Relationship between Postmenopausal Vitamin D Level, Menopausal Symptoms and Sexual Functions

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Nutritional Science
• Women's Health

Background:

• Menopause is associated with various physical and psychological symptoms.
• Female sexual function can be impacted by menopausal changes.
• Vitamin D's role in overall health is increasingly recognized, but its specific impact on menopausal women requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between vitamin D levels and the severity of menopausal symptoms.
• To examine the relationship between vitamin D levels and female sexual function in menopausal women.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted with 303 menopausal women aged 40-70.
• Data were collected using the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI).
• Blood samples were analyzed for vitamin D levels, and logistic and linear regression models were used for statistical analysis.

Main Results:

• Lower vitamin D levels were significantly associated with higher overall menopausal symptom scores (p<0.001).
• Conditions like chronic disease, vaginal discharge, chronic pain, sexual dissatisfaction, and sleep problems correlated with higher MRS scores.
• Lower vitamin D levels (OR: 0.963) and higher MRS somatic/urogenital complaints were linked to increased likelihood of sexual function disorders.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin D levels should be routinely assessed in menopausal women.
• Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels may help alleviate menopausal symptoms.
• Higher vitamin D levels show potential for improving sexual function in menopausal women.