Paschou, S.A., Athanasiadou, K.I., Hafford-Letchfield, T. et al. (16 more authors) (2024) Sexual health and wellbeing and the menopause: An EMAS clinical guide. Maturitas, 189. 108055. ISSN 0378-5122
Abstract
Introduction: Sexual health and wellbeing are significant aspects of quality of life. However, taking a sexual history is often avoided in medical practice, leaving a void in management and awareness. As the menopause can have a major impact on sexual health, it is imperative that healthcare providers are appropriately trained in sexual health and wellbeing and the aligned disciplines in order to achieve optimal care.
Aim: To provide an evidence-based clinical guide for the assessment and management of sexual problems at the menopause and beyond.
Materials and methods: Review of the literature and consensus of expert opinion.
Results and conclusion: The assessment of sexual problems includes history taking, examination and laboratory investigation (if indicated), and occasionally the use of specific validated questionnaires. Management of sexual problems requires a multidimensional approach using biopsychosocial measures. Medical management and psychosexual counselling include pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, and sex therapy and psychoeducation. Furthermore, perimenopausal women should be advised about the need for contraception if they wish to avoid pregnancy. Also, sexually transmitted diseases can be acquired at any age. To conclude, taking a sexual history should be incorporated into medical practice and healthcare providers should be appropriately trained to assess and manage sexual problems at the menopause and beyond.
Metadata
Item Type: | Article |
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Authors/Creators: |
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Copyright, Publisher and Additional Information: | © 2024 Elsevier B.V. |
Keywords: | Menopause; Sexual diversity; Sexual dysfunction; Sexual health and wellbeing; Sexual problems; Women's health |
Dates: |
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Institution: | The University of Sheffield |
Academic Units: | The University of Sheffield > Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health (Sheffield) > Health Sciences School (Sheffield) |
Depositing User: | Symplectic Sheffield |
Date Deposited: | 16 Sep 2024 14:31 |
Last Modified: | 16 Sep 2024 14:31 |
Status: | Published |
Publisher: | Elsevier BV |
Refereed: | Yes |
Identification Number: | 10.1016/j.maturitas.2024.108055 |
Related URLs: | |
Sustainable Development Goals: | |
Open Archives Initiative ID (OAI ID): | oai:eprints.whiterose.ac.uk:217235 |