Treatment of the Postmenopausal Woman

Treatment of the Postmenopausal Woman (Third Edition)

Basic and Clinical Aspects
2007, Pages 271-275
Treatment of the Postmenopausal Woman

CHAPTER 20 - Sexuality: Clinical Implications from Epidemiologic Studies

https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-012369443-0/50025-9Get rights and content

Publisher Summary

There is a decline in all aspects of female sexual function with age. A further incremental decline in most aspects of sexual function occurs as women pass through the menopausal transition. This further decline is related to falling estradiol levels. Other factors, such as prior sexual function and partner related factors, have larger effects on women's sexual function than do hormonal factors. However, when relationship factors are stable, declining estradiol has noticeable effects. Women who have undergone surgical menopause with removal of ovaries will be more at risk of sexual dysfunction than those with intact reproductive organs. This chapter demonstrates that hormonal change is but one aspect of the many factors that affect sexual function. When a mid-aged woman reports sexual problems, the clinician should take a detailed history involving the woman and her partner—as individuals and together. Given the range of factors affecting sexual functioning and the significantly more powerful effect of partner factors compared with that of hormonal factors, a broadly based biopsychosocial approach should be used. Steroids such as estrogen, progestins, and androgens have subtle but important effects on female sexual functioning. These effects can be over-ridden by powerful psychosocial factors, such as a new relationship or past experiences, which may influence sexual function. An individual approach is needed to sort out the relative role of these factors for any particular woman so that appropriate therapy can be planned.

References (0)

Cited by (0)

View full text