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Regular Sexual Activity May Ease Menopause Symptoms, Research Indicates
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Women experiencing menopause may find relief from uncomfortable symptoms through regular sexual activity, according to a recent study published in the journal Menopause [[SOURCE]]. The research, involving over 900 women aged 40 to 79, suggests a correlation between consistent sexual engagement and a reduction in genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) symptoms, such as vaginal dryness, irritation, and pain.
Key Findings on Sexual Activity and Menopause
the study, conducted by The Menopause Society, explored the relationship between sexual regularity and problematic menopause symptoms. Researchers found that while sexual desire and lubrication tended to decline with age, orgasm and satisfaction remained relatively stable. women who reported sexual activity within the past three months experienced a lower prevalence of GSM-related discomfort.
Did You Know? Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) was defined in 2014 to encompass the various genital, sexual, and urinary symptoms associated with decreased estrogen levels during menopause.
Impact of Estrogen Deficiency
Estrogen deficiency, a hallmark of menopause, can lead to GSM, impacting a woman’s quality of life. Common vulvovaginal problems include itching, burning, pain, decreased lubrication, and changes in skin appearance. The study defined “regular sexual activity” as engagement within the past three months, while activity within the past year (but not the past three months) was considered lower sexual activity.
Sexual Function and Age
The study confirmed that the proportion of women engaging in regular sexual activity decreases with age, aligning with declines in sexual desire, arousal, and lubrication as measured by the Female Sexual Function Index. Though, scores for orgasm and satisfaction did not show the same decline.
Pro Tip: Local low-dose vaginal estrogen therapy is considered a safe and highly effective treatment for alleviating bothersome vulvovaginal symptoms contributing to pain and avoidance of intercourse.
The Importance of Diagnosing and Treating GSM
Dr. Monica Christmas, associate medical director for The Menopause society, emphasized the importance of diagnosing and treating GSM. She noted that only a small percentage (2.9%) of participants reported using hormone therapy, despite its proven benefits. Treatment should be offered to anyone with symptoms, regardless of sexual activity, and normalizing the use of local low-dose estrogen therapy is essential.
| Factor | Observation |
|---|---|
| Regular Sexual Activity | linked to fewer GSM symptoms |
| Sexual Desire & Lubrication | Decreased with age |
| Orgasm & Satisfaction | Remained stable with age |
| Hormone Therapy Use | Low (2.9% of participants) |
The study highlights that while some sexual functions and symptoms change with age, thay may be maintained in women who engage in more regular sexual activity. This underscores the importance of addressing sexual health as part of overall well-being during and after menopause.
What are your thoughts on the role of sexual activity in managing menopause symptoms? Have you experienced any benefits from maintaining an active sex life during menopause?
Understanding Menopause and Sexual Health
Menopause
