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Sexual function during the reproductive years, climacteric, and menopause
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Keywords

Sexual desire
Menopause
Climacteric
Female sexual function

How to Cite

Sexual function during the reproductive years, climacteric, and menopause. (2026). Electronic Journal Collection Health, 26(9), e25125. https://doi.org/10.25248/reas.e25125.2026

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Abstract

Objective: To evaluate female sexual desire in different reproductive phases — menacme, climacteric, and menopause — using the Female Sexual Quotient (QS-F) as a measurement instrument. Methods: Observational, cross-sectional, and analytical study involving 263 women of varying ages and hormonal stages. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire in Google Forms, including sociodemographic, obstetric, and QS-F variables. Statistical analysis was performed using Welch’s ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The mean age was 36.8 ± 13.6 years. The overall sexual function showed a mean score of 66.7 ± 20, indicating generally preserved sexual desire. A significant difference was found between the menacme and menopause groups (p = 0.012), with a progressive but non-linear decline in sexual function across reproductive aging. The most affected domains in menopausal women were lubrication, pain, and satisfaction. Conclusion: The QS-F proved to be a valid tool for screening sexual dysfunction across hormonal phases. Women in menacme presented the best global sexual function, while those in climacteric and menopause showed mild to moderate reduction in desire.

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