A longitudinal study of the effects of free testosterone and other psychosocial variables on sexual function during the natural traverse of menopause.
OBJECTIVE
This study examines the effect of free T levels on sexual function during the natural traverse of menopause. Other psychosocial variables, which may also contribute to change in sexual function, are studied-including participant's job satisfaction, satisfaction with financial resources, confidence in ability to manage symptoms, stressful life events, exercise, body image, and quality of personal relationships.


METHODS
Prospective clinical study.


METHODS
Clinical research center, university hospital.


METHODS
Fifty-seven women between the ages of 45 and 55 years were enrolled at the beginning of the study. Thirty-seven women completed all but the final measurement of free T and 23 completed all aspects of the study at year 1 and year 5.


METHODS
Questionnaires were administered and blood samples obtained in year 1 and year 5.


METHODS
Free T, sexual satisfaction, and other psychosocial variables.


RESULTS
Exercise is the only variable significantly associated with sexual satisfaction. There was a lack of association between free T and sexual satisfaction both at year 1 and year 5.


CONCLUSIONS
Focus on the hormonal aspects of menopause has promoted a disregard of other important psychosocial factors affecting sexual function. This study shows no correlation between T levels and sexual function, whereas exercise is clearly associated with sexual satisfaction. A key area for future research is the effect of lifestyle changes on sexual function in menopausal women.
Gerber
Judith R
JR
Women's Health Care Service, Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05401, USA. Judith.Gerber@vtmednet.org
Johnson
Julia V
JV
Bunn
Janice Y
JY
O'Brien
Susan L
SL
D001294:Attitude to Health; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008593:Menopause / Q000502:physiology* / Q000523:psychology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011584:Psychology; D011788:Quality of Life; D019529:Sexuality / Q000502:physiology* / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013739:Testosterone / Q000097:blood*
D013739:Testosterone