Squirting remains something of a mystery in the world of female sexual experience ‒ and the nature of it is surprisingly controversial.
Because the act itself is so shrouded in secrecy and confusion, the question Can you squirt after menopause? can be really puzzling.
So what’s the deal here?
We’ll take you through the details.
In this article: 📝
- What is squirting?
- What is menopause?
- Can a woman get naturally wet after menopause?
- What can you do about vaginal dryness after menopause?
- How can I get pleasure after menopause?
What is squirting?
Sex is a fluid-filled activity.
And orgasms come (no pun intended) with their fair share of liquid accompaniment.
Until recently, the topic of female squirting was the domain of porn enthusiasts ‒ and many doubted whether it was even possible.
But if you’ve experienced a flow of liquid that coincides with some or all of your orgasms, we don’t need to persuade you that this phenomenon actually exists.
Way back in 1984, this study reported that 54% percent of its respondents experienced an “orgasmic expulsion of fluid” when they reached the heights of sexual pleasure.
But as to what exactly the nature of this liquid is, well, that’s been up for debate.
While the two terms are often used interchangeably, this recent study examined how squirting and female ejaculation differ from one another.
The liquid involved in female ejaculation is a thick fluid that comes from the Skene’s gland in your urethra.
These glands (sometimes referred to as the female prostate) swell when you are sexually stimulated and are partly responsible for lubricating your vagina during sex.
So is that the same as squirting?
Not exactly, as it turns out.
The liquid produced from squirting comes from the urinary bladder and is more like urine, but transparent.
And the plot thickens further.
Other than Skene’s glands, there’s another set of glands that take center stage in this story.
These are called Bartholin’s glands and are located on either side of the opening to the vagina.
Their job is to lubricate the vagina, and when you have sex, they really kick into gear.
What happens when a woman squirts?
First of all, let’s break down the myth that squirting is something only young women can do.
The truth is, women of any age can experience it.
So, yes, you can definitely squirt after menopause.
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty.
When a woman squirts, it’s basically a release of fluid from the urinary bladder.
It’s not entirely urine, as there’s a mix of other secretions, too, like from the prostate gland (yes, female ejaculation and squirting can happen at the same time!).
In fact, the average age for women to experience squirting was 34 years, with many “first time’s” being around 24 years old.
However, for menopausal women, it may take a little more effort to get things flowing.
But don’t let that discourage you, ladies!
With a little patience, practice, and some extra stimulation, you can still achieve that elusive squirt.
So, whether you’re premenopausal or menopausal, don’t let age hold you back from experiencing all the pleasures of sexual exploration.
Remember, your body is capable of amazing things at any age.
What does it mean when a woman squirts?
Let’s get straight to the point: when a woman squirts, it usually means she’s experiencing an intense and pleasurable orgasm that results in the release of fluid from the urinary bladder, along with a little contribution from the Skene’s glands.
In fact, many women report experiencing more intense and frequent orgasms after menopause due to changes in hormone levels and increased sexual confidence.
So don’t let anyone tell you that your sexual pleasure has an expiration date.
But let’s clear up some misconceptions.
Some people believe that squirting is just pee, but that’s simply not true.
The fluid released during squirting is actually a combination of urine and other fluids from your Skene’s glands, which are located near the G-spot.
So, if you’re a premenopausal or menopausal woman who hasn’t experienced squirting yet, don’t be discouraged.
It may take some exploration, experimentation, and communication with your partner to find the right stimulation and achieve that particular release.
What is menopause?
Menopause is technically a moment in time, defined as twelve months after you have your last period.
Leading up to it, your body experiences all sorts of changes.
Most notably, your hormones go through ups and downs until the two main female sex hormones, estrogen, and progesterone, fall.
After menopause, they’re no longer needed to take care of reproductive processes like ovulation and preparing the uterus for pregnancy.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, changes in estrogen levels can lead to all sorts of changes to your vagina.
The vaginal walls can lose elasticity and thickness, and lubrication can dry up.
These symptoms combine to form the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) – which can include painful or uncomfortable sex.
In what was called the Global Study of Sexual Attitudes and Behaviors, 13,882 women between the ages of 40 and 80 were surveyed.
The results showed that between 26 and 48% of women weren’t interested in sex and that up to 41% of women had difficulty reaching orgasm.
So if this is where you’re at, you’re certainly not alone.
Changes in your sex life can have a bearing on a number of other spheres.
You may find that your self-esteem and quality of life are impacted and that there are new challenges to your intimate relationships.
So yep, it’s absolutely worth thinking about what you want from your sex life as you age and how to pay attention to your needs.
Can a woman get naturally wet after menopause?
Like most things related to our bodies, we all go through menopause slightly differently.
That being said, experiencing changes to our sexual function is very common.
GSM affects as many 53.8% of women, with the likelihood increasing with age.
Having other symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, appears to increase your chances of having vaginal dryness.
If this is what you’re going through, you don’t have to suffer through it.
And if you’re interested in giving your sex life a boost, there are ways to do so.
We’ll take you through them.
What can you do about vaginal dryness after menopause?
The first thing to do is talk to your doctor.
(We know ‒ this can feel like a very personal topic that’s difficult to raise. But it’s part of your health as you age, and it matters.)
There are a number of treatments that may help here:
Vaginal moisturizers
There are several OTC options that can be inserted into your vagina to boost your moisture levels.
Some moisturizers are long-acting, meaning you only need to apply them every few days.
(Just make sure you opt for a product specifically for vaginal use.)
Vaginal lubricants
Lubes are used to reduce friction during sex.
Opt for lubes that don’t contain glycerin, as these can sap moisture and cause irritation ‒ definitely not ideal right now.
Vaginal estrogen therapy
You might be exploring oral hormone therapy for other menopause symptoms in the form of pills and patches.
Speak to your doctor about whether these may help ease symptoms of GSM.
Another option for hormone therapy for vaginal dryness is topical estrogen.
You can get vaginal estrogen creams, rings, tablets, and suppositories ‒ all of which are inserted into the vagina, either by your doctor or yourself.
Intrarosa
Containing an ingredient called prasterone, Intrarosa is an FDA-approved vaginal insert for the treatment of pain during sex after menopause.
Osphena
This non-hormonal prescription medication is also used to treat painful sex and vaginal dryness.
Talk to your doctor about whether it’s right for you.
Get vibing!
Sex toys as a prescription?
The possibility is sounding more and more likely.
Vibrators are showing a lot of promise when it comes to reducing the symptoms that come with GSM.
How can I get pleasure after menopause?
There are actually lots of ways you can explore what gets you going after menopause.
The most important factor is communication with your partner ‒ if you’re keen on something other than a solo activity.
Don’t be afraid to speak up about what feels good and what doesn’t.
You may find that your body responds differently now, and it’s important to explore new sensations and techniques.
Another thing to try is self-exploration.
Take some time to get to know your body and what turns you on.
Experiment with different types of stimulation, such as clitoral, vaginal, or even anal stimulation.
You may be surprised at what feels good and how your body responds.
And of course, don’t forget about the power of your mind.
Explore your fantasies and try new things in the bedroom.
Maybe you’ve always wanted to try a new position or introduce some toys into the mix.
Whatever it is, let yourself get lost in the moment and enjoy the pleasure.
So, whether you’re a premenopausal or menopausal woman, know that your sexual pleasure is not only possible, but it can also be mind-blowing.
Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
Embrace your desires, communicate with your partner, and let yourself experience all the pleasure that life has to offer.
For many of us, menopause comes with changes to our bodies ‒ especially when it comes to sex.
It may be more difficult for us to get aroused, lubricated, and reach orgasms.
And all this will affect our ability to squirt and ejaculate.
But there are numerous treatments that can help.
Don’t be afraid to discuss your options with your doctor to see what may be appropriate for you.
And if your desire for sex has changed a lot, and you’re just no longer as into it as you were, that’s also totally fine.
There are so many ways to be intimate with our partners, cultivate self-esteem, and love our bodies ‒ and while sex can be a part of that, it’s not the only road there.
Do what feels good to you.
Let your partner know where you’re at.
And talk to your Peanut community who are going through the same thing.