Q12. Why do women lose interest in sex during the menopause?

A12. The main reason for this is vaginal dryness. The female hormone oestrogen ensures that the vagina is supple, strong and lubricated but this changes once levels of this hormone fall.

A drop in oestrogen levels means that the walls of the vagina become thinner, drier and less supple than before. The vagina is smaller and may start to droop and there is an increased risk of infection.

Dry tissues of the vagina mean that penetration is uncomfortable or painful during sex. As a result of this the woman becomes apprehensive at the thought of sex and loses interest.

Decreased oestrogen levels also mean a reduced sex drive which is another reason for a lack of interest.

Find out more in our menopause symptoms section.

FAQ:

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Menopause FAQs

1. What is the menopause?
2. What age do you start the menopause?
3. What is a ‘premature menopause?’
4. What is the ‘perimenopause?’
5. What is the ‘premenopause?’
6. What are symptoms of the menopause?
7. Can you become pregnant whilst going through the menopause?
8. Why do you put on weight during the menopause?
9. What are hot flushes?
10. My mother started the menopause at the age of 46, will I do the same?

11. What are mood swings?
12. Why do women lose interest in sex during the menopause?
13. Can you still be sexually active after the menopause?
14. Why do women fear the menopause?
15. What is HRT?
16. Why is there so much controversy around HRT?
17. What treatment is available for the menopause?
18. How likely am I to develop osteoporosis?
19. How long does the menopause last?
20. What is the ‘postmenopause?’

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