FROM THE EDITOR

Toward better sex in menopause

As caregivers to menopausal women, we are sometimes asked by patients to “fix” their sexual problems. If menopause is caused by a decline in hormone levels, then we should be able to use hormones to fix disorders of sexual response associated with menopause. Right?

No. Regrettably for those who seek a fix, sexuality is more complicated than that.

In this issue of Menopausal Medicine, James A. Simon, MD, CCD, NCMP, reproductive endocrinologist and trained sexual counselor, discusses his approach to the diagnosis and treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder. HSDD tends to peak during menopause, and might affect a surprising number of your patients.

So many disorders and medications common in women in this age group can cause sexual dysfunction; simply recognizing what they are can have a positive impact on a patient’s problem. Taking the time to understand the nature of the problem may also pay off. Dr. Simon’s article offers a strategy for recognition and understanding.

There are no FDA-approved products for treating female sexual dysfunction; potentially effective medications are available off-label, however, and other drugs are on the horizon. Again, Dr. Simon reviews the options in his discussion.

In short, menopause need not mark the end of a satisfying sex life.

Sexuality, Reproduction & Menopause ©2012 Quadrant HealthCom Inc.