Sexual Wellbeing at 50: Key Insights from a Gynaecologist
Published: 13 February, 2025 | 3'
February 14th is a date socially linked to the celebration of couples and friendship for Valentine's Day. However, it is also a day when sexual wellbeing is celebrated on the European Sexual Health Day, aimed at emphasising the importance of adopting and maintaining healthy sexual habits that contribute to our wellbeing and happiness.
In this regard, for women, especially those who have reached the age of 50, it is advisable to follow habits that promote intimate care. We review the recommendations in this area with the help of Dr. Joan Matas Dalmases, an integrative gynaecologist.
Vaginal dryness, one of the main signs of this new stage
“Around this age, hormone levels, especially oestrogens and progesterone, begin to decrease, which may lead to a series of significant physical and emotional changes that directly affect the enjoyment of a full and pleasurable sexuality”, explains the doctor, “including vaginal dryness”.
Although vaginal dryness can occur due to various factors and at any age, around 45 to 50 years, during the phases of perimenopause and later, menopause, it is very common to experience dryness in the intimate area and other physical and hormonal changes that can cause discomfort during sexual relations1.
"Oestrogens play a role in lubrication, elasticity, and wellbeing of vaginal tissue. With low oestrogen levels, vaginal tissue can become thinner and drier”, elaborates the expert.
A less known approach is that oestrogen also determines the structure and functionality of the urethra, which, during menopause, experiences decreased elasticity, thickness, and shortening. This can lead to frequent discomfort in the urinary tract, a frequent need to urinate, and burning sensations.
The importance of using vaginal moisturisers like Ginecoil
In the face of these discomforts, vaginal moisturisers that contain hydrolysed hyaluronic acid, such as Ginecoil, can be an option for hydration and relief from discomfort. “Hyaluronic acid provides hydration, elasticity, and firmness to the vaginal area and supports the balance of the vaginal microbiota, limiting the potential presence of bacteria that are not normally found in the vaginal mucosa”, explains the doctor. He also highlights that the continuous application of vaginal moisturisers can support the integrity of the mucosa, moisture the underlying tissue, and ensure the structure of the folds and ridges is adequate, both of the vulva and vagina.
Hormonal imbalances and sexual wellbeing
On the other hand, irritability and mood changes during this stage can also be signs of a hormonal imbalance and can interfere with sexual activity. As the expert explains, around the age of 50, progesterone levels decrease due to the hormonal changes inherent to ageing. When stress is high, the body uses this hormone in the production of cortisol, which is the hormone that activates you in response to stress. This affects the low levels of progesterone, which are associated with greater irritability.
This hormonal imbalance and cortisol levels can be regulated with techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing, which are key to stress management. It is also important to prioritise good rest, sleeping for 7 to 8 hours, and to follow a balanced diet with foods high in magnesium, vitamin B6, and healthy fats.
Learn to rediscover your body
We mistakenly associate exploration and discovery of the body with adolescence or our twenties, when in reality, just as we change, our bodies and preferences do too. Thus, the age of 50 presents an opportunity for rediscovery and to explore new facets of oneself and connect with desire from a more conscious and fulfilling perspective.
During this stage of life, hormonal fluctuations directly affect sexual desire2. Therefore, this is an opportunity to re-explore and redefine what brings us pleasure. “Some women discover that desire is not so much dependent on hormones but on emotional intimacy, connection, and sensory experiences”, explains Dr. Joan Matas.
The gynaecologist also recommends some habits that can be implemented in daily life to promote sexual wellbeing, such as “open communication with your partner, practicing self-exploration, performing pelvic floor exercises that promote blood circulation in the vaginal and clitoral areas, or creating a relaxing environment at home.”
If you want to know more about women's wellbeing...
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Content created in collaboration with Dr. Joan Matas. This article is for informational purposes and does not substitute for consulting a specialist.
About the specialist
Dr. Joan Matas is an integrative gynaecologist, specialising in Breast Pathology, Fertility, and Orthomolecular Medicine and Nutrition. Through his social media @dr.matasdalmases he helps inform and promote healthy habits.
