An overview of vulvovaginal atrophy-related sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women

ABSTRACT

Menopause and the climacteric period are associated with adverse risk factors for the development of vulvovaginal atrophy-related sexual dysfunction. Sexual dysfunction is a common problem in postmenopausal women; often underdiagnosed; inadequately treated; frequently overlooked; and most often impairing the quality of life of these women. To provide clinicians with current information on vulvovaginal atrophy-related sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women. This study is a literature review on vulvovaginal atrophy-related sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women. Relevant publications were identified through a search of PubMed and Medline; selected references; journals; and textbooks on this topic; and were included in the review. The prevalence of female sexual dysfunction increases with age. It is a common multidimensional problem for postmenopausal women that alter the physiological; biochemical; psychological; and sociocultural environment of a woman. Menopause-related sexual dysfunction may not be reversible without therapy. Estrogen therapy is the most effective option and is the current standard of care for vulvovaginal atrophy-related sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women. Sexual dysfunction is a common multidimensional problem for postmenopausal women and often impairs the quality of life of these women. Estrogen preparations are the most effective treatment. Selective estrogen receptor modulators; vaginal dehydroepiandrostenedione; vaginal testosterone; and tissue-selective estrogen complexes are promising therapies; but further studies are required to confirm their role; efficacy; and safety