Sensitivity to touch in menopause: causes, symptoms and relief

Many women experience physical and emotional changes during menopause. One of the most significant symptoms is increased sensitivity to touch, which can affect physical and emotional well-being ⁽¹⁾. 

In addition, at this stage, female arousal may be altered due to hormonal and sensory changes that affect nervous and emotional response ⁽³⁾. 

Why is it essential to understand sensitivity to touch in menopause? 

Menopause brings with it a progressive decline in sex hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are crucial in skin health, neurological function and sexual response. Their reduction can lead to changes in sensory perception ^(1,2). Addressing these changes with self-care and knowledge contributes to preserving sexual health and quality of life during menopause ⁽¹⁾. 

Hormonal changes and their effects on the skin and nervous system 

Estrogen depletion directly affects the skin. It minimizes collagen production and natural hydration, contributing to drier, thinner skin prone to irritation (2).  

In addition, these hormonal changes impact the nervous system. They can increase pain perception and generate sensations such as burning, itching or numbness, known as paresthesias ^(1,3). 

These sensory alterations can also carry over into the realm of intimacy. Some women notice a reduced response to touch in erotic games. This can lead to frustration or insecurity if it is not understood that this is a natural effect of hormonal decline ⁽¹⁾. 

Breaking down sensitivity to touch in menopause causes and symptoms 

Let's review the reasons why skin sensitivity occurs in menopause, as well as its main symptoms to identify it.  

Alterations in the nervous system and their impact on sensory perception 

Hormonal changes can affect nerve function, intensifying sensitivity and generating symptoms such as burning or numbness. Thus, it usually affects the quality of daily life ⁽²⁾. 

Uncomfortable emotional or physical symptoms may also occur after sexual intercourse, a phenomenon known as post-coital dysphoria ⁽³⁾.  

The skin, for its part, becomes drier and less elastic. This factor favors the appearance of itching or irritation. In the sexual sphere, this dryness can translate into discomfort, pain or decreased pleasure, making sexual intercourse more difficult ^(1,2). 

Lack of lubrication can also be associated with vaginismus, an involuntary contraction of the vaginal muscles that can cause pain. Knowing how to treat this condition is key to regaining intimate well-being ⁽¹⁾. 

How to recognize menopause-related sensitivity to touch? 

Correctly identifying this symptom is essential to treat it in time and improve overall well-being. 

Differences with other conditions and signals to consult 

It is important to distinguish sensitivity to touch caused by menopause from other conditions, such as peripheral neuropathies or allergic reactions. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to see a specialist ⁽¹⁾. 

Some warning signs include ⁽⁵⁾: 

Practical tips to alleviate sensitivity to touch 

If you have these symptoms, the best thing to do is to implement some strategies to relieve skin sensitivity ⁽¹⁾. 

It is recommended to deeply moisturize the skin with fragrance-free products, avoid very hot showers or baths that dry out the skin, use natural oils such as coconut or almond oil, maintain a diet rich in antioxidants and do regular physical activity to promote circulation ⁽¹⁾. 

An active sex life can also improve physical and emotional health. Although not all women experience it, female ejaculation is associated with high levels of arousal and can be part of sexual well-being at this stage ⁽⁵⁾. 

In addition, maintaining vaginal wetness using specific lubricants or moisturizers contributes to greater comfort and preserves intimate well-being during this stage ⁽³⁾. 

Sensitivity to touch: healthy skin habits 

While daily care is very important, there are products that may help reduce the discomfort caused by touch sensitivity. 

Products that can help to improve menopausal tenderness: 

The use of specific skin care and vaginal health products can help restore the skin's protective barrier and improve hydration, thereby reducing the discomfort associated with increased sensitivity during menopause ⁽³⁾. 

 
Issviva alternatives and complementary products for sensitivity to touch  

Some options you can incorporate into your routine are: 

Celebrating the new stage with self-care and knowledge 

While menopause presents challenges, it also offers the opportunity to focus on self-care and wellness. At Issviva, we support women during menopause by providing specialized products and informational resources. To explore more options, visit Essity. 

Understanding sensitivity to touch allows women to live this stage with greater comfort and confidence, including in their intimate lives. Talking openly about topics such as the female orgasm can be key to rediscovering pleasure. 

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