Sexual dysfunction in Chinese women at different reproductive stages and the positive effect of hormone replacement therapy in the early postmenopause.

Objectives: The aims of the study were to investigate female sexual dysfunction (FSD) at different reproductive stages and the effect on FSD of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Methods: Participants ( = 524) were divided into six groups according to the Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop (STRAW + 10): reproductive age (R), early (ET)/late (LT) menopausal transition, early (EP)/late (LP) postmenopause and early postmenopause in women using HRT (EP-HRT; oestradiol sequentially combined with dydrogesterone). The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was used to assess FSD. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was carried out to predict FSD risk factors.

Results: There was an increase in FSD in groups EP and LP, but not in groups R, ET and LT; most FSFI scores were lower in groups EP and LP than in groups R, ET and LT ( < .05). There was no difference in FSD between groups EP and LP, but lubrication and pain scores were higher in group EP ( < .05). The prevalence of FSD was lower in group EP-HRT; most FSFI scores were higher in group EP-HRT compared with group EP as control ( < .05). Further risk factors for FSD were identified as neutral and dissatisfied marital relations, lower educational level and smoking ( < .05).

Conclusion: We report a clear association between deteriorating sexual function and increasing STRAW + 10 classification, suggesting the consequence of decreasing ovarian function. HRT containing 'natural hormones' was shown to have a beneficial effect on FSD. The results are reported here for the first time in Chinese women.