SEXUALITY IN PERIMENOPAUSAL AND POSTMENOPAUSAL WOMEN

Document Type

Article

Date of Original Version

1-1-1988

Abstract

This article reviews psychosocial and biological aspects of the effects of menopause on sexuality. Sexuality is conceptualized as having multiple dimensions including desire, arousal, and orgasm. Population studies have revealed that postmenopausal status is associated with decline in these components of sexual functioning. While it is probable that psychological response to menopause affects sexual functioning, little research has addressed this issue. Considerable research has addressed the possible relationship between sexuality and menopausal hormone changes. Some research shows that low estrogen levels are associated with diminished sexual response and that estrogen replacement produces enhanced sexual response. Other studies, however, do not show this. Testosterone level is more clearly related to at least some measures of sexuality. Issues for future research are discussed. Copyright © 1988, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved

Publication Title, e.g., Journal

Psychology of Women Quarterly

Volume

12

Issue

4

Share

COinS