Sex and the mature woman

Menopause is associated with myths about the death of sexual vitality. While menopause causes many women to experience vasomotor instability, problems with osteoporosis, urogenital aging, and increased risk of heart disease, these issues can now be addressed with hormonal replacement strategies or alternative therapies. The menopausal woman today can be relatively comfortable with regard to direct menopausal symptoms of estrogen deficiency as a result of medical therapies. Sexual health and intimacy should also be considered in a holistic approach to the menopausal patient. The mature or postmenopausal woman need not abandon sexual intimacy. This review article presents information about sexual health in women who are perimenopausal or postmenopausal. It explores a variety of medical, psychiatric, and psychological factors that can lead to either sexual health and comfort or sexual dysfunction and dissatisfaction. Given the benefit of good health, a loving relationship, and appropriate medical care, sexual vigor can continue in the mature years of a woman's life.