A recent study has found that women who maintain regular sexual activity experience significantly fewer symptoms linked to genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), including vaginal dryness, pain, and irritation. The findings, published in the journal Menopause and highlighted by The Menopause Society, provide new insights into the management of menopause-related discomfort for women aged 40 to 79—an age range relevant to millions of Thai women currently navigating the physical and emotional challenges of menopause. (Neuroscience News)
Menopause is a universal biological transition that affects all women, but its experience varies widely depending on health, lifestyle, and cultural background. In Thailand, where the median age continues to rise and the population of women over 40 is rapidly increasing (UN Thailand data), the burden of menopause symptoms such as GSM can have far-reaching effects on quality of life, relationships, and even economic participation. The search for effective, accessible relief methods is therefore of paramount importance not just for individual women, but also for families and society at large.
The study surveyed more than 900 women aged between 40 and 79, analyzing their sexual habits and the incidence of GSM symptoms—defined as issues like vaginal dryness, irritation, pain during intercourse, and associated changes in genital health. Interestingly, while scores for sexual desire and arousal were found to decline with age—as measured by the internationally recognized Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI)—orgasm and overall sexual satisfaction remained stable over the decades. Furthermore, women who were sexually active—defined as engaging in sexual activity within the past three months—reported far fewer cases of GSM-related discomfort compared to those who were not sexually active within the same period.
Researchers suggest that regular sexual activity itself may help preserve genital health throughout and after the menopausal transition. The study authors point to a low prevalence of GSM symptoms among women who continue to be sexually active, hinting at a possible protective effect that goes beyond hormone-replacement options. These findings are particularly striking given that only 2.9% of the women in the study reported using hormone therapy, despite its long-established effectiveness in combating GSM. This treatment gap may reflect a broader trend across Asia, including Thailand, where use of hormone replacement therapy is often limited by concerns about risks, lack of information, or cultural taboos around discussing sexual health openly (Menopause Society).
Quoting an official spokesperson for The Menopause Society, “The findings highlight the importance of diagnosing and treating GSM. Only 2.9% of the participants reported using hormone therapy. Local low-dose vaginal estrogen therapy is safe and highly effective at alleviating bothersome vulvovaginal symptoms contributing to pain and avoidance of intercourse.” The official went on to stress, “Although optimal sexual health is integral to overall well-being, it is also imperative to recognize the effect these symptoms can have on women who aren’t sexually active. Treatment should be offered to anyone with symptoms, whether engaging in sexual activity or not. Normalizing use of local low-dose estrogen therapy should be a thing.”
The implications for Thailand are significant. Thai culture has traditionally viewed menopause and associated sexual health topics as private matters, often discussed only within family or with close friends, and rarely with healthcare providers. Yet, as women’s life expectancy in Thailand continues to rise—now averaging well into the mid-70s (World Bank)—it is clear that postmenopausal life can span decades. GSM, if left unaddressed, may negatively impact mental health, marital satisfaction, and overall wellness.
From a historical perspective, discussions about female sexuality and aging have often been shrouded in silence in Thai society, with older generations internalizing discomfort as a “normal” part of getting older. However, with the influence of globalization, digital communities, and greater access to women’s health resources, contemporary Thai women are increasingly seeking information and demanding evidence-based, non-judgmental care. The new study provides an evidence-based rationale for healthcare practitioners in Thailand to initiate conversations about sexual health during routine check-ups, and for policy-makers to consider public health campaigns aimed at destigmatizing menopause and sexual wellness.
Looking to the future, the study opens avenues for further research into how sexual activity influences long-term genital and urinary health, and adds momentum to the growing movement towards individualized menopause care. There is further scope to examine the barriers to hormone therapy access and how cultural attitudes might be shifting among different Thai generations. The study also reinforces the need for multidisciplinary approaches, blending gynecology, mental health, and patient education to support women holistically as they age.
For Thai women approaching or experiencing menopause, there are several actionable takeaways. First, it is important to monitor one’s own health and seek guidance from qualified healthcare providers if symptoms of GSM, such as vaginal dryness or pain, arise. Second, for those comfortable with continued intimacy, regular sexual activity may offer protective benefits for genital health, as strongly suggested by this large survey. Those who are not sexually active can still benefit from the latest treatments like local low-dose estrogen therapy, which can be discussed with a physician or gynecologist. Finally, opening conversations about menopause with family, peers, or healthcare providers can help reduce stigma and catalyze more supportive environments—be it at home or in the broader Thai community.
As awareness grows, it is crucial for policymakers, medical practitioners, and community leaders in Thailand to invest in menopause education, destigmatize sexual health for older women, and ensure broad access to safe and effective treatment options. These steps will empower Thai women to enjoy healthier, more comfortable lives throughout and beyond menopause.
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