New research suggests that frequent sexual activity may help women mitigate pain and other symptoms associated with menopause, including those related to genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). The study, involving over 900 women aged 40-79, reinforces the connection between sexual health and overall well-being during and after menopause.
What is GSM?
GSM is a condition caused by estrogen decline during menopause, leading to a range of symptoms. These include vaginal dryness, itching, burning, pain during intercourse, and urinary problems. Left untreated, GSM can significantly reduce quality of life and even impact longevity.
The study categorized women based on sexual activity: those active in the past 3 months were considered “regular,” while those active within the past year but not recently were labeled “lower activity.”
Key Findings
The research confirms what many women experience: sexual function declines with age. Scores for desire, arousal, and lubrication decreased notably as women aged. Surprisingly, however, orgasm and satisfaction levels remained relatively stable.
Women who maintained regular sexual activity reported a lower prevalence of GSM symptoms. This suggests that consistent sexual function may help preserve vaginal health and reduce discomfort.
Why Does This Matter?
The findings highlight a critical, often overlooked aspect of menopause care. The study revealed only 2.9% of participants used hormone therapy, despite its proven effectiveness. Dr. Monica Christmas, associate medical director for The Menopause Society, emphasizes the need for broader treatment access:
“Local low-dose vaginal estrogen therapy is safe and highly effective at alleviating bothersome vulvovaginal symptoms. Treatment should be offered to anyone with symptoms, regardless of sexual activity.”
The message is clear: addressing GSM is crucial for women’s health, and normalizing access to effective treatments like low-dose estrogen therapy is essential. Ignoring these symptoms not only causes unnecessary suffering but also potentially shortens life expectancy.
Ultimately, this study underscores the importance of open conversations between women and healthcare providers about sexual health during menopause.
