Sexual function likely to decline during menopausal transition

Women who are experiencing menopausal transition are at risk of impaired sexual function, a study has found.

The cross-sectional study used data from the prospective population-based Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 and included 2,661 women in their mid-40s. All participants completed a broad questionnaire evaluating health, lifestyle, and life situation, as well as menstrual history and sexual function. Blood samples were collected and analysed to assess follicle stimulating hormone and free androgen index (FAI).

Researchers examined sexual function in relation to climacteric status, self-reported health, FAI, relationship status, smoking, and education level. They were divided into two groups according to their menopause status, defined by follicle-stimulating hormone and menstrual history. Logistic regression models were applied in the analysis.

Results showed that more advanced climacteric status was associated with increased frequency and difficulty level of low sexual desire (odds ratio [OR], 2.80, 95 percent confidence interval [CI], 2.12–3.71 and OR, 3.22, 95 percent CI, 2.43–4.27, respectively), higher frequency and difficulty level of vaginal dryness (OR, 3.83, 95 percent CI, 2.82–5.20 and OR, 3.75, 95 percent CI, 2.75–5.12, respectively), lower frequency of sexual thoughts (OR, 1.34, 95 percent CI, 1.02–1.75), and higher frequency of problems with intercourse (OR, 2.35, 95 percent CI, 1.51–3.66).

Lower FAI and poorer health were also associated with sexual dysfunction.