"How much desire should I have?": a qualitative study of low libido in postmenopausal women

J Women Aging. 2022 Sep-Oct;34(5):649-657. doi: 10.1080/08952841.2021.1977070. Epub 2021 Sep 20.

Abstract

We conducted 15 interviews and 3 focus groups (total N = 36) among women 60 and older with low libido to better understand the role that it plays in their lives. Interviews and focus groups were led by facilitators using open-ended questions. A codebook was developed, then codes were assigned to all data. We identified three themes. First, women reported that sex was an important aspect of their lives. Second, women desired to know what was "normal" with regards to sexuality and aging. Third, women were distressed by low libido, concerned that it could have negative effects on romantic relationships and self-image.

Keywords: Postmenopause; low libido; qualitative; sexual function.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Libido*
  • Postmenopause
  • Sexual Behavior
  • Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological*
  • Sexuality