengthen the Floor

Kegel exercises (3 sets of 10 squeezes daily) improve blood flow and orgasm intensity. Not sure you’re “doing them right”? Try a smart pelvic trainer app/device. [Mayo Clinic how-to]

4. Move Your Body, Prime Your Brain

150 minutes of brisk walking per week increases nitric oxide, aiding genital blood flow.
Mindfulness or CBT can reboot desire and reduce pain anticipation. [Study]

5. Toys, Tech & RX Options

Vibrators boost circulation and pleasure; pick medical-grade silicone.
Ospemifene (tablet) treats painful sex; Prasterone (DHEA suppository) improves lubrication.
Energy-based lasers (CO₂, Er:YAG) show promise but are still “emerging” and pricey—ask for FDA-cleared devices only. [FDA statement]

Partnered, Solo, or Somewhere in Between

Communication trumps gymnastics. Try:

“Yes-No-Maybe” lists to map comfort zones.
Scheduling intimacy when you’re least tired and most lubed (often early evening).
Mixing sensual (non-goal) touch with sexual touch.

No partner? Masturbation maintains elasticity, reduces UTIs and improves sleep. [Harvard Health]

Safety First—STIs Still Exist

Condoms remain relevant; infection rates in people 60 + doubled in the last decade. [CDC]

When to Call a Pro

Seek a gynecologist, pelvic floor PT, or certified sex therapist if you have:

Bleeding after sex
Pain that lingers >3 months
Libido crash linked to depression or meds
Concerns about hormones after cancer or blood clots

Find experts: [ISSM Provider Map]

Quick Myth Busting

“I’m too old for orgasms.” – Nerves stay functional; practice revives them.
“Desire should be spontaneous.” – In long-term relationships, responsive desire (getting turned on after stimulation) is totally normal. [Basson Model]
“Pain is just part of aging.” – Treatable 90 % of the time.

Bottom Line

At 60, 70 or 90, sexual wellness is part of overall health. With moisture, movement, and open conversation, pleasure can not only continue—it can get better.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and doesn’t replace personalized medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting new treatments, especially if you have cancer, cardiovascular disease, or unexplained bleeding.