Menopause Symptoms? Sex May Help

Regular Sexual Activity Linked to Better menopausal Health, New Study Reveals

New York, NY – June 26, 2025 – A New study published in Menopause, the journal of The Menopause Society, suggests that maintaining regular sexual activity may significantly benefit women experiencing menopause. The research indicates that consistent sexual engagement can mitigate common menopausal symptoms such as vulvar pain, irritation, and dryness, leading to an improved quality of life.

The Study, Involving Over 900 Women Aged 40 To 79 Years, Examined The Correlation between Sexual Regularity And Vulvovaginal Health During Menopause. The findings highlight that women who engage in regular sexual activity are less likely to experience problematic symptoms related to genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM).

the Impact of Sexual Activity on Menopausal Symptoms

During and after menopause, estrogen deficiency can lead to GSM, a condition characterized by genital, sexual, and urinary symptoms. Gsm significantly impacts the frequency of sexual activity among women aged 40 to 70. These symptoms can include:

• Itching
• Burning
• pain
• Decreased lubrication
• Changes in skin appearance

However, The new study suggests regular sexual activity can combat these issues.

key Findings of the Study

Researchers defined “regular sexual activity” as engaging in sexual activity within the past three months,while “lower sexual activity” meant engaging in sexual activity within the past year but not within the last three months.The study revealed several noteworthy points:

• The proportion of women engaging in regular sexual activity decreased significantly with age.
• Female Sexual Function Index scores for sexual desire, arousal, and lubrication also decreased with age.
• Scores for orgasm and satisfaction did not change significantly with age.
• Women with regular sexual activity showed a lower prevalence of gsm-related symptoms.

The results indicated that while some sexual functions and symptoms change with age, they can be maintained through regular sexual activity.

Expert Insights on Managing Menopausal Health

Dr.Monica Christmas, associate medical director at The Menopause Society, emphasized the importance of diagnosing and treating GSM. “The findings highlight the importance of diagnosing and treating GSM,” Dr. Christmas stated. “Only 2.9% of the participants reported using hormone therapy. Local low-dose vaginal estrogen therapy is safe and highly effective at alleviating bothersome vulvovaginal symptoms contributing to pain and avoidance of intercourse.”

Dr. Christmas also noted that treatment should be offered to anyone with symptoms, regardless of sexual activity. “Normalizing use of local low-dose estrogen therapy should be a thing,” she added.

Comparative Analysis: Sexual Activity and Menopause

The table below presents a comparative overview of sexual activity levels and thier impact on menopausal symptoms, according to the study:

Sexual Activity Level	Definition	Impact on GSM Symptoms	Changes in Sexual Function Index
Regular Sexual Activity	Engaging in sexual activity within the past 3 months	Lower prevalence of gsm-related symptoms	Maintained sexual function
lower Sexual activity	Engaging in sexual activity within the past year (but not in the past 3 months)	Higher prevalence of gsm-related symptoms	Decreased sexual desire, arousal, and lubrication

Disclaimer: This table summarizes findings from a single study and should not be taken as definitive medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Did You Know?

According to a 2024 study by the National Institutes of Health, women who maintain an active social life during menopause report fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Pro Tip

Consider incorporating pelvic floor exercises into your routine. These exercises can improve vaginal tone and lubrication, enhancing sexual function and reducing discomfort during menopause.

Evergreen Insights: Long-Term Strategies for Menopausal Health

Maintaining sexual health during menopause involves a multifaceted approach. Beyond regular sexual activity, consider these strategies:

• Hormone Therapy: Discuss hormone therapy options with your healthcare provider to address estrogen deficiency.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Adopt a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques.
• Vaginal Moisturizers and Lubricants: Use vaginal moisturizers regularly to combat dryness and lubricants during sexual activity to reduce discomfort.
• Open Communication: Communicate openly with your partner about your needs and concerns to maintain intimacy and connection.

By integrating these strategies into your daily life, you can proactively manage menopausal symptoms and promote long-term sexual health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Activity and Menopause

1. How Does Regular Sexual Activity Benefit women Experiencing Menopause?
   Regular sexual activity may help limit vulvar pain, irritation, and dryness, common issues during menopause. It can also help maintain sexual function and reduce the prevalence of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) symptoms.
2. What Is Genitourinary syndrome of Menopause (GSM)?
   Gsm is a condition associated with decreased estrogen and sex steroid levels during and after menopause. It includes genital,sexual,and urinary symptoms that can affect a woman’s quality of life.
3. What Symptoms Are Related to Genitourinary Syndrome During Menopause?
   Gsm-related symptoms include itching, burning, pain, decreased lubrication, and changes in the skin appearance of the vulva and vagina.
4. How Was ‘Regular Sexual Activity’ Defined In The Study?
   In the study, ‘regular sexual activity’ was defined as engaging in sexual activity within the past three months.
5. Are There Treatments Available For Genitourinary Syndrome Of Menopause?
   Yes, local low-dose vaginal estrogen therapy is a safe and effective treatment for alleviating vulvovaginal symptoms associated with gsm. Hormone therapy may also be considered.
6. Does Sexual satisfaction Decline with Age?
   Interestingly, while sexual desire, arousal, and lubrication may decrease with age, the study indicated that scores for orgasm and satisfaction did not significantly change with age.
7. Where Can Women Find Further Information About Managing Menopause Symptoms And Maintaining Sexual Health?
   Women can consult healthcare professionals, such as gynecologists or menopause specialists, and refer to resources from organizations like The Menopause Society for comprehensive information and support.

Are you experiencing any of these symptoms? What steps are you taking to maintain your sexual health during menopause? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

Here’s a PAA (People Also Ask) related question, based on the provided article:

Menopause Symptoms? How Sex May Offer Relief

Navigating the menopause transition can be challenging, with a range of physical and emotional symptoms. While hormone replacement therapy and other treatments are frequently discussed, an often-overlooked aspect is the potential role of sexual activity in managing symptoms. This article delves into the surprising ways sex can help alleviate some common menopause symptoms and improve your overall well-being. We’ll explore the benefits, backed by research, and provide practical tips to enhance your intimate life during this significant life change.

The Science Behind Sex and Menopause

Several physiological changes occur during perimenopause and menopause that directly impact sexual health. These include decreased estrogen levels, which can lead to vaginal dryness, vulvar pain, and reduced libido. However, research indicates that engaging in regular sexual activity may help counteract some of these effects.

Key Findings: Sexual Activity and Menopause

According to recent research, regular sexual activity may have positive effects for women experiencing menopause. Here are some of the key findings:

• Reduced Pain and Irritation: A study published in the journal of The Menopause Society suggests that regular sexual activity may limit vulvar pain, irritation, and dryness.
• Improved Blood Flow: Consistent sexual activity stimulates blood flow to the pelvic region, which can help improve vaginal lubrication.
• Maintained Orgasm and Satisfaction: Studies have shown that orgasm and satisfaction do not decline considerably with age.

Benefits of Sex During Menopause

Beyond the physiological effects, there are several other benefits. Sex isn’t just about physical pleasure; it’s also about connection and intimacy,which can significantly improve your overall quality of life during menopause.

Direct Benefits

The benefits of sexual activity during menopause extend beyond the physical. Engaging in regular intercourse can improve your mood, reduce pain, and strengthen relationships.

Here’s a look at some of the direct benefits:

• Increased Vaginal Lubrication: Regular sexual activity can stimulate the production of natural lubrication, combating vaginal dryness.
• Enhanced Blood Flow: Increased blood flow to the pelvic region,helping to maintain vaginal health and sensitivity.
• Mood Boost: Sex releases endorphins, which can improve mood and decrease feelings of anxiety or depression.
• Stronger Intimate relationships: Maintaining intimacy through sex can strengthen emotional bonds with your partner.

Practical Tips for Enhancing Intimacy

Enhancing your sexual health during menopause involves proactive steps.Open communication, exploration, and a few practical adjustments can significantly improve your experiences and ensure a more cozy, enjoyable intimate life.

Practical Tips for enhancing Intimacy

Here are some straightforward tips to help navigate the challenges and embrace intimacy during menopause:

• Communicate Openly: Discuss your needs, concerns, and desires with your partner. Honest communication is key to overcoming challenges.
• Use Lubricants: Over-the-counter lubricants can provide immediate relief from vaginal dryness and are a must-have.
• Experiment with Foreplay: Take your time and incorporate a variety of sensual activities to increase arousal and comfort.
• Consider Hormonal Support: If dryness and pain are severe, talk to your doctor about vaginal estrogen or other hormone therapy options suitable for you.
• Prioritize Intimacy: Even if you’re not in the mood,set aside time,cuddle,and explore other forms of intimacy,such as emotional connection,that are key to keeping the connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sex painful during menopause?

Yes, it commonly can be. Menopause can cause vaginal dryness, making intercourse painful. However, strategies like lubricants and vaginal moisturizers can help mitigate this issue.

Can sex help menopausal symptoms?

Yes, it can. Regular sex can increase vaginal lubrication, improve blood flow, and boost mood, helping manage some symptoms like vaginal dryness and mood swings.

How can I improve my sex life during menopause?

Communicate openness with your partner, lubricate, experiment with foreplay, and talk to your doctor if you are experiencing major problems.