Show Notes
What I Discussed with Tanya Leake… - What clitoral atrophy is and why many women have never heard of it. - How menopause can affect sensation, arousal and orgasm. - The connection between clitoral health, blood flow and hormonal changes. - What clitoral adhesions are and how they can develop over time. - Whether regular sexual activity can help maintain sexual function during menopause. - The role of vaginal oestrogen, testosterone and other treatment options. - Non-hormonal approaches that may support vaginal and sexual health. - Why many women struggle to get accurate information about menopause-related sexual changes. And much more...
Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:40 What Is Clitoral Atrophy? 05:00 How Menopause Affects Sexual Function 07:40 Blood Flow, Sensation and Pleasure 09:30 Does Sexual Activity Help? 13:20 Treatment Options and Hormonal Support 18:30 Why Women's Sexual Health Is Often Overlooked 22:00 Menopause Care and Healthcare Gaps 26:00 Breast Cancer, Menopause and Sexual Function 28:30 Non-Hormonal Treatments and Emerging Research 32:00 Advocating for Your Sexual Health
Episode Description Why does nobody talk about clitoral atrophy? Most women have heard about hot flushes, brain fog and vaginal dryness during menopause. Far fewer know that menopause can also affect the clitoris, potentially impacting sensation, arousal and sexual pleasure. In this episode, I speak with Tanya Leake, menopause mindset and lifestyle coach, about a topic that remains surprisingly absent from many conversations about women's health. Together, we explore what clitoral atrophy is, why it happens, and how hormonal changes can affect sexual function during and after menopause. We discuss the role of blood flow, tissue health and nerve sensitivity, as well as practical ways women can support their sexual wellbeing as they age. Tanya also explains the differences between vaginal oestrogen, testosterone therapy and non-hormonal approaches, while highlighting why so many women struggle to get the information and support they need from healthcare providers. Whether you're currently navigating menopause, supporting a partner, or simply want to understand more about female sexual health, this conversation offers valuable insights into a subject that deserves far more attention. Listen, learn and enjoy.
Key Takeaways - Clitoral atrophy is a real but often overlooked aspect of menopause. - Hormonal changes can affect sensation, arousal and orgasm. - Blood flow plays an important role in maintaining sexual function. - Clitoral adhesions can develop when tissue changes occur over time. - Regular stimulation may help support tissue health and sexual wellbeing. - Vaginal oestrogen can be an effective treatment option for many women. - Non-hormonal alternatives may be available for those who cannot use hormones. - Breast cancer survivors often face additional sexual health challenges. - Women should feel empowered to discuss sexual health concerns with healthcare providers. - Education and self-advocacy are important parts of menopause care.
Understanding Clitoral Atrophy What Is Clitoral Atrophy? Clitoral atrophy refers to changes in the clitoris that may occur when declining hormone levels reduce blood flow and tissue health. These changes can affect sensation, arousal and sexual pleasure.
Why Does It Happen? During menopause, lower levels of oestrogen and other hormones can impact blood circulation, tissue elasticity and nerve sensitivity within the genital area.
What Are the Signs? - Women may notice: - Reduced sensitivity - Difficulty reaching orgasm - Changes in arousal - Discomfort during stimulation - Changes in genital tissue
What Can Women Do About It? - Treatment options may include: - Vaginal oestrogen - Testosterone therapy (where appropriate) - Regular sexual stimulation - Pelvic floor exercises - Non-hormonal moisturisers and treatments - Specialist menopause support
About the Guest Tanya Leake is a menopause mindset
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