We've joined forces with Mickie Griffith Autry
Sexuality and Menopause
Mickie Griffith-Autry, PhD, NP-C
Components of female sexuality include fantasy, stimulation, erotica, open communication, and noncoital interactions. All of these components are important when exploring sexuality and menopause.
Sexual desire, or libido, is the urge for sexual activity. Decreased libido is a very common concern during the menopausal transition. Sexual desire is a learned behavior and is composed of feelings of pleasure, enjoyment, and satisfaction. Many women who have experienced pain, disappointment, guilt, and dissatisfaction may have a negative desire for sexual intercourse.
The transition into menopause can often alter a woman's previous sexual desire. Hormonal changes, vaginal lubrication, low testosterone levels can have a significant effect upon sexual functioning.
Many menopausal women often endure additional elements of loss of a partner, a partner with sexual dysfunction, changes in physical appearance, urinary and/or fecal incontinence, sleep disturbances, job issues, empty nest, medications, and medical conditions that contribute to a loss of sexual desire and must be accounted for.
Sexual desire is an important concern during the menopausal transition. The changes women experience can be confusing, depressing, and misunderstood. However help is available from your health care provider. These therapies include but are not limited to medical, hormonal, psychological, and a willingness to openly communicate with your health care provider.
If at any time you have any specific topics or suggestions that you would like for me to address, please do not hesitate to contact me at: mickieautry@comcast.net and I will be happy to explore and discuss such issues.
December: Physiology of the menstrual cycle
January: Signs and symptoms of menopause
February: Pharmaceutical treatments for menopausal symptoms
March: Lifestyle modifications and menopause
April: Osteoporosis and menopause
May: Complementary and alternative therapy for menopausal symptoms
June: Breast Health
July: Cardiovascular health and menopause
August: Sexuality and menopause
September: Nurtrition and menopause
October: Weight management and activity during menopause
November: Vaginal health and menopause
Ms. Autry earned her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Jacksonville State University, her Masters of Science degree in nursing from the University of Alabama Huntsville, and her PhD from Walden University. Her research dissertation was entitled Pelvic muscle strengthening: Impact on sexual functioning in the menopausal woman. Ms. Autry is certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, the American Nursing Credentialing Center, and the Certification Board for Urological Nurses and Associates. She has completed multiple postgraduate preceptor programs in female sexual medicine, pelvic pain, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Ms. Autry is an active member of the Society of Urological Nurse Associates, North American Menopause Society, American Urological Society, and the International Pelvic Pain Society and founder of two women's health support groups. She is a national and local speaker for multiple pharmaceutical and medical companies, has participated in clinical trial studies, and has published articles in the Society of Urological Nurse Associate and North American Menopause Society journals.
Warning: Weight loss attempts are serious life changes that require professional medical attention before starting and constant monitoring during the program. The information provided on this site, is not to be considered as medical advice, nor a substitute for compentent medical assistance during weight loss efforts. The information provided is with the implied understanding that changes in your lifestyle should be attempted only as directed by your physician and/or health-care-professional.
Melanie Calvert Benton is available for any of the following events: schools, churches, senior citizen groups, libraries, hunting clubs, women's groups, fitness centers,radio talk shows, etc. Have your media person contact us with the details.
Events over fifty miles will be subject to transportation costs payable by USPO Money or cash. Please try to book at least one month ahead of scheduled event to avoid calendar conflict.
