Female sexual dysfunction and use of hormone therapy in postmenopausal women.

Sexual dysfunction is a common problem for women of all ages and remains an important aspect of women's health following menopause. For postmenopausal women, the evaluation and management of sexual dysfunction differs from that of younger women because the etiology is often linked to the diminished levels of sex hormones. Female sexual function is highly complex and deeply influenced by nonhormonal factors such as emotional intimacy and culture. Our understanding of this important area of women's health remains inadequate, and much more research needs to be performed before definitive conclusions can be made. Existing data allow for some preliminary observations. It appears that lack of estrogen may lead to sexual dysfunction primarily by causing vaginal atrophy and dyspareunia. These symptoms may be treated by systemic or local estrogen therapy. Conversely, androgen deficiency appears to be most strongly linked to diminished sexual desire. Growing evidence indicates that administration of androgens may be beneficial in such situations. Other agents that use sex hormone receptors, such as selective estrogen receptor modulators and tibolone, also may affect sexual function.