With Valentine’s Day approaching, new data from female health specialists Forth reveals why many women may feel emotionally close to their partner but physically disconnected from sex. According to the data from Forth, testosterone levels in women decline by more than 51% with age, significantly impacting sexual desire, arousal and physical pleasure. Testosterone, often incorrectly viewed as a male hormone, plays a crucial role in women’s libido, sexual sensation and ability to reach orgasm. Forth’s research shows that women aged 18 – 29 have an average testosterone level of 1.24 nmol/L, compared to just 0.6 nmol/L in women over 60. Levels drop even more sharply after menopause, with a 31% reduction in post-menopausal women, helping explain why sexual desire often changes dramatically later in life. This decline in libido after the menopause is often regarded as normal, but it can have a profound impact on a woman’s quality of life and put pressure on relationships. When these changes are persistent and pervasive, it could be a sign of Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD). FSD is a condition affecting desire, arousal, orgasm and comfort during sex. FSD can cause significant emotional distress, impacting intimacy, confidence and relationships. In fact, 7 in 10 women have blamed menopause for the breakdown of their relationship, highlighting the real-world consequences of unmet sexual health needs. Although not the whole picture, testosterone can play a significant role in helping to improve women’s sexual experiences. The research comes as the news that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), has approved the first-ever testosterone…
