Sexual Changes During Menopause Take Most Women by Surprise

More than two thirds of women between the ages of 50-70 have suffered from symptoms that affected their ability to be intimate with their partners, and the majority of those woman say they never anticipated physical changes would occur, according to a newly released "Sex, Menopause & Relationships" survey, sponsored by Duramed Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and conducted by Harris Interactive.

The survey also revealed the menopause-induced sexual issues women in that age group, and in partnered heterosexual relations, were most likely to face. Of those who reported experiencing physical problems that diminished sexual frequency and enjoyment, 72 percent said that they suffered from vaginal dryness, 70 percent from low libido, and 34 percent from pain with sex.

The question is, with so many women facing menopause-induced sexual challenges, why is there so little discussion about it? "There seems to be a lack of knowledge about the vaginal symptoms of menopause in women and the treatments available," says David B. Schwartz, M.D. practicing Obstetrics & Gynecology at Christ Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio, who believes that male sexual issues take center stage because of widely advertised erectile dysfunction drugs. "Sadly, we still live in a male dominated society when it comes to sexual issues. Women's challenges are taboo, and they should be discussed just as much."

Dr. Schwartz believes that a woman should start gathering information when she is in her early forties, before menopause begins. Since her estrogen supply will likely begin to diminish at this point, he recommends asking her gynecologist: "What is going to happen to my body as I transition to the menopause? How will the lack of estrogen affect my ability to maintain a healthy relationship with my spouse?"

We suggest that a woman discuss the physical changes of menopause with her partner as well. Of the men and women with symptoms who have discussed those symptoms with their spouses, a majority (75 percent) reported overall satisfaction in their relationships. That is not surprising to us, as we so strongly believe that honest, compassionate communication is the foundation of a relationship that keeps improving over the years. If a couple wants to continue having a good sexual relationship as they age, it is imperative that they are open with one another about any physical challenges they are currently experiencing or think they may face in the future. This dialogue is more important now than ever before, because there are simple and effective things that can be done.

Stay Healthy During Menopause As your body adjusts to the many changes of menopause, it's important to take action and maintain good health.

The womenshealth.gov website suggests how to help you stay healthy during menopause:

Eat a balanced, nutritious diet that's low in calories.
Get a minimum of two-and-a-half hours per week of moderate aerobic exercise.If you're a smoker, quit.Visit your gynecologist for an annual checkup and any recommended screening tests.Talk to your doctor about any immunizations you may need.