Sexuality: Clinical implications from epidemiologic studies

Abstract

There is a decline in all aspects of female sexual function with age. A further incremental decline in most aspects of sexual function occurs as women pass through the menopausal transition. This further decline is related to falling estradiol levels. Other factors, such as prior sexual function and partner related factors, have larger effects on women's sexual function than do hormonal factors. However, when relationship factors are stable, declining estradiol has noticeable effects. Women who have undergone surgical menopause with removal of ovaries will be more at risk of sexual dysfunction than those with intact reproductive organs. This chapter demonstrates that hormonal change is but o..