The article you saw was mistaken: Having regular sex doesn’t affect hormone production. At 55, you’re still within the range of “normal” for reaching natural menopause, which is defined as a year without menstruation. While the average is 52, the actual age is generally from 40 to 60.
What is true is that having regular sex will counter one of the most common results of menopause, which is vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. Having intercourse increases blood circulation, which keeps tissues healthy. That’s where the “use it or lose it” adage comes from: Maintaining blood supply can delay the onset of these symptoms, and lessen their severity as hormone levels continue to decline.
I’m glad you and your partner are sharing regular intimacy! And be aware there’s some research suggesting benefits from late menopause.
Dr. Barb DePree, M.D., has been a gynecologist and women’s health provider for almost 30 years and a menopause care specialist for the past ten.
2 comments
Christina, The biggest risk factor that is modifiable for developing uterine cancer is obesity, maintaining an ideal body weight is the single most important thing you can do to decrease that risk.
I haven’t had my period in 2years:) Before my period stoped I was feeling very ill when it would start so I’ll I would go to the er then it stoped:) My mom just died of uterine Cancer she was adopted so her history is all I know. My question is how can I protect myself from getting uterine cancer I already had cancer of cervix cleared by leaps.