In many societies, including Western ones, women who reach menopause are expected to maintain their sexual attractiveness regardless of their age. This pressure puts women under enormous stress because it demands that they fulfill physical expectations while coping with physiological changes caused by hormonal imbalances. Many women report feeling frustrated and upset about losing the ability to enjoy sex due to vaginal dryness, urinary incontinence, or decreased libido.
Religious silence around menopause perpetuates these pressures and further stigmatizes older women's sexual desires. Women may feel shame for wanting to express themselves sexually or be fearful that their partners will judge them for being less than perfect. They may also worry about whether others will understand why they need more time to achieve orgasms or prefer different forms of stimulation. These cultural narratives lead to feelings of isolation during an already difficult transition period.
To address this issue, researchers suggest exploring how religions approach later-life intimacy and providing support for individuals who want to pursue healthy sexual experiences despite social norms.
Some faith traditions encourage couples to experiment with positions, toys, and roleplaying to enhance pleasure without relying on traditional scripts. Others emphasize spiritual intimacy as a way of connecting with loved ones beyond physical attraction. By challenging negative stereotypes about aging bodies, communities can create spaces where everyone feels welcome to express themselves honestly.
The topic is important because it highlights the intersection between gender roles and religion in shaping later-life wellbeing. While many women struggle with the impacts of menopause, cultural expectations may prevent them from receiving adequate care or finding fulfillment in relationships. Religious organizations should examine their teachings and practices regarding sex to better meet people's needs throughout life transitions.
In what ways does religious silence around menopause affect later-life intimacy?
Many women undergo significant changes during menopause that can impact their physical, mental, and social well-being. These include hormonal imbalances leading to mood swings, hot flashes, fatigue, insomnia, memory loss, depression, anxiety, weight gain, and vaginal dryness. It is not uncommon for some women to experience difficulty with sexual desire or arousal due to these changes.