Effects of Physical Exercise on Sexual Function and Quality of Sexual Life Related to Menopausal Symptoms in Peri- and Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review.

María del Carmen Carcelén-Fraile,Esther Díaz-Mohedo,Fidel Hita-Contreras,Agustín Aibar-Almazán,David Cruz-Díaz,María Teresa Redecillas-Peiró,Antonio Martínez-Amat

doi:10.3390/ijerph17082680

Abstract

During the menopausal period, sexual dysfunction is associated with the development or worsening of psychological conditions, causing deterioration in women’s mental health and quality of life. This systematic review aims to investigate the effects of different exercise programs on sexual function and quality of sexual life related to menopausal symptoms. With this purpose, a systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Plus. A total of 1787 articles were identified in the initial search and 11 prospective studies (including 8 randomized controlled trials) were finally included. The most commonly recommended training programs are based on exercising pelvic floor muscles, as they seem to have the largest impact on sexual function. Mind–body disciplines also helped in managing menopausal symptoms. However, as far as the most traditional programs were concerned, aerobic exercises showed inconsistent results and resistance training did not seem to convey any benefits. Although positive effects have been found, evidence supporting physical exercise as a strategy to improve sexual function and quality of sexual life related to menopausal symptoms is limited, and further studies on this topic are needed.

Highlights

Menopause is a natural period that all women experience with age
Prospective studies that investigate the effects of a physical exercise intervention on sexual function, and the quality of sexual life related to menopausal symptoms in peri- and postmenopausal women were eligible
Quality of sexual life related to menopausal symptoms was evaluated through the sexual domain of the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL), one item of the modified Kupperman Index (KI), the Hot Flush

Summary

Introduction

Menopause is a natural period that all women experience with age. It involves a complex interaction of genetic, biological, and psychological factors [1]. The decrease in estrogen levels produces a series of symptoms that impair quality of life (QOL), affecting the physical, mental, and sexual health of women [2]. Regarding the latter, the menopause transition can impair sexual relations by affecting the biological systems involved in normal sexual response [3]. Sexuality is defined as a state of physical, psychological, social, and emotional well-being that is related to sexual desire [4]. Given that women currently spend a third or more of their lives after menopause, it is essential to pay attention to their health problems and sexual difficulties and establish strategies to prevent a reduction of sexual activity in women [6]

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Conclusion