Sexual Health in Menopause

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Women's Health
• Sexual Medicine

Background:

• Sexual function commonly declines with menopause.
• Key symptoms include low sexual desire, poor lubrication, and dyspareunia, often linked to genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM).
• Reduced sex steroid levels are primary drivers, alongside psychological, relational, and comorbidity factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the impact of menopause on sexual function.
• To discuss the underlying causes of menopause-related sexual dysfunction.
• To outline available therapeutic strategies for managing these changes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on menopause and sexual function.
• Analysis of symptom prevalence and contributing factors.
• Overview of current treatment options.

Main Results:

• Prevalence of low sexual desire (40-55%), poor lubrication (25-30%), and dyspareunia (12-45%) reported.
• Declining estrogen and androgen levels significantly impair sexual response.
• Psychological, relational, and comorbid conditions also contribute.

Conclusions:

• Menopause-related sexual dysfunction is multifactorial.
• Individualized treatment, considering symptom severity and patient preference, is crucial.
• Both hormonal and non-hormonal therapies offer management options.