Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone replacement therapy and sexual health.
Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life when her menstrual cycles cease, and estrogen and progesterone levels decrease. This can lead to various sexual health issues, including vaginal dryness, decreased libido, and painful intercourse. HRT, which involves estrogen and sometimes progesterone, can alleviate these symptoms. It can improve vaginal lubrication and restores sexual desire and function.
Libido:
In menopausal women, declining estrogen levels can lead to reduced libido and vaginal dryness. HRT helps alleviate these symptoms and improves libido. Libido is not solely determined by hormones. Psychological and emotional factors, such as mental health, body image, relationship satisfaction, and stress, also play significant roles. HRT can impacts these factors indirectly, potentially increasing libido.
Vaginal dryness:
HRT increases vaginal lubrication, making intercourse more comfortable and reducing the risk of irritation and pain during sexual activity.
Estrogen maintains the thickness and elasticity of vaginal tissues. When estrogen levels decline, these tissues can become thin, dry, and more prone to irritation and infection. HRT restores and maintains the health of vaginal tissues.
Vaginal dryness causes itching, burning, and general discomfort. HRT can alleviate these symptoms by addressing the underlying cause.