Menopause is a natural physiological process in a woman’s life that marks the end of her reproductive years. It occurs as a result of a decline in ovarian function which ceases the monthly ovulation cycle.

Menopause is typically diagnosed after a woman has gone without a menstrual cycle for 12 consecutive months. It is a significant milestone for women, as it signals the end of their reproductive phase. Many women wonder if having more sex can help delay menopause, and research suggests there may be some truth to this.

What Exactly is Menopause?

As mentioned earlier, menopause occurs as a result of a decline in ovarian function due to age.

This process leads to a decrease in the hormone production of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, eventually leading to the cessation of the menstrual cycle and marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years. Typically, the age at which menopause occurs can vary between 45 and 55 years, with the average age of onset being 51.

Can More Sex Delay Menopause?

Recent studies suggest that women who have frequent sex may experience a delay in menopause.

A study published in August 2021 in the journal Menopause found that women who had sex once a week or more had a later onset of menopause than women who had sex less frequently. Another study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that women who reported having more sex had higher estradiol levels, which is a hormone produced in the ovaries involved in the menstrual cycle.

Related Article What Is the Relationship Between Sex and Menopause?

How Does Sex Delay Menopause?

The exact mechanisms by which sex may delay menopause are not yet fully understood. However, several theories have been proposed, including the following:.

Increase in Estrogen and Testosterone Levels

Sexual activity causes an increase in estrogen and testosterone levels, which may help to maintain ovarian function, leading to a delay in menopause onset.

Decrease in Stress Hormones

Sex releases endorphins, which are hormones that counteract stress. When cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, is released in large amounts, it can lead to a decrease in estrogen levels and contribute to menopause onset.

Increase in Blood Flow

Sexual activity causes an increase in blood flow to the genitals, which may help to maintain the health of the genital tissues, leading to a delay in menopause onset.

Conclusion

While more research is needed to confirm the link between sex and delaying menopause, the findings from recent studies are promising.

If more sex does indeed have the potential to delay menopause, then it could be beneficial for women to increase their sexual activity to maintain their reproductive health for as long as possible. Women should also talk to their doctors about hormone therapies that can help delay menopause and alleviate the symptoms of menopause.