Evaluation of Factors Affecting Sexual Desire During Menopausal Transition and Post Menopause

Abstract

<strong>Background:</strong> One of the most common problems of women especially during transient menopause and post menopause is reduction in sexual desire which affects their social and psychological health. <strong>Objectives:</strong> The present study attempted to evaluate the impact of some personal and social factors, common age-related complaints, and follicular stimulating hormone and estradiol on sexual desire. <strong>Patients and Methods:</strong> This cross-sectional study was conducted on 201 females, aged 45-60 years old, without any history of psychological illness, and not receiving any hormone therapy including estrogen-progesterone. They filled three questionnaires; menopausal rating scale (MRS), symptom checklist 90 and their sexual interests and demographic characteristics. The data were analyzed using Pearson Chi-square tests and logistic regression (using SPSS 18). <strong>Results:</strong> A deceasing sexual desire was observed in 34.7% of the cases. A statistically significant relationship was found between reduced sexual desire and physical complaints and mood changes including anxiety and depression. Women who were widowed or divorced exhibited a significantly higher reduction in sexual desire. There was a significant correlation between sexual satisfaction and sexual desire. However, no significant relationship was observed between sexual desire and hot flashes, dyspareunia and level of estradiol and FSH. <strong>Conclusions:</strong> Mental and physical health of women and their sexual satisfaction play a more effective role in predicting sexual desire, regardless of age and hormonal changes during this period.