TLDR Menopause often leads to lower sexual desire and discomfort during sex, but treatment should be personalized and only if it bothers the woman.
The document from 2014 examines the effects of menopause on women's sexual health, noting that changes in sexual desire and discomfort during intercourse are common, with 52% of menopausal women reporting low sexual desire and up to 50% experiencing vaginal discomfort. It discusses the multifactorial influences on sexuality, including aging, health, stress, and hormonal changes. Studies like the SWAN study and the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project illustrate the decline in sexual function with age. The document also reviews treatments for sexual dysfunction, such as hormone therapy, testosterone therapy, and other interventions like lubricants and counseling. It emphasizes the importance of a personalized approach to treatment, considering the complex interplay of factors affecting sexual health in menopausal women. Despite the decline in sexual function, the potential for sexual satisfaction remains, and healthcare providers are encouraged to address sexual dysfunction sensitively and only intervene if the patient is distressed by their symptoms.
11 citations,
September 2012 in “Journal of obstetrics and gynaecology Canada” Testosterone therapy seems safe for short-term use in postmenopausal women with low sexual desire, but more research on long-term effects is needed.
24 citations,
March 2003 in “Best Practice & Research Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” Androgens, male hormones, play a role in both men and women's health, and testosterone therapy can help women with low levels, but it's not suitable for pregnant or lactating women, or those with certain conditions.
32 citations,
March 2019 in “Climacteric” Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) can harm women's sexual health, and they may benefit from hormone therapy and counseling.
61 citations,
January 2017 in “Human Reproduction Open” The review recommends hormone replacement therapy for women with premature ovarian insufficiency to manage symptoms and protect health, with specific approaches for different groups.
36 citations,
January 2014 in “The Journal of Sexual Medicine” Testosterone may help increase sexual events for women with low libido due to antidepressants.
90 citations,
December 2007 in “Current Oncology” Non-hormonal treatments should be used first for sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal breast cancer patients on aromatase inhibitors, with hormones as a second option.
254 citations,
September 2014 in “Menopause” The NAMS 2014 recommendations guide healthcare providers on treating health issues in midlife women, emphasizing individualized care and informed decision-making.
