Let’s talk about this properly.
Because so many women are experiencing this, yet very few are speaking about it openly.
I’ve had conversations with women over the years who felt confused, frustrated, and sometimes even embarrassed.
They thought something was wrong with them.
Or that it was just part of getting older that they had to accept.
It’s not.
And you don’t have to stay silent about it.
What’s Actually Happening In Your Body
As you move through perimenopause, your hormones begin to shift.
Oestrogen starts to decline, and that has a direct impact on the vaginal and urinary area.
The tissues can become thinner, drier, and more sensitive.
Natural lubrication often reduces, which can make intimacy uncomfortable.
At the same time, the balance of bacteria changes.
This can increase irritation and the likelihood of UTIs.
You may also notice changes in bladder control.
Needing to go more often, or feeling urgency, becomes more common.
Changes In Arousal And Libido
There is another layer to this that many women are not prepared for.
Changes in blood flow and hormones can impact sensitivity and arousal.
Some women notice a shift in clitoral responsiveness over time.
Libido can also change.
Not just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well.
When your body feels different, your confidence can shift too.
And that can impact intimacy and connection.
This Has A Name, And It’s Common
This is known as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause.
It is a normal physiological response to hormonal change.
However, normal does not mean you have to tolerate it.
There are ways to support your body.
What Can Help You Feel Better
One of the biggest mistakes I see is women reducing their water intake.
They do this to avoid going to the toilet.
Unfortunately, that increases the risk of UTIs.
Hydration helps support urinary health and flush bacteria.
There are also other strategies that can make a real difference.
Using vaginal moisturisers or lubricants can improve comfort.
Speaking to your GP about vaginal oestrogen can be very effective for many women.
Supporting your hormones through nutrition, stress management, and sleep is also important.
If you are experiencing discomfort, a pelvic health physio can help.
Why This Matters More Than You Think
This is not just about physical symptoms.
It affects how you feel in your body.
Your confidence, your relationships, and your sense of self can all be impacted.
I’ve seen women withdraw, avoid intimacy, and question themselves.
Not because of who they are, but because they didn’t understand what was happening.
Once they do, everything starts to shift.
You Are Not Alone In This
If this is something you are experiencing, please know you are not alone.
This is far more common than you think.
And it is something you can get support with.
💜 If you need help managing your hormonal symptoms and understanding what your body needs:
And if you know a woman who is drowning in conflicting hormone advice, please share this 💫
- Coach Terri Batsakis
Other Blogs – “Your libido called; it said it’s not coming home until your cortiol calms the eff down“
Leave a Reply