NEWS COPY
A detailed study among women over 40 found that the mid-thirties is the point at which they felt most confident in the bedroom and that symptoms of the menopause, including vaginal dryness can have a negative effect on sex lives.
The research was commissioned by Replens MD, the UK’s number one GP recommended intimate moisturiser to soothe and treat vaginal dryness.
Kathy Abernethy, menopause specialist nurse, said: “Confidence in the bedroom is really important as for many women, how we feel sexually can have a significant effect on how we feel about ourselves generally, and vice-versa.”
According to the research, the thirties is the time you’re at your sexual peak and typically having more sex compared to women in their twenties or going through menopause.
The research of 2,000 women in relationship and aged 40 plus, found around half had been most confident in bed between the ages 18 and 24, whereas 91 per cent said they felt ‘at ease sexually’ aged 35 to 44.
Carried out by OnePoll, the survey showed that on average women over 40 have intercourse once a week – 52 times a year – yet three in ten admitted to not feeling confident about their sexual ability, whilst 30 per cent feel similarly about being naked in front of their partner.
Amidst this, two thirds of those surveyed, said they have been - or are currently going through - the menopause.
As a direct result, half said they had experienced a reduced sex drive and thirty-nine per cent of those surveyed said they had suffered with vaginal dryness, with 42 per cent admitting it made them ‘feel old’.
Seventeen per cent of those surveyed admit they have felt embarrassed talking to their partner about the menopause and any symptoms experienced.
Almost half said their confidence had been affected by the menopause, while 43 per cent said it had specifically affected their confidence under the sheets.
Kathy Abernethy added: “Although many women appear to suggest their sex life has never been better, many other women said quite the opposite.
“As the research shows, this can be attributed to a number of factors, but perhaps the menopause and its numerous symptoms have a significant impact.
“Half of those surveyed who have experienced vaginal dryness admit they are worried about it, but 80 per cent of sufferers have not sought advice because they think that it’s a natural part of getting older. But conditions like vaginal dryness can be very easily managed and treated.
“During menopause, oestrogen levels drop causing the cells in the vaginal tissue to produce less of the natural moisture which leads to symptoms such as discomfort and pain, often noticed more during intimacy.
“Products such as Replens MD can soothe and treat symptoms of vaginal dryness, delivering continuous moisture for up to 3 days of relief in just 1 application.”
“In a product trial, 94% of women suffering with vaginal dryness agreed Replens provided relief from symptoms for longer than their usual treatment.
“Our research shows that growing older does not mean the end of sexual intimacy. Hopefully this will encourage women to speak to an expert if they are concerned about ongoing menopause symptoms to help find the best treatment available to them.”
For more information and expert advice visit the www.replens.co.uk
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