What women love about sex changes over time. If you’re in your perimenopause or menopause, you’ve likely noticed that what used to work in your 20s doesn’t always hit the same way now.
And that’s okay. It’s more than okay—it means you’re evolving, and so is your relationship with sex.
This blog is for you. For middle-aged women who want sex to feel good, mean something, or just make sense with where you are in life.
So, what do women love about sex? Let’s get into it.
If you want a head start, Smooch and Oooh are the two tools women turn to most when claiming what they actually love.
Mindset & Confidence
1. Feeling confident in your body
What women love about sex often starts with how you feel about your own body. Confidence about owning your body as it is today. When you feel good in your skin—wrinkles, curves, stretch marks, and all—you’re more likely to enjoy physical touch.
2. Expressing your needs and desires openly
Sex gets better when you say what you want. Speaking up about what feels good (and what doesn’t) is one of the most empowering things you can do. Partners aren’t mind readers.
3. Low stress levels before intimacy
Stress is a major mood killer. One thing women love about sex is when it happens in a calm, unrushed space. When your nervous system slows down, your body becomes more open to pleasure.
4. Being present in the moment (mindfulness during sex)
What women love about sex is being fully in it—mind, body, and heart. When you tune into the moment, even the smallest touch can feel electric.
[pullquote]What women love most: pleasure that is hers. On her terms. In her time.[/pullquote]
Communication & Emotional Connection
5. Open sexual communication
Being able to talk honestly about what feels good. Even a simple “slower” or “right there” can change everything.
6. Emotional safety with your partner
The feeling that you can show up as your full self without fear. When you feel safe, seen, and accepted, sex becomes a connection.
7. Positive feedback and encouragement during sex
Compliments, eye contact, and affirming words can build connection and confidence in the moment.
8. Discussing fantasies and boundaries
Knowing they can safely express what they want and where the line is. Speaking of fantasies, the Moon Anal Training Kit is great for couples who want to try something new.
Foreplay & Sensation
9. Extended foreplay for arousal
Foreplay that’s slow, intentional, and unrushed. For a lot of women, it’s the main event.
10. Massages to build sexual tension
What women love about sex isn’t just the destination, but the build-up.
11. Exploring your body (solo or together)
Knowing your own body makes partnered sex way better. If you're curious about toys, try the Shoop Gentle Dual Massager, Woosh Warming Wand, or Boom Dual-End Wand. The Spice Things Up bundle helps bring back your spark.
[product:smooch]
12. Clitoral and varied stimulation
72% of women prefer direct clitoral stimulation to reach orgasm. These clitoral stimulator toys are must-haves: Smooch Sonic Stimulator, Oooh Palm Massager, and Woo Bullet.
Mental & Emotional Stimulation
13. Mental arousal
Sex starts in the brain. When you allow yourself to think about what turns you on, your body often follows.
14. Dirty talk or erotic talk
Words matter. Soft phrases like “I love how you touch me” can create intimacy.
15. Roleplay & scenario play
What women love about sex is when it doesn’t feel like a routine. Roleplay gives you a break from everyday life.
16. Incorporating toys/lingerie/erotic media
What women love about sex often includes trying new things. These tools aren’t about replacing your partner; they’re about expanding your pleasure.
Physical Variety & Adventure
17. Trying new positions
Different angles and movements can change how things feel completely.
18. Introducing light BDSM or dominance/submission
Light BDSM can be as simple as one partner taking the lead while the other lets go. As long as you talk about boundaries and keep it rooted in trust.
19. Sensual games or board/card games
Adult games made for couples can bring a sense of fun and lightheartedness to sex.
20. Toys and sensual tools
Sex toys aren’t a replacement for intimacy—they’re a tool to enhance it.
[products:smooch,oooh,woo]
Sensory & Atmosphere
21. Creating the right mood
Dim lighting, soft music, and a clean, cozy space can make a big difference.
22. Aromas, tastes, textures
Engaging more senses creates a richer, more enjoyable time.
23. Blindfolds and light sensory deprivation
Removing one sense can make the others feel more intense.
Timing & Natural Rhythms
24. Responsive desire—going with the flow
Many women experience responsive desire—arousal shows up after intimacy begins, not before.
25. Hormonal changes
As we age, hormones shift—and that can affect everything from desire to energy to lubrication.
Orgasm & Physical Release
26. Multiple orgasms and more powerful orgasms
Women often don’t need a long recovery period between orgasms.
27. Natural enhancers to amplify orgasm
Deep breathing, stronger pelvic floor muscles, mood-setting scents.
28. Exploring different types of orgasms
Clitoral, G-spot, and blended orgasms all feel different. Learn these different pleasure points.
Evolution & Change Over Time
29. Desire evolves—and that’s normal
Desire isn’t fixed. It shifts with time, health, relationships, and life stages.
30. Erotic plasticity
Your sexuality can shift based on what’s going on in your life.
31. Disconnecting from the “male default” sex model
What women love about sex often includes slowing down, feeling emotionally safe, and enjoying non-linear pleasure.
Practical Tips & Habits
32. Schedule intimacy
It may not sound sexy, but scheduling intimacy can actually help bring the spark back.
33. Self-exploration to know yourself better
The more connected you are to yourself, the easier it becomes to share that joy with someone else.
[cta]
Conclusion
Sex in midlife isn’t about doing more, being perfect, or following some magazine checklist. It’s about feeling like yourself.
You deserve pleasure. You deserve connection. You deserve to feel good, wanted, and at home in your body.

