Abstract

Objectives: Determine which social, demographic and sexual function variables that most influence libido or desire and orgasm domains in the premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of 231 Colombian-born women, aged 40-62 years. The sexual function was measured by self-questionnaire. The analysis was performed by using the χ 2- test and multivariate regression analysis. The sexual function was divided in five domains: desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, pain; additionally satisfaction was included. Results: The women with a higher level of education and with a good perception of their satisfaction with their partners, reported better performance in the desire. Age and the non existence of sexual partner influenced in a negative way on the desire. In sexual active women the orgasm was negatively influenced by low satisfaction scores, lack of emotional closeness with their partners and low educational level. High scores in lubrication and desire were associated with a good performance in the orgasm. The hormone therapy (HT) was associated with better scores in orgasm. Conclusions: Age, level of education, the presence or lack of sexual partner, degree of satisfaction with emotional closeness with the partner and adequate lubrication, influence the desire and orgasm domains in a significant way. By identifying these associations we can then perform some inexpensive interventions. Improving lubrication for menopausal women. Including men in educational activities to sensitize them toward women's feelings. Organizing educational campaigns for middle-aged women to demystify that sexuality is only for young people. © 2004 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.