Cape Town - We’re a month away from the anticipated Weekend Argus Women’s Wellness Experience and we’ve got a list of influential key note speakers gearing up to share heaps of knowledge and exciting activities come September 28.
A variety of the Cape’s leading women from multiple health spaces will grace the President Hotel for a day of informative engagements. Attendees will be treated to all the most essential and important female-focused sessions and allowed to ask questions and advice around the various services brought to the event.
Among the all-female line-up is psychologist and sexologist Dr Marelize Swart.
Swart will touch on topics addressing sexual health and intimacy for women navigating menopause.
She explained: “Our sexual self-esteem is an integral part of who we are, how we see ourselves, and how we relate to others. In fact, our sexual self-esteem plays a key role in how we see ourselves not only in the bedroom but also how we feel about ourselves ‘out of the bedroom’.
“When a sexual difficulty develops for a woman in her midlife, it very soon becomes a couples issue that affects both partners that may lead to a great deal of distress.
“I often say that if sex is not a problem; it affects 10% of the couple’s relationship but when there is a problem; it starts to have a life of its own. Couples can get stuck in the pursuer-distance dynamic and before you know, you find yourself stuck in a pattern of little to no sex or your sex life may become riddled with pressure, expectations and feelings of coercion.
“A health care provider or a sex therapist can provide tailored advice if symptoms become overwhelming,” Swart said.
With 30 years in the industry, Swart recommends that couples who are affected by the challenges with menopause should explore alternative forms of intimacy.
“When it comes to sex, couples should explore alternative forms of intimacy beyond that of a goal-oriented approach that always ends with penetrative sex and strives for orgasm. Experimenting with different ways to be intimate can reignite passion again and strengthen the couple’s emotional bond.
“Sometimes couples may find it challenging to navigate this transition alone. Seeking the guidance of a therapist or health care provider with expertise in menopause can provide valuable insights and strategies for managing the emotional and physical changes that accompany menopause. This period, while challenging, can also serve as an opportunity for growth and deeper connection, allowing couples to reinforce their commitment to one another,” she said.
For more insight around wellness and sessions with a dietitian, obstetrician, dermatologist, medical doctor and more, book your seat now via Quicket at R350 to make sure you’re clued up. There’s a jam-packed goodie bag involved so hurry up to secure your spot.
venecia.america@inl.co.za
Cape Argus