What happens to women sexually as they go through menopause?
Many women experience a change in their sexual function during the years immediately before and after menopause. This is primarily a result of a decrease in estrogen and testosterone levels. As women age, they also experience decreased blood flow to their genitals. Common complaints include a loss of desire, diminished responsiveness and low sexual arousal. Vaginal atrophy, which involves thinning, drying and irritation of the vaginal lining, causes significant distress for the menopausal woman. In addition, the interplay of psychological, cultural and interpersonal factors all contribute to the aging woman’s sexual experience. Unfortunately, our culture does not encourage or acknowledge sexuality in the older woman. But sex later in life has its benefits. A woman no longer has to worry about becoming pregnant. She can enjoy her partner and the empty nest — often for the first time.
