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Sex and the menopause

The other major area that is affected is the genitourinary tract. Decreased oestrogen can lead to thinning of the vaginal lining and decreased lubrication, and this may lead to substantial pain during intercourse. As painful intercourse is seldom a turn-on, it might lead to a decline in the desire for making love.

The menopause shouldn’t affect the libido itself. 60% of women experience no change in libido, 20% experience a decrease and in 20% of cases, the libido improves.

The pelvic floor muscles relax progressively and this may lead to urinary incontinence. Other problems that may arise are frequent bladder and vaginal infections.

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