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Longitudinal studies of women's sexuality in midlife, particularly around menopause, have relied on standardized questions and generally indicate negative changes (decrease in libido, arousal, and lubrication; increase in painful intercourse). Now, researchers applied a qualitative open-ended approach to reveal nuances of sexuality changes in midlife. A total of 39 women (mean age, 52; 54% white; sexual activity with a partner at least once during the preceding 12 months) participated in one-on-one interviews or focus groups with trained interviewers.
Reported negative changes included decreased sexual frequency (which some considered positive), libido, and vaginal lubrication as well as orgasm difficulties attributed to physical (fatigue, m…