(292) Sexual Inactivity Syndrome in Menopause: An Underestimated Public Health Concern

Introduction Sexual inactivity during menopause exacerbates multiple syndromes and poses a significant risk to women’s public health. Objective The objective is to draw attention to a commonly overlooked yet severe condition that significantly deteriorates the quality of life and health of perimenopausal and menopausal women. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 1,726 medical records of women aged 44 to 92, treated between 2015 and 2025. The evaluated group included women with periods of sexual inactivity exceeding 6 months, reaching up to 3–4 years in some cases. The control group included women with a minimum sexual activity of four times per year. Both groups were analyzed with or without hormone therapy. Results Signs and symptoms of the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause (MSM), and psychological and behavioral syndrome of menopause (PBSM) were more severe in sexually inactive women not using hormone therapy. Observed symptoms included dyspareunia, narrowing of the vaginal canal, urinary urgency, incontinence, vaginal and labial atrophy, and descent of the cysto-recto-urethral complex with vaginal and fecal incontinence. MSM included axial and appendicular osteopenia and reduced hormonal receptors in skeletal, cardiac, gastric muscles, and connective tissue. In women with continuous sexual activity, especially when accompanied by hormone therapy, a universal improvement was observed, with attenuation or complete resolution of symptoms. Conclusions Sexual inactivity syndrome affects the pelvic floor, genitourinary system, brain, heart, bones, and muscles, contributing to the advanced development of multiple morbidities with potentially fatal outcomes. Healthcare professionals must intervene not only at advanced stages but also promote sexual activity (with or without a partner), just as physical exercise is promoted, for its comprehensive health benefits in menopausal women. Disclosure No