(078) Double Pause: Understanding Couple Intimacy – A Quantitative Survey
Authors: A Jannini E , Giraldi A , Vignesh S O , Hassan T A 
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Midlife physical, psychological, and relational changes, untreated diseases [erectile dysfunction, (ED) in men and vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) in women) affect the sexual health in both the partners in relationship. Couples with sexual intimacy concerns only seldom approach a health care professional (HCP) to seek help. This quantitative study was designed to identify the issues in couple intimacy among middle and old-aged participants.

Objective

To gain a deeper understanding in the following areas: explore the perceptions and attitudes towards intimacy later in life, understand issues relating to intimacy, including menopause and andropause, and identify the role and comfort levels of communication with partners and HCPs.

Methods

This prospective cross-sectional observational study was done on people who were in relationship and aged between 40 to 75 years. Participants across six countries the United states (USA), the United kingdom (UK), Italy, France, Germany, and Spain (approximately 1,000 per country in addition to 100 men with ED per country) were included in this survey. The questionnaire included questions about perceptions towards intimacy and how this has changed and might change in the future, symptoms they may have relating to intimacy issues, and whom they speak to when they have concerns in these areas. This online survey was conducted between 2nd June and 13th June 2023.

Results

A total of 6,091 people completed the survey. Additionally, a total of 630 men suffering from ED also participated in the survey. Overall, across all the six countries, couples aged 65 to 75 years (n=1977, 33%) participated the highest, followed by 55 to 64 years (n=1716, 28%) and 45 to 54 years (n=1662, 27%). Couple intimacy was defined by trust (73%) and mutual respect (71%) by most in Central Europe, compared to physical touch in the UK (74%) and USA (73%). Women put more emphasis on trust (77%) and mutual respect (74%) when defining intimacy, whilst men cite sexual intimacy more (65%). In their current relationship, participants reported that emotional intimacy was deemed more important (93%) and more satisfying (80%), than physical intimacy. 50% of the respondents felt that physical intimacy worsens with age. Though the majority believe there are ways and need help to improve their sexual lives (58%). Physical health issues (32%), work stress (36%), and lack of time (22%) were the few of the issues that impacted couple intimacy. A third of men (39%) and women (34%) reported that they wouldn’t speak to a HCP about andropause or menopause symptoms. Most (68% in 55–64 years) of the men were not aware of andropause or its symptoms. 43% of respondents agreed to consult HCPs for more information on couple intimacy.

Conclusions

Physical health issues, age and the lack of awareness about menopause and andropause are the key factors impacting couples' sexual intimacy. HCPs should strengthen their relationship with patients to help them un-pause their sex life and to open conversation spaces and a trustworthy tool to empower couples facing hormonal changes and finally to improve their sexual health.

Disclosure

Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: Viatris Inc.

Clarification: Industry initiated, executed and funded study.

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Viatris Inc.