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Some Origins of Sexual Dissatisfaction at Menopause Caroline Dott, PhD Being depressed and/or anxious can lead to sexual dissatisfaction. Studies show that adequate androgens (primarily the male hormone, testosterone) in females are necessary for normal libido, or sexual interest, in women and men, as well as for a sense of well-being. Studies of male athletes indicate that, in addition to the expected effects of muscular development, androgens also stimulate euphoria, improved self-image, and aggression. We know testosterone levels fall at menopause. In women who have their ovaries removed (surgical menopause) the amount of measured testosterone in the blood decreases by 50%.The question is, how much, and which women could benefit from receiving an appropriate dosage of testosterone? To answer this question, know your own body and level of satisfaction, and how satisfied you want to feel. Assess with your healthcare provider if your best answer is related to you, your husband, or to both of you as a couple addressing this challenge together.TAKE HOME MESSAGE : Sexual drive and satisfaction are improved by adding testosterone to estrogen hormone replacement after surgical menopause. Adding testosterone can also enhance satisfaction in some women who go through natural menopause.If the sexual dissatisfaction is also related to your partner's physical and emotional challenges because he, too, is at menopause-midlife, he may also need to seek appropriate healthcare from an internist or urologist. To reach the best solution, both of you must discuss this challenge in your lives with each other and work it through together. Avoiding or denying it only increases the dissatisfaction and can lead to other couple problems. The important point to know and act upon is that both men's and women's bodies change at menopause-midlife.
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