Human beings are unique creatures who experience hormone-driven physiological changes throughout their lifespan. During puberty, for instance, teenagers undergo massive physical and psychological transformations that often result in intense emotional turmoil. In later stages of life, menopause and aging affect women differently than they do men, leading to changes such as reduced libido and dryness.
Major life events like pregnancy, childbirth, or loss can cause significant shifts in behavior and expectations from partners. Maintaining excitement and novelty in such circumstances requires effort, communication, and open-mindedness. Here are some tips for couples experiencing hormonal and life-stage changes:
1. Be open about your needs: It is crucial for couples to discuss their desires and fantasies regularly to ensure mutual satisfaction.
This becomes more difficult during times of physical and mental transition. Couples should avoid being judgmental or accusatory when expressing themselves, but honest and candid about what feels good and how they want it done.
A woman going through menopause might have lowered sexual desire and need reassurance that her partner still finds her attractive. She may also appreciate intimacy outside the bedroom, such as handholding or cuddling while watching TV together. Open communication helps couples explore new ways of connecting without feeling guilty or embarrassed.
2. Experiment with sensory stimulation: Sensuality goes beyond touch, sight, sound, taste, and smell. It involves all our senses - movement, temperature, and even time itself. You could try roleplaying, dressing up, listening to music, setting a romantic mood with candles and incense, and adding a timer to limit foreplay or sex. You could also incorporate food into intimacy by serving each other dishes you cooked yourself. These activities help individuals feel more alive, engaged, and connected despite physiological changes.
3. Practice mindfulness and self-care: Physical intimacy does not end after childbirth or aging. Couples can keep things fresh by focusing on what brings them pleasure and doing it frequently. This means taking care of oneself individually and supporting one another in personal endeavors. Some examples include meditating, exercising, practicing yoga, reading books, and engaging in hobbies like painting or knitting. These activities increase oxytocin levels and reduce cortisol stress, making couples less stressed and more attentive to their partners' needs. A happy person is more likely to be satisfied and confident in their body, which makes for better sex.
4. Seek professional help: Sex therapy is an excellent resource for couples experiencing relationship issues due to life events or hormonal changes. Therapists provide unbiased advice and insights that encourage open communication between partners. They may suggest techniques like 'kegels' exercise for vaginal dryness and other sexual difficulties, as well as medications such as Viagra for erectile dysfunction. In addition, counseling helps address past trauma or emotional hurdles affecting current relationships. It is important to remember that there are always solutions available; seeking help shows commitment to a long-term healthy union.
How can couples maintain excitement and novelty during hormonal or life-stage changes?
Couples can maintain excitement and novelty by exploring new activities together that are physically or mentally stimulating, communicating effectively about their changing needs and desires, and actively seeking out ways to surprise and delight each other. Additionally, it's important for couples to prioritize intimacy and connection even when their schedules become more hectic or they face difficult challenges.