Our Bodies Change. Intimacy Doesn't Have To.

There is something humbling about watching your body evolve over time.

As a mother of four, my body has changed in ways I never could have fully understood when I was younger. Some things that once felt effortless now require a little more support, physically, mentally, and spiritually. As I begin navigating the unfamiliar waters of perimenopause, I find myself seeking knowledge with a deeper sense of intention: medically researched, current, and holistic approaches that honor the body as a whole rather than simply masking symptoms.

I have always believed healing and comfort begin with understanding.

For me, that means paying attention not only to what I put inside my body through nourishment and lifestyle, but also what I place on my skin and body topically. Growing up in the late 70s and 80s, I remember coating my face in Noxzema and collecting beautifully scented lotions from Victoria's Secret, believing those little bottles represented luxury skincare. Times were different then, and so was my understanding of wellness.

I grew up in Santa Cruz surrounded by a lifestyle deeply connected to nature, surfing, mountain biking, hiking, paddling, swimming in the ocean, growing organic produce, and spending as much time outdoors as possible. Natural wellness was woven into everyday life. I was raised to believe the body has an incredible capacity to heal when supported intentionally.

Even now, I still find comfort in holistic practices: ginger root tea with lemon and honey when I am sick, salt water rinses, bone broth, herbal tinctures, medicinal mushrooms, and nourishing foods prepared with care. I have always been drawn to understanding ingredients, where they come from, how they have been used traditionally, and how they can support the body gently and effectively.

Motherhood deepened that connection even more.

Each of my births was entirely different, though all four happened naturally. I remain deeply grateful for those experiences, but childbirth also changed my body in lasting ways. After my first daughter, I experienced discomfort that affected intimacy for quite some time. As I grew older and welcomed more children, I began noticing how differently the body responds to physical demands, stress, hormones, and aging.

These conversations are often whispered about quietly between women, if they are spoken about at all.

Recently, while researching symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause, I came across an article from the Mayo Clinic discussing vaginal dryness and painful intimacy. The article explained that vaginal dryness is one of the primary symptoms of what is known as genitourinary syndrome of menopause, caused by declining estrogen levels that can lead to thinning, irritation, and discomfort within vaginal tissue.

The article outlined several supportive options women may consider with guidance from their healthcare provider, including:

• Vaginal moisturizers to help maintain hydrated, healthy vaginal tissue
• Vaginal lubricants to ease friction and discomfort during intimacy
• Low-dose vaginal estrogen therapies
• Oral medications such as ospemifene (Osphena)
• DHEA vaginal suppositories
• Regular intimacy or vaginal stimulation to support healthy blood flow and tissue function

What I appreciated most was that the information acknowledged both clinical and supportive holistic approaches. It reminded me that preparation, nourishment, and gentle support can truly make a difference in comfort and connection.

That understanding is part of what inspired Suet'Amor.

Because I care deeply about what I put on and inside my body, finding something that feels pure, supportive, and nourishing matters to me. Suet'Amor has helped intimacy feel comfortable, connected, and shared again in a way that feels natural rather than clinical.

And maybe that is the reminder more women need to hear:

Our bodies changing does not mean intimacy has to disappear.

As mothers, as women, as humans constantly evolving, we still deserve softness, comfort, connection, and care.

Please note: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. If you are experiencing significant symptoms, please consult your healthcare provider.

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