Halle Berry Says Perimenopause Made Sex Feel like ‘Razor Blades’
Halle Berry recently shared her personal struggles with perimenopause, revealing how vaginal dryness made sex feel like “razor blades.” The Oscar-winning actress opened up about this intimate topic during a candid conversation on The Drew Barrymore Show. Her experience inspired her to create a lubricant, the first product from her women’s wellness company, Respin.
This article dives into Berry’s story, the challenges of perimenopause, and how her new product aims to help women navigate this often-overlooked phase of life.
What Is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transitional period before menopause when a woman’s body begins to produce less estrogen. This phase can last several years and often comes with symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.
Berry, 58, shared that her first noticeable symptom was vaginal dryness, also known as vaginal atrophy. This condition occurs when the vaginal lining thins due to decreased estrogen levels, leading to discomfort, itching, burning, and painful intercourse.
Halle Berry’s Personal Experience with Perimenopause
During her appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show, Berry didn’t hold back when describing her struggles.
Vaginal Dryness: Berry revealed that intimacy became extremely painful, comparing the sensation to “razor blades.”
Impact on Relationships: She admitted that her relationship with longtime partner Van Hunt was affected, as they struggled to find solutions for nearly seven months.
Breaking the Silence: Berry emphasized the importance of open conversations about perimenopause, urging women to speak up and seek support from their partners.
Drew Barrymore, 50, echoed Berry’s sentiments, describing her own experience as feeling like “sandpaper.” Both women agreed that the lack of intimacy due to physical discomfort can create emotional distance in relationships.
How Halle Berry Is Helping Women Navigate Perimenopause
Berry’s struggles inspired her to take action. She partnered with women’s wellness company Joy Lux to create a lubricating gel and an intimacy device designed to improve pelvic floor health. These products are the first offerings from her company, Respin, which focuses on women’s wellness.
Berry’s goal is to normalize conversations about perimenopause and provide solutions for women experiencing similar challenges.
Why Conversations About Perimenopause Matter
Perimenopause is a natural phase of life, yet it’s rarely discussed openly. Berry and Barrymore highlighted the need for:
More Awareness: Increased education about perimenopause symptoms and treatments.
Better Support: Improved medical and insurance coverage for women’s health issues.
Open Dialogue: Encouraging women to talk to their partners and healthcare providers about their experiences.
Berry stressed that most men want to be supportive but often lack understanding. By fostering open conversations, women can feel less isolated and more empowered to seek help.
Key Takeaways from Halle Berry’s Story
Perimenopause can cause significant physical and emotional challenges, including vaginal dryness and painful intercourse.
Open communication with partners and healthcare providers is crucial.
Halle Berry’s new wellness company, Respin, aims to provide solutions for women navigating perimenopause.
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