Many women fear that they will lose their sexual interest and appeal at menopause, but according to recent surveys, more than two-thirds of women remain sexually active throughout life. A woman's attitude toward sex when she is younger is often a predictor of how she will feel later in life. Diminished sexual interest during the menopause years is not unusual, however. Decreased testosterone production in older women and men is known to lessen sex drive, but low self-esteem can also be deadly. While counseling can help to dispel negative feelings about body image and aging, getting treatment to ease the physical discomforts of menopause can go a long way toward increasing sexual enjoyment.
Some women complain of pain during intercourse.
As estrogen declines, the tissues of the vaginal lining become thinner and less elastic and vaginal secretions are less abundant. Using a lubricant or estrogen cream or HRT may remedy the problem. Health experts point out that remaining sexually active is the best way to maintain the healthy function of vaginal tissues. Bladder problems are another common complaint. Declining estrogen diminishes muscle tone and strength in the pelvic area.