Menopause often brings changes that can impact a woman’s sexual well-being, including lower estrogen levels, reduced sexual desire, vaginal dryness, and discomfort during intercourse. These factors can make sexual experiences less enjoyable and lead to a common issue: decreased libido. Over half of menopausal women report a significant drop in sexual desire, influenced by biological, psychological, interpersonal, and cultural factors.
Psychological challenges like anxiety, depression, and body image concerns during menopause can further affect sexuality. Relationship dynamics, such as communication and partner intimacy, also play a critical role. Lastly, societal and cultural norms shape attitudes toward aging and sexuality, particularly in conservative settings.
The authors of a new study explored how health, partner relationships, and cultural attitudes influence the sexual interest of postmenopausal women in Malaysia, aiming to better understand their needs and promote strategies to support their sexual health in a culturally sensitive manner.
To do this, they surveyed 293 postmenopausal women in Malaysia to understand factors influencing sexual interest. Participants, aged 45 and older, were recruited from a gynecology or primary care clinic and met specific criteria, including having no menstrual periods for at least 12 months and a spouse or sexual partner. Researchers used a bilingual questionnaire to assess sexual interest, focusing on desire, responsiveness, and satisfaction. Participants also evaluated their own and their partner’s sexual values, which were scored based on importance.
The study revealed several key findings regarding factors influencing sexual interest in postmenopausal women. Firstly, women aged 45 to 55 demonstrated higher sexual interest compared to those in older age groups. Physical fitness also played a significant role, as both women and their spouses who were physically fit or moderately fit reported greater levels of sexual interest.
Stress levels had a notable impact; women experiencing normal or mild to moderate stress exhibited higher sexual interest than those facing severe stress. Additionally, higher household income was associated with increased sexual interest. Lastly, women and their spouses who placed greater importance on sexual values were more likely to report higher sexual interest.
The study also revealed gender-based disparities in sexual attitudes, with women rating their sexual value lower than their partners’. Addressing societal norms and encouraging open communication within relationships could help foster healthier attitudes toward sexuality.
More than half of the participants (58.0%) did not use menopausal symptom treatments, and lifestyle modifications (18.8%) and traditional medicine/supplements (15.7%) were more common than hormone replacement therapy (7.5%). Concerns about hormone therapy, including side effects and weight gain, highlight the need for better education on its benefits and risks.
In conclusion, this study sheds light on the multifaceted factors that influence sexual interest in postmenopausal women, emphasizing the significance of physical fitness, stress management, and shared sexual values in maintaining sexual well-being. It highlights the need for culturally sensitive approaches that consider the unique challenges women face during menopause, such as societal expectations and relationship dynamics.
The findings also underscore the importance of education on menopause management, including the benefits and risks of hormone therapy, to empower women to make informed decisions about their health. Moving forward, healthcare providers and public health initiatives must prioritize open communication, reduce stigma surrounding menopause, and support strategies that enhance sexual health in postmenopausal women, particularly in conservative communities. By addressing these factors, we can help improve the overall quality of life and sexual well-being for women navigating this life stage.
For more information on this topic, please read these publications from the ISSM Journals: The Journal of Sexual Medicine, Sexual Medicine Reviews, and Sexual Medicine Open Access:
References:
Wong, L. P., Cora, C., Andrew, L. L., Faisal, A. M. D. A., Hasbi, A. S., Puujaa, E., Alias, H., Moli, O. T., Premitha, D., & Tan, K. M. (2024). Factors influencing sexual interest in postmenopausal Asian women. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 21(11), 1011–1019. https://doi.org/10.1093/jsxmed/qdae117
You may also be interested in...
Blog
The Gynogram: Paving the Way for Better Postmenopausal Sex?
July 6, 2021Other Popular Articles
What Is Jelqing, and Does It Actually Work?
The term “jelqing” refers to a set of penis stretching exercises that some believe can make the penis bigger. Although the practice has gained attention and popularity in blogs and internet forums in recent years, there is no scientific evidence that it is an effective way to permanently increase the size of one’s penis. In fact, in some cases, jelqing may actually cause damage to the penis, so it is a good idea to get all the facts before setting off to try it.
What Is Sensate Focus and How Does It Work?
Sensate focus is a technique used to improve intimacy and communication between partners around sex, reduce sexual performance anxiety, and shift away from ingrained, goal-oriented sexual patterns that may not be serving a couple.
What Is the Average Penis Size?
If you have ever wondered how your penis compares to others in terms of size, you are not alone. Many men are curious to know how their penises stack up compared to the average. Unfortunately, general curiosity can sometimes give way to full-on obsession and anxiety about penis size. This can be an unhealthy and often unnecessary fixation, especially because most men who think their penises are too small have perfectly normal-sized penises.
What Is Edging and Why Do People Do It?
Edging is the practice of stopping sexual stimulation before reaching orgasm to prolong a sexual experience. The term stems from the concept of approaching the metaphorical “edge” of orgasm but stopping before going over the edge.
Can Sex Reduce Menstrual Cramps?
The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.
Having sex while you experience menstrual cramps is healthy and can provide significant benefits. While it might not be the first activity that comes to mind when your PMS or period cramping begins, many people enjoy sex to reduce menstrual cramps, experience increased pleasure and benefit from other advantages. Learn more about having sex while menstrual cramps are happening and how it can help your body.
The Sex-Positivity Movement: What it Means to Be Sex-Positive
You may have heard references to “being sex-positive” or “the sex-positivity movement” in popular culture. Various celebrities have brought attention to this movement by speaking out about their beliefs and personal experiences regarding sexuality, sexual health, body positivity, “slut-shaming,” and sexual assault.
