Halle Berry Reveals the Challenges of Perimenopause on Intimacy: “Sex Felt like ‘Razor Blades'”
Halle Berry recently opened up about her struggles with perimenopause, highlighting how the experience made intimacy a painful ordeal. The award-winning actress candidly shared that the condition caused her vagina to feel extremely dry, to the point where sex was likened to “razor blades.” This revelation led her to introduce a personal lubricant as the inaugural product under her women’s wellness brand, Respin.
In a heartfelt discussion on The Drew Barrymore Show on February 25, Berry, 58, delved into the challenges of perimenopause alongside Barrymore, 50. Perimenopause is the phase preceding menopause, characterised by a decrease in estrogen levels and the cessation of menstruation. Berry disclosed that vaginal dryness was her initial symptom, a common occurrence due to the thinning of the vaginal lining caused by reduced estrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause.
The accomplished actress shared the obstacles she faced with intimacy, particularly with her partner, Van Hunt, with whom she has been in a loving relationship since 2020. Berry admitted to a period of approximately six to seven months where they struggled to engage in sex due to the discomfort caused by dryness. The impact of perimenopause on intimacy prompted Berry to collaborate with Joy Lux, a women’s wellness company, to develop a lubricating gel and an intimacy device aimed at promoting pelvic floor health.
Barrymore chimed in about the broader implications of such physical struggles on relationships, noting that the lack of intimacy due to personal challenges can strain partnerships significantly. The mental toll of navigating these difficulties can create barriers to understanding between partners, leading to potential rifts in relationships. The duo stressed the importance of open communication, support, and understanding in addressing the challenges posed by perimenopause.
Mental and emotional support were highlighted as crucial components in navigating the effects of perimenopause on intimacy. Berry underscored the need for women to courageously communicate with their partners about their experiences, emphasizing that most men are eager to offer their support and understanding. The lack of awareness and dialogue surrounding the topic was acknowledged, with a call for increased attention in the medical and public spheres to destigmatise discussions about menopause-related issues.
The conversation shed light on the broader societal need for enhanced awareness and support mechanisms for individuals navigating perimenopause and its accompanying challenges. Both Berry and Barrymore advocated for a more open dialogue surrounding menopause-related issues, stressing the importance of destigmatising these discussions in various arenas, including healthcare, media, and personal relationships.
In conclusion, the discussion between Berry and Barrymore served as a poignant reminder of the significance of open communication, understanding, and support when addressing the challenges of perimenopause. By sharing her personal journey, Berry catalysed a vital conversation around menopause-related issues, highlighting the necessity for increased awareness and empathy towards individuals navigating this transitional phase in their lives.