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Introduction Medications used to treat chronic diseases have contributed to increasing longevity and improving quality of life. These medications are considered an indispensable resource in the management of most treatable diseases. However, they can affect sexual function through their effects on the central or the peripheral nervous system or due to hormonal effects. Aim To evaluate the association between the use of medication for chronic diseases and sexual dysfunction in Brazilian women 45–60 years of age. Methods A secondary analysis of household survey data from a previous cross-sectional, population-based study conducted with a sample of 749 women of a population of 257,434 female urban residents in the age bracket of interest. Sexual function was evaluated using the Short Personal Experiences Questionnaire (SPEQ). Associations between the use of medication and sexual function were evaluated, as were correlations with other variables. Main Outcome Measure We found associations of the individual SPEQ domains with the use of some medications. Results Mean age of participants was 52.5 ± 4.4 years. Mean age at menopause was 46.5 ± 5.8 years. The overall prevalence of medication use was 68.8%, with the drugs predominantly consisting of those used for cardiovascular diseases. In the Poisson regression analysis, sexual dysfunction, as based on the overall SPEQ score, was associated with sexual inactivity (prevalence ratio [PR] = 4.05; 95% CI 3.16–5.20; P < .001), a sedentary lifestyle (PR = 1.49; 95% CI 1.06–2.09; P = .021), and untreated anxiety (PR = 1.44; 95% CI 1.08–1.92; P = .014). Analysis of the individual SPEQ domains revealed that women who scored low in the desire domain were more likely to use antihypertensive agents (P = .019), whereas a lower score for the arousal domain was associated with the use of antidepressants, with treatment for osteoarticular diseases and with polypharmacy (P = .003). Women with lower scores in the satisfaction domain were more likely to use antidepressants, drugs for osteoarticular diseases, diabetes medication, and polypharmacy (P = .019). A lower score in the orgasm domain was associated with the use of antidepressants, the treatment of osteoarticular diseases, and diabetes (P < .001). Hormone therapy proved protective against loss of libido (P = .036). Clinical Implications Some medications can interfere with sexual function negatively and, clinicians have to be aware of it to choose the treatment with fewer collateral effects. Strength & Limitations The strength of our study is the large, population-based sample of middle-aged women evaluated for sexual dysfunction with the SPEQ. However, it was a self-reported cross sectional study. Conclusion This study found no association between the use of medication for chronic diseases and the overall SPEQ score, whereas untreated anxiety was 1 of the main factors associated with female sexual dysfunction. On the other hand, medical treatments were found to contribute to lower scores in the different sexual function domains. Common drug culprits included antihypertensives, antidepressants, treatment for osteoarticular disease, diabetes medications, and polypharmacy. Hormone therapy protected against loss of libido.

In December 2019, Wuhan (China) reported the first case of a severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by the coronavirus SARS-COV-2. On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. ...

A severe impairment of cognitive function characterizes dementia. Mild cognitive impairment represents a transition between normal cognition and dementia. The frequency of cognitive changes is higher in women than in men. Based on this fact, hormonal factors likely contribute to cognitive decline. In this sense, cognitive complaints are more common near menopause, a phase marked by a decrease in hormone levels, especially estrogen. Additionally, a tendency toward worsened cognitive performance has been reported in women during menopause. Vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes, sweating, and dizziness), vaginal dryness, irritability and forgetfulness are common and associated with a progressive decrease in ovarian function and a subsequent reduction in the serum estrogen concentration. Hormone therapy (HT), based on estrogen with or without progestogen, is the treatment of choice to relieve menopausal symptoms. The studies conducted to date have reported conflicting results regarding the effects of HT on cognition. This article reviews the main aspects of menopause and cognition, including the neuroprotective role of estrogen and the relationship between menopausal symptoms and cognitive function. We present and discuss the findings of the central observational and interventional studies on HT and cognition.

OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of vaginal erbium laser treatment on the vaginal health and sexual function of postmenopausal women with a history of breast cancer. METHODS An open, prospective, therapeutic intervention study was conducted with 24 postmenopausal women with a history of breast cancer and vaginal dryness, and/or dyspareunia, who had not used vaginal hormone therapy for at least 6 months. The women were treated using a 2,940-nm Erbium: YAG laser (Etherea-MX, Athena, Sao Carlos, Sao Paulo, Brazil), with 90 and 360 scanning scopes, between August, 2017 and October, 2017 in a private clinic in a city of southeastern Brazil. Vaginal erbium laser treatment was performed at three sessions with a 30-day interval between each session. Sexual function was assessed before and 1 month after treatment using the Short Personal Experiences Questionnaire. Questions related to genitourinary symptoms were also applied. Vaginal health was assessed before each laser session using the Vaginal Health Index Score. RESULTS Mean age was 53.7 years. Vaginal health improved, as shown by an increased overall score (P

The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between age at menopause and sexual dysfunction and the components of sexual function in postmenopausal women.In this cross-sectional population-based study, data of 540 women aged 45 to 60 years regarding the age they were when they achieved menopause and its association with sexual dysfunction (evaluated using the Short Personal Experiences Questionnaire) were obtained through interviews. We assessed the data for associations between age at menopause and sexual dysfunction and demographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics.Age at menopause was not associated with sexual dysfunction. Arousal (dysfunction) was the only component of sexual function that was associated with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and early menopause (P = 0.01). It was reported by 64.2% of women with POI (women40 y), compared with sexual dysfunction rates of 50% and 45.6% of women aged 40 to 45 and45 years, respectively (P = 0.04). In women with POI or early menopause, Poisson regression analysis showed that having a partner with sexual problems (prevalence ratio [PR] = 6.6; 95% CI: 3.3-13,2; P 0.001) and dyspareunia (PR = 3.9; 95% CI: 1.8-8.2; P = 0.0005) were factors associated with arousal dysfunction. Satisfaction with the partner as a lover (PR = 0.4; 95% CI: 0.2-0.7; P = 0.002) was protective against arousal dysfunction.Arousal dysfunction was associated with early ovarian failure and POI. The major factors affecting this association were having a partner with sexual problems, dyspareunia, and no satisfaction with the partner as a lover. These findings highlight the importance of evaluating partner problems and improving lubrication in these groups of women.

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its associated factors in a group of HIV-infected middle-aged women. Methods: Cross-sectional study including 273 HIV-infected climacteric women of 40–60 years of age under care in two HIV outpatient reference centers in Brazil. Metabolic syndrome diagnosis was based on 2006 International Diabetes Federation criteria. Sociodemographic, clinical and behavioral factors were evaluated as well as HIV infection-related parameters. Results: Mean age was 47.7 years; 59.1% of women were premenopausal, 91% were on antiretroviral therapy. Current CD4 count was >500 cells/mm3 in 61.7%, current viral load undetectable in 76.9% of women, and a quarter had previous diagnosis of aids. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in the subgroup of menopausal women was 46.9%. Univariate analysis showed an association between metabolic syndrome and age ≥50 years (p = 0.002), schooling 25 kg/m2 (p

To evaluate menopausal symptoms and their associated factors in HIV-positive women.A cross-sectional study was conducted with 537 women of 40-60 years of age, 273 of whom were HIV-positive and 264 HIV-negative. The women were interviewed to obtain data on their sociodemographic characteristics and menopausal symptoms.The mean age of the seropositive women was 47.7±5.8 years compared to 49.8±5.3 for the seronegative women (p0.001). Bivariate analysis showed a lower prevalence of vasomotor symptoms in the seropositive group (p=0.009), specifically hot flashes (p0.002) and sweating (p=0.049). Vaginal dryness was also less prevalent in this group (p0.005). There were no statistically significant differences between the groups with respect to depression or insomnia. Multiple analysis showed that hot flashes were associated with being peri- or postmenopausal (PR=2.12; 95%CI: 1.52-2.94). Vaginal dryness was less common in women without a partner (PR=0.67; 95%CI: 0.49-0.90) and was associated with older age (PR=1.03; 95%CI: 1.01-1.06) and being in the peri- or postmenopause (PR=1.69; 95%CI: 1.10-2.60). Depression was inversely associated with being employed (PR=0.74; 95%CI: 0.58-0.96) and directly associated with the presence of chronic diseases (PR=1.30; 95%CI: 1.01-1.067). Insomnia was associated with a lower body mass index (PR=0.96; 95%CI: 0.95-0.97) and with being peri- or postmenopausal (PR=1.48; 95%CI: 1.11-1.97). No correlation was found between HIV serological status and any of the menopausal symptoms.In this study, after controlling for confounding variables, HIV infection was not found to be associated with vasomotor, genitourinary or psychological symptoms or with insomnia.

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate factors associated with self-perception of health among women 50 years or older living in a Brazilian city. METHODS A cross-sectional, population-based study was conducted using self-reported data from a household survey carried out in a sample of 622 women 50 years or older. Sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with the women's perception of their own health (very good, good, fair, poor, or very poor) were assessed. χ2 test and Poison multiple logistic regression analysis were used to select the principal factors associated with a poorer perception of health at a significance level of 5%. RESULTS Multiple analyses showed that the probability of association of chronic diseases with a woman's perception of her health as fair, poor, or very poor increased by 97% when at least two morbidities were present, whereas for each point (kg/m2) increase in body mass index, the probability of association with her perceiving her health as poorer increased by 2% (95% CI, 1.01-1.04). The probability of association decreased by 50% if she had more than 8 years of schooling (95% CI, 0.36-0.70), by 29% if she had health insurance (95% CI, 0.59-0.86), and by 32% if she performed physical exercise weekly (95% CI, 0.54-0.86). CONCLUSIONS The presence of multimorbidities and a higher body mass index increases the probability of association with a woman's poorer perception of her own health, whereas having more than 8 years of schooling, having medical insurance, and performing physical exercise weekly decreases the probability of association with a poorer perception of health.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the prevalence of women aged 50 years or more who are sexually active and their self-perception with respect to their sexual lives. Associated factors were also assessed. METHODS: A cross-sectional, population-based, self-reported household survey involving 622 Brazilian women aged 50 years or more. Sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral factors were evaluated. The sexual life self-perception was classified as very good, good, fair, poor, or very poor. Data were analyzed using the χ² test, Fisher's exact test, and Poisson multiple regression analysis. Prevalence ratios and their 95% confidence intervals were also calculated. RESULTS: Of the women in this sample, 228 (36.7%) reported having a sexual life and, of these, 53.5% classified it as very good or good, while 46.5% considered it fair, poor, or very poor. The bivariate analysis indicated that being postmenopausal (p=0.025) and using natural remedies to treat the menopause (p=0.035) were factors associated with the woman classifying their sexual lives as fair, poor, or very poor. Multiple regression analysis showed that more women who had used or were currently using natural remedies for the menopause scored their sexual lives as fair, poor, or very poor. CONCLUSIONS: More than half the women aged 50 years or more in this study were not sexually active. A poorer sexual life self-perception was associated with the use of natural remedies to treat menopausal symptoms. This may indicate a need to improve the way in which these women are evaluated and treated. Women's assessment of their own sexual lives may prove a useful tool in clinical practice. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a prevalência de vida sexual em mulheres de 50 anos de idade ou mais, assim como avaliar sua autopercepção em relação à vida sexual e os fatores associados. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal de base-populacional, por meio de autorrelato em pesquisa domiciliar, envolvendo 622 mulheres brasileiras de 50 anos de idade ou mais. Fatores sociodemográficos, clínicos e comportamentais foram avaliados. A autopercepção da vida sexual foi classificada como muito boa, boa, regular, ruim ou muito ruim. Os dados foram analisados usando-se o teste do χ², o teste exato de Fisher e a análise de regressão múltipla de Poisson. As razões de prevalência e seus intervalos de confiança de 95% foram calculados. RESULTADOS: Das mulheres nesta amostra, 228 (36,7%) relataram ter vida sexual e, destas, 53,5% classificaram-na como muito boa ou boa, enquanto 46,5% consideraram-na regular, ruim ou muito ruim. A análise bivariada indicou que estar na pós-menopausa (p=0,025) e usar remédios naturais para tratamento da menopausa (p=0,035) foram os fatores associados com a classificação da vida sexual pelas mulheres como regular, ruim ou muito ruim. A análise de regressão múltipla mostrou que mulheres que tinham usado ou usavam atualmente remédios naturais para o tratamento da menopausa classificaram sua vida sexual como regular, ruim ou muito ruim. CONCLUSÕES: Mais da metade das mulheres de 50 anos de idade ou mais não referiram vida sexual. Uma pior autopercepção da vida sexual foi associada com o uso de remédios naturais para o tratamento da menopausa. Isso pode indicar a necessidade de melhorias na avaliação e no tratamento dessas mulheres. Pode ser útil na prática clínica a autoavaliação da vida sexual pelas mulheres.

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of multimorbidity and associated factors in Brazilian women aged 40 to 65 years with 11 or more years of school education. Methods A secondary analysis of a cross-sectional population-based study was conducted using an anonymous self-report questionnaire completed by 377 women. The number of reported morbid conditions was evaluated (depression, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, urinary incontinence, and insomnia) and classified as none or one and two or more morbid conditions. The sociodemographic, behavioral, clinical, and reproductive factors associated with these conditions were also assessed. The χ test and multiple logistic regression analysis with stepwise selection criteria were used to select the major factors associated with morbid conditions, with a significance level set at 5%. Results Insomnia was reported by 38.5%, depression by 31%, hypertension by 28.4%, urinary incontinence by 23.2%, and diabetes by 6.3% of the participants. In this sample, 28.9% did not report any morbid conditions, 31.8% reported one morbid condition, and 39.3% reported two or more morbid conditions. On logistic regression analysis, the increased likelihood of having two or more morbid conditions was associated with bad/fair self-perception of health (increased 5.1 times; 95% CI, 1.85-14.1), nonperformance of physical activity (increased by 2.7 times; 95% CI, 1.08-6.81), obesity (increased by 30.3 times; 95% CI, 3.17-250), postmenopause (increased by 4.4 times; 95% CI, 1.57-12.11), and nervousness (increased by 3.8 times; 95% CI, 1.45-9.8). Conclusions A worse self-perception of health, sedentariness, obesity, nervousness, and being postmenopausal were associated with multimorbidity.

Introduction Female sexual function depends on biological, psychological, and sociocultural contexts. Aim The objective of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of low levels of functioning in each of the sexual function domains (desire, arousal, and orgasm) and the factors associated with these phenomena, as well as to assess the frequency of sexual activity in this same sample population. Methods A cross-sectional, population-based study was conducted using an anonymous self-response questionnaire completed by 378 Brazilian-born women of 40–65 years of age with 11 years or more of formal education. The evaluation instrument was based on the Short Personal Experiences Questionnaire. Results The prevalence of low sexual desire was 60.6%; low arousal, 37%; and low orgasmic function, 31.1%. Multiple regression analysis showed that having a sexual partner (prevalence ratio [PR] = 0.69, confidence interval [CI] = 0.53–0.90) and nervousness (PR = 1.33, CI = 1.01–1.75) were factors associated with low sexual desire. Aging (PR = 1.04, CI = 1.02–1.06), having a sexual partner (PR = 0.57, CI = 0.41–0.81), feeling well/excellent (PR = 0.59, CI = 0.41–0.85), and having hot flashes (PR = 1.47, CI = 1.01 = 2.15) were factors found to be associated with low sexual arousal. Having a sexual partner (PR = 0.55, CI = 0.42–0.71), feeling well/excellent (PR = 0.68, CI = 0.49–0.94), and having hot flashes (PR = 2.08, CI = 1.43 = 3.04) were factors found to be associated with low sexual orgasmic function. Having a sexual partner (PR = 0.47, CI = 0.38–0.58), feeling well/excellent (PR = 0.78, CI = 0.69–0.89), and having hot flashes (PR = 1.15, CI = 1.05–1.26) were factors found to be associated with a frequency of sexual activity of once a week or less. Conclusions In this sample of middle-aged women, low sexual desire was the most prevalent sexual problem. These results highlight the importance of identifying and treating factors associated with each individual component of low female sexual function.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between different types of physical activity and quality of life in a sample of women aged 60 or over. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out, interviewing 271 women. Of these, 141 were recruited in a menopause outpatient clinic and 130 were recruited in a social leisure center, in Brazil. The instruments used were the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) version 8 and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire specific for this age group (WHOQOL-OLD). Each IPAQ section was evaluated by multiple linear regression analysis, considering independent and confounding variables. The significance level was set at 5% and the software used was SAS version 9.1.3. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 67.4 ± 5.3 years. The mean time devoted to physical activity was 2802.7 ± 1154.9 minutes per week. The total WHOQOL-OLD score was 66.9 ± 11.7. The past, present and future actvities (estimated β = 0.021) and, social participation (estimated β = 0.03) domains had association with IPAQ transportation section. The leisure-time domain of the IPAQ had an inverse and significant relationship with the quality of life score related to present, past and future activities (estimated β = -0.0269). CONCLUSION: Quality of life was negatively influenced by leisure, but time spent in this physical activity was the shortest in comparison to other types of physical activities. In this sample, only physical activity for transportation was positively associated with a better quality of life.

Objective The etiology of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) is known to be multifactorial, involving biological, psychosexual, and context-related factors. The objective of the present study was to analyze the factors associated with female HSDD and to stratify these factors according to their importance. Methods This was a population-based, hierarchical study conducted in Brazil, based on data from previous research on the Brazilian Sexual Life Study, conducted between November 2002 and February 2003 in various Brazilian cities. The primary study consisted of a self-administered and anonymous questionnaire, addressing sociodemographic parameters, general health, life habits, behavior, and complaints related to sexual function. The association between HSDD and various other factors was assessed. The data were evaluated by hierarchical multiple regression analysis. Results The prevalence of HSDD in this sample was 9.5%. Associations were found with cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, posttraumatic stress, poorer education level, being older, being married, a lack of information on sexuality in childhood/adolescence, and a limited sexual repertoire. Women who consumed moderate amounts of alcohol were found to be less likely to have HSDD. Conclusions Analysis of the associated factors classified in order of importance and analysis of the characteristics of the sexual relationships provide additional information to currently available data on the traditional concepts of HSDD.

A infecção pelo vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV) tem aumentado significativamente entre mulheres de meia-idade. Nesta revisão foi feito um levantamento de estudos recentes que buscam identificar possíveis fatores de risco associados à infecção pelo HIV em mulheres climatéricas. São abordados diversos fatores associados, como: sintomas climatéricos, mudança de comportamento do parceiro sexual frente a novos medicamentos, negociação sobre o uso de preservativos em relações sexuais, comportamento de risco para HIV, autoestima global e autoestima sexual, história pregressa de abuso sexual, uso de drogas, estereótipo da vida sexual na maturidade, uso de terapia antirretroviral e abordagem da função sexual.Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has increased considerably among middle-aged women. In this work we reviewed recent studies aimed at identifying possible factors related to HIV infection in climacteric women. Several associated factors are considered, such as: climacteric symptoms, partner's change in sexual behavior in face of new drugs, negotiation for use of condoms in sexual intercourse, risk behavior for HIV, global self-esteem and sexual self-esteem, history of sexual abuse, use of drugs, stereotypes of sex life in maturity, use of antiretroviral therapy and approach to sexual function.

A infecção pelo vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV) tem aumentado significativamente entre mulheres de meia-idade. Nesta revisão foi feito um levantamento de estudos recentes que buscam identificar possíveis fatores de risco associados à infecção pelo HIV em mulheres climatéricas. São abordados diversos fatores associados, como: sintomas climatéricos, mudança de comportamento do parceiro sexual frente a novos medicamentos, negociação sobre o uso de preservativos em relações sexuais, comportamento de risco para HIV, autoestima global e autoestima sexual, história pregressa de abuso sexual, uso de drogas, estereótipo da vida sexual na maturidade, uso de terapia antirretroviral e abordagem da função sexual. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has increased considerably among middle-aged women. In this work we reviewed recent studies aimed at identifying possible factors related to HIV infection in climacteric women. Several associated factors are considered, such as: climacteric symptoms, partner's change in sexual behavior in face of new drugs, negotiation for use of condoms in sexual intercourse, risk behavior for HIV, global self-esteem and sexual self-esteem, history of sexual abuse, use of drugs, stereotypes of sex life in maturity, use of antiretroviral therapy and approach to sexual function.

To evaluate the factors associated with the sexuality of middle-aged women with sexual partners.A cross-sectional, population-based study was carried out using an anonymous, self-response questionnaire completed by Brazilian-born women 40 to 65 years old with 11 years or more of formal education who had a sexual partner. Of the 378 women who agreed to participate in the study, 219 answered all the questions used for calculation of the sexuality score and reported having a sexual partner. The instrument was based on the Short Personal Experiences Questionnaire. Seven components were analyzed: satisfaction in sexual activities, orgasm, intensity of desire, self-classification of sexual life, and frequency of arousal, sexual activity, and sexual fantasies. Sociodemographic, clinical, behavioral, reproductive, and partner-related factors were evaluated. Poisson multiple regression analysis was performed, and prevalence ratios (PRs) with their 95% CIs were estimated.The median sexuality score was 9 (range, 2.45-13.77). The prevalence of below-median scores was higher in women who lived with their sexual partner (PR = 2.07; 95% CI: 1.17-3.69), who were in the menopausal transition or were postmenopausal (PR = 1.69; 95% CI: 1.08-2.65), and who were hypertensive (PR = 1.65; 95% CI: 1.19-2.30). Sexual activities involving penetration (PR = 0.48; 95% CI: 0.31-0.73) and a score of 6 for satisfaction with partner as a lover (PR = 0.34; 95% CI: 0.20-0.60) were indicative of a protective effect against poor sexuality.In this cohort, the sexuality of women in midlife was negatively associated with the factors of living with a sexual partner, being in the menopausal transition or postmenopausal, and being hypertensive. Therefore, greater attention should be paid to identifying these factors, and measures should be adopted to minimize their repercussions on the sexuality of middle-aged women.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and its associated factors in middle-aged women with 11 years or more of formal education. METHODS: A cross-sectional, population-based study was carried out using an anonymous, self-response questionnaire. A total of 315 Brazilian-born women, 40-65 years of age with 11 years or more of schooling, participated in the study. The instrument used in the evaluation was based on the Short Personal Experiences Questionnaire. Sexual dysfunction was calculated from the mean score of sexual responsiveness (pleasure in sexual activities, excitation and orgasm), frequency of sexual activities and libido. Sociodemographic and clinical factors were evaluated. Poisson multiple regression analysis was carried out and the prevalence ratios with respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated. RESULTS: The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was 35.9% among our study population. Multiple regression analysis showed that sexual dysfunction was positively associated with older age (prevalence ratios=1.04; 95%CI:1.01-1.07) and with the presence of hot flashes (prevalence ratios=1.37; 95%CI:1.04-1.80). Having a sexual partner (PR=0.47; 95%CI:0.34-0.65) and feeling well or excellent (prevalence ratios= 0.68; 95%CI: 0.52-0.88) were factors associated with lower sexual dysfunction scores. CONCLUSIONS: Sexual dysfunction was present in more than one-third of women that were 40-65 years of age with 11 years or more of formal education. Within that age group, older age and hot flashes were associated with higher sexual dysfunction scores, whereas feeling well and having a sexual partner were associated with better sexuality.

OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between multimorbidity and sexual dysfunction in women aged 45 to 60 years in a cross-sectional population-based study in a specific Brazilian city. It was also to evaluate the main factors associated with sexual dysfunction in the group with multimorbidity. METHODS Cross-sectional population-based study conducted with 736 women (household survey), representative of a population of 257,434 women, to obtain data on multimorbidity and sexual dysfunction, as part of a broader study on women's health. The instrument used to evaluate sexual dysfunction was the Short Personal Experiences Questionnaire. Associations were determined between multimorbidity and sexual dysfunction and sexual dysfunction and demographic, behavioral, and medical characteristics. RESULTS 53% of the women reported multimorbidity and 49.6% of them reported sexual dysfunction. Multiple regression analysis showed no association between sexual dysfunction and multimorbidity. Sexual dysfunction in the whole sample (with and without multimorbidity) was associated with sexual activity in the last month (prevalence ratio [PR] = 0.27, 95% CI 0.22-0.33, P

A cross-sectional study was conducted with the purpose of evaluating bone mineral density in HIV seropositive and seronegative climacteric women. HIV infection was negatively associated with bone mineral density in the lumbar spineTo assess bone mineral density (BMD) and its associated factors in HIV seropositive and seronegative climacteric womenA cross-sectional study with 537 women (273 HIV seropositive and 264 HIV seronegative) aged between 40 and 60 years old receiving follow-up care at two hospitals in Brazil. A questionnaire on clinical and sociodemographic characteristics was completed. Laboratory tests were performed, and BMD was measured at the lumbar spine and hip. Statistical analysis was carried out by Yates and Pearson chi-squared tests, Mann-Whitney test, and multiple linear regression.The mean age was 47.7 years in HIV-seropositive women, and 75 % had nadir CD4 above 200, and 77.8 % had viral load below the detection limit. The mean age in the HIV-seronegative women was 49.8 years. The prevalence of low spinal BMD was 14.6 % in the HIV-seropositive and 4.6 % in the HIV-seronegative women (p0.01). The prevalence of low BMD at the femoral neck was 5.6 % in HIV-seropositive and 3.3 % in the HIV-seronegative women (p = 0.38). Multiple analyses showed that the factors associated with lower BMD at the spine were being postmenopausal and being HIV-seropositive. Being overweight was associated with a higher BMD. At the femoral neck, factors associated with lower BMD were being postmenopausal and being white. Being overweight and having a greater number of pregnancies were associated with higher BMD CONCLUSIONS: HIV-seropositive women on long-term antiretroviral treatment and in good immunological conditions exhibited low BMD in the spine (L1-L4). However, BMD in the femoral neck was similar to non-infected women.

Introduction Studies have associated the metabolic syndrome with poor sexual function; the results, however, are controversial. Aims To evaluate the relationship between the metabolic syndrome and sexual function and to identify the factors associated with poor sexual function. Methods A secondary analysis of a cross-sectional cohort study including 256 women of 40–60 years of age receiving care at the outpatient department of a university teaching hospital. Main Outcome Measures A specific questionnaire was applied to collect sociodemographic and behavioral data, and the Short Personal Experience Questionnaire was used to evaluate sexual function, with a score ≤7 being indicative of poor sexual function. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, fasting glucose, high-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, triglycerides, follicle-stimulating hormone and thyroid stimulating hormone levels were determined. Results The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome, as defined by the International Diabetes Federation, was 62.1%, and the prevalence of poor sexual function was 31.4%. The only factor related to female sexual function that was associated with the metabolic syndrome was sexual dysfunction in the woman‘s partner. The factors associated with poor sexual function in the bivariate analysis were age >50 years (P = 0.003), not having a partner (P Conclusions The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome was high and was not associated with poor sexual function in this sample of menopausal women. The only factor associated with poor sexual function was being over 50 years of age.

PURPOSE:To evaluate factors associated with hypertension in Brazilian women of 50 years of age or more.METHODS:A cross-sectional population based study using self-reports. A total of 622 women were included. The association between sociodemographic, clinical and behavioral factors and the woman's age at the onset of hypertension was evaluated. Data were analyzed according to cumulative continuation rates without hypertension, using the life-table method and considering annual intervals. Next, a Cox multiple regression analysis model was adjusted to analyze the occurrence rates of hypertension according to various predictor variables. Significance level was pre-established at 5% (95% confidence level) and the sampling plan (primary sampling unit) was taken into consideration.RESULTS:Median age at onset of hypertension was 64.3 years. Cumulative continuation rate without hypertension at 90 years was 20%. Higher body mass index (BMI) at 20–30 years of age was associated with a higher cumulative occurrence rate of hypertension over time (coefficient=0.078; p15 cigarettes/day was associated with a higher rate over time (coefficient=0.485; p=0.004).CONCLUSION:The results of the present study highlight the importance of weight control in young adulthood and of avoiding smoking in preventing hypertension in women aged ≥50 years. OBJETIVO:Avaliar os fatores associados com a taxa de ocorrência de hipertensão arterial sistêmica (HAS) em mulheres brasileiras com 50 anos ou mais.MÉTODOS:Trata-se de um estudo transversal de base populacional usando autorrelato de doenças. Foi avaliada a associação entre os fatores sociodemográficos, clínicos e comportamentais com a idade da ocorrência de hipertensão. Os dados foram analisados com uso das taxas acumuladas de continuação para hipertensão utilizando o método de tabela de vida, com intervalos anuais. Em seguida, foi ajustado modelo de regressão múltipla de Cox, para a análise de diversas variáveis preditoras, possivelmente associadas à taxa acumulada de ocorrência de hipertensão. O nível de significância foi pré-estabelecido em 5% (Intervalo de confiança de 95%) e o plano de amostragem (unidade primária da amostra) foi levado em consideração.RESULTADOS:A mediana da ocorrência da hipertensão das mulheres da amostra foi de 64,3 anos. A taxa acumulada de continuação sem hipertensão, aos 90 anos, foi de 20%. Quanto maior o índice de massa corpórea entre os 20 e 30 anos, maior foi a taxa acumulada de ocorrência de HAS ao longo do tempo (coef=0,078; p

Objective Low bone mineral density (BMD) has been found in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–infected patients; however, data on associated factors remain unclear, specifically in middle-aged women. This study aims to evaluate factors associated with low BMD in HIV-positive women. Methods In this cross-sectional study, a questionnaire was administered to 206 HIV-positive women aged 40 to 60 years who were receiving outpatient care. Clinical features, laboratory test results, and BMD were assessed. Yates and Pearson χ2 tests and Poisson multiple regression analysis were performed. Results The median age of women was 47.7 years; 75% had nadir CD4 T-cell counts higher than 200, and 77.8% had viral loads below the detection limit. There was no association between low BMD at the proximal femur and lumbar spine (L1-L4) and risk factors associated with HIV infection and highly active antiretroviral therapy. Poisson multiple regression analysis showed that the only factor associated with low BMD at the proximal femur and lumbar spine was postmenopause status. Conclusions Low BMD is present in more than one third of this population sample, in which most women are using highly active antiretroviral therapy and have a well-controlled disease. The main associated factor is related to estrogen deprivation. The present data support periodic BMD assessments in HIV-infected patients and highlight the need to implement comprehensive menopausal care for these women to prevent bone loss.

OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of sexual activity, factors associated with being sexually active, and sexual self-perception in women 50 years or older living in a Brazilian city. METHODS This population-based study applied a questionnaire to a random sample of 622 Brazilian women 50 years or older, representative of a population of 131,800 women, to obtain data on sexual activity and women's perception of their sexual life as part of a broader study that dealt with women's health. Associations between sexual activity, women's perception of their sexual life, and demographic, behavioral, and medical characteristics were determined. RESULTS Overall, 36.7% of the participants reported being sexually active. Of these, 53.5% classified their sexual life as very good or good. Multiple regression analysis showed that the main factors associated with the absence of sexual activity were not having a partner (prevalence ratio [PR], 0.16; 95% CI, 0.12-0.23; P < 0.001), aging (PR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.94-0.96; P < 0.001), and current or past smoking of five or more cigarettes per day (PR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.63-0.98; P = 0.034), whereas being sexually active was associated with the practice of physical activity (PR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.02-1.41; P = 0.032). A woman's classification of her sexual life as very poor, poor, or fair was associated with current or past use of natural remedies to treat menopausal symptoms (PR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.06-1.81; P = 0.020). CONCLUSIONS The main factors associated with the absence of sexual activity are not having a sexual partner, aging, and smoking, whereas weekly physical activity is associated with being sexually active. A poorer classification of a woman's sexual life is associated with her having used natural remedies to treat menopausal symptoms.

This study aims to evaluate multimorbidity and its associated factors in Brazilian women aged 50 years or older.This is a cross-sectional, population-based study using self-reports. A total of 622 women aged 50 years or older were included. Multimorbidity was defined as two or more of the following morbidities: hypertension, osteoarthritis, cataracts, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, glaucoma, chronic bronchitis or asthma, urinary incontinence, cancer, myocardial infarction, stroke, and pulmonary emphysema. Sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral factors were evaluated. Data were analyzed using χ test and Fisher's exact test, and Poisson multiple regression analysis was performed. Prevalence ratios and their 95% CIs were calculated.In this sample, 15.8% of participants reported no morbidities, whereas 26% reported having one morbid condition and 58.2% reported multimorbidity. With respect to morbidities, 55.9% of women reported having hypertension, 33.8% reported having osteoarthritis, 24.5% reported having cataracts, 22.7% reported having diabetes, 21.3% reported having osteoporosis, 9.9% reported having glaucoma, 9.2% reported having bronchitis, 8.9% reported having urinary incontinence, and 6.8% reported having cancer, whereas 4.8% reported having had a myocardial infarction, 2.7% reported having had a stroke, and 1.8% reported having pulmonary emphysema. Multiple regression analysis showed that for each additional year of life, women increased their likelihood of multimorbidity by 3% (95% CI, 1.02-1.04). Furthermore, for each point increase (kg/m) in their body mass index, women also increased their likelihood of multimorbidity by 3% (95% CI, 1.02-1.04).Multimorbidity is principally associated with aging and obesity.

Atividade fisica, alem dos beneficios fisicos, tem um papel importante na qualidade de vida, que engloba dominios, como capacidade funcional, estado emocional, interacao social, atividade intelectual, autocuidado, suporte familiar, estado de saude, valores culturais, eticos, religiosos, estilo de vida, satisfacao com o emprego e/ou com atividades diarias no ambiente em que se vive. Esta, tambem, relacionada a autoestima e ao bem estar individual

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of women with reduced bone mass to follow calcium/vitamin D treatment in relation to prescribed regimen, dose, indication, mode of intake, and the associated factors. METHODS A cross-sectional study of postmenopausal women taking medication after bone mineral density diagnosis of osteopenia or osteoporosis was conducted using the MedTake questionnaire. A total of 186 patients attending a menopause clinic were studied. Sociodemographic characteristics, history of comorbid conditions, concomitant use of medication, length of medication use, and ability to follow treatment in relation to prescribed regimen, dose, indication, and mode of ingestion were assessed. RESULTS The mean (SD) age of the women analyzed was 61.6 (8.21) years. The mean time since menopause was 16.8 years. Most women reported having difficulty reading, and 79% were white. The ability to follow treatment, evaluated using MedTake, was lower than 60% in most women. Taking the wrong dose was the most frequent error. The only factor associated with inadequate treatment was the use of concomitant medication (odds ratio, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.06-5.08). CONCLUSIONS The ability to follow adjuvant calcium and vitamin D treatment for decreased bone mass is low and associated with concomitant use of medication.

To evaluate factors associated with morbidities among Brazilian women aged 40-65 years and with 11 or more years of schooling.A secondary analysis of a cross-sectional population-based study was conducted, using an anonymous self-report questionnaire completed by 377 women. Were evaluated, with this instrument, some morbidities (hypertension, diabetes, insomnia and depression) and sociodemographic, behavioral, clinical and reproductive factors. The association between morbidities and independent variables was evaluated by the χ² test. Multiple logistic regression analysis with stepwise selection criteria was used to select the major factors associated with morbid conditions.In the multiple regression analysis, insomnia was associated with bad/fair self-perception of health (OR=2.3) and nervousness (OR=5.1). Depression was associated with bad/fair self-perception of health (OR=3.7) and bad/poor leisure (OR=2.8). Hypertension was associated with obesity (OR=3.1) and being in postmenopausal (OR=2.6). Diabetes was associated with age above 50 years (OR=3.9) and obesity (OR=12.5).The prevalence of morbidities was high and a worse self-perception of health and obesity were the main factors associated with morbidity.

OBJETIVO: avaliar o nível de atividade física, a qualidade de vida e os fatores associados em mulheres com 60 anos ou mais. MÉTODOS: estudo de corte transversal que incluiu 271 mulheres frequentadoras de um centro de lazer e de mulheres atendidas no Ambulatório de Menopausa em Campinas (SP). As mulheres foram convidadas a participar da pesquisa, que foi realizada com o uso de entrevistas. Os instrumentos utilizados foram o International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), versão 8, modificado para a população idosa para avaliar o nível de atividade física, e o Questionário de Qualidade de Vida da Organização Mundial da Saúde, específico para este grupo (WHOQOL-OLD), para avaliar o escore de qualidade de vida. Os resultados do IPAQ foram avaliados por meio de tercis, e a associação entre resultados do WHOQOL-OLD e IPAQ e características das mulheres pelos testes t de Student/Mann-Whitney e de análises múltiplas. RESULTADOS: a média etária das mulheres foi de 67,4±5,3 anos. Destas, 33% foram classificadas como pouco ativas. A análise de cada domínio da atividade física mostrou que 60,8% do tempo foi gasto em atividade sentada (1.701,6±986,1 minutos/semana). Ser frequentadora de um centro de lazer, ter maior idade, sem companheiro, maior escolaridade e boa autopercepção do estado de saúde, sem antecedentes de doenças e maior renda foram características que se associaram significativamente à prática de exercícios físicos de intensidade moderada/vigorosa. A análise múltipla evidenciou que frequentar um centro de lazer em Campinas (SP) e ter 70 anos ou mais aumentaram a chance de praticar exercícios físicos de intensidade moderada ou vigorosa, respectivamente, em 11,4 vezes e 2,8 vezes. O escore médio de qualidade de vida foi de 66,9±11,7. O maior valor foi observado no domínio referente às habilidades sensoriais (72,0±18,8), e o menor no que se refere à autonomia (60,3±16,2). A regressão linear mostrou que a boa autopercepção da saúde aumentou o escore de qualidade de vida em 7,3 pontos; o uso de maior número de medicamentos diminuiu em 4,4 pontos; e a prática de exercícios físicos moderados ou vigorosos aumentou em 4,8 pontos o referido escore. CONCLUSÕES: as mulheres despendem muito tempo na posição sentada. Evidenciou-se a importância da prática de exercícios físicos de intensidade moderada/vigorosa contribuindo para a obtenção de uma boa qualidade de vida.

to evaluate the level of physical activity, quality of life and associated factors in women aged 60 or older.a cross-sectional study was conducted on 271 women who go to a Leisure Center and women attended at a menopause ambulatory in Campinas (SP). The women were invited to take part in the research, carried out through interviews. The instruments used were the version 8 of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) modified for the elderly population in order to evaluate their physical activity, and the World Health Organization Questionnaire of Quality of Life specific for this group (WHOQOL-OLD) to evaluate their quality of life. IPAQ results were assessed using tertiles. The association between the WHOQOL-OLD and the IPAQ results and subject characteristics was assessed by the Student's t test, Mann-Whitney test and multiple analyses.the average age of women was 67.4 ± 5.3 years. Among these women, 33% were classified as being less active. Analysis of each physical activity domain showed that 60.8% of the time was spent in sitting activities (1,701.6 ± 986.1 minutes/week). Multiple analyses indicated that attending a leisure center in Campinas (SP) and being 70 years old or older increased the chances of engaging in moderate-intensity or vigorous-intensity physical activity by 11.4 and 2.8 times, respectively. The average quality of life score was 66.9 ± 11.7. The highest value was observed in the domain related to sensory abilities (72.0 ± 18.8) and the lowest value was related to autonomy (60.3 ± 16.2). Linear regression showed that a good self-perception of health increased the quality of life score by 7.3 points, the use of a bigger amount of medication decreased it by 4.4 points and the performance of moderate or vigorous physical exercise increased the score by 4.8 points.women spend prolonged periods of time in sitting activities. The importance of engaging in moderate/vigorous-intensity physical activity is evident for obtaining a good quality of life.

to translate into Brazilian Portuguese and culturally adapt the Short Personal Experiences Questionnaire (SPEQ) to climacteric women.the original English version from the University of Melbourne, Australia, was initially translated into Portuguese and back-translated into English. A sociocultural adaptation of vocabulary and linguistic constructions was performed to facilitate comprehension. The questionnaire was then pretested in successive stages in 50 women, until no doubts remained. The final version of the adapted instrument was self-responded by 378 Brazilian-born women, between 40 to 65 years old, with 11 years or more of schooling in a population-based study. The reliability (internal consistency as measured by Cronbach's alpha), the construct validity (correlation coefficients between the items comprising the SPEQ and selected variables) and the criterion validity (correlation coefficient between sexual dysfunction score and overall score of sexual life classification) were analyzed.one hundred and eight women answered all the questions of the SPEQ and were included in the study. Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) for all the nine SPEQ items ranged from 0.55 to 0.77 and the general alpha was 0.68. In the construct validity analysis, most of the correlation coefficients were significant (p0.005). The criterion validity analysis showed significant correlation coefficients in most cases.following the adaptation process, the Portuguese version of the SPEQ was deemed useful and appropriate for collecting data on sexual function and dyspareunia in Brazilian women, aged 45 to 65 years, with at least 11 years of schooling.

To investigate the prevalence of dyspareunia and its associated factors in a cohort of middle-aged women.A cross-sectional, population-based study was carried out using an anonymous, self-report questionnaire completed by 200 Brazilian-born women, 40 to 65 years of age, with 11 years or more of formal education. The evaluation instrument was based on the Short Personal Experiences Questionnaire. Sociodemographic, clinical, behavioral, reproductive, and partner-related factors were assessed. Poisson multiple regression analysis was performed, and prevalence ratios (PRs) with their 95% CIs were calculated.The prevalence of dyspareunia was 39.5%. Multiple analysis showed that dyspareunia was more common in women who reported nervousness (PR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.14-2.63) and depression (PR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.09-2.61). A score of more than 3 for frequency of sexual activity (PR = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.05-0.84) and having had more than two pregnancies (PR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.48-0.81) were factors indicative of a protective effect against dyspareunia.Dyspareunia was common in this cohort of middle-aged women. Nervousness and depression increased the likelihood of experiencing dyspareunia. These findings suggest that psychological symptoms should be taken into consideration in the management of the middle-aged woman with dyspareunia, and measures should be adopted to minimize the repercussions of these factors on sexuality.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a percepção de um grupo de mulheres de Belo Horizonte (MG) sobre a menopausa e seu tratamento. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se análise secundária de dados de estudo populacional de corte transversal com 378 mulheres brasileiras natas, de 40 a 65 anos, com 11 anos ou mais de educação formal. Avaliaram-se os relatos escritos espontaneamente ao final de um questionário sobre sexualidade, entregue por auxiliares de pesquisa e auto-respondido anonimamente. As mulheres foram alocadas em dois grupos: as que escreveram comentários ao final do questionário e as que não escreveram. Compararam-se os grupos em relação às características sociodemográficas e reprodutivas por meio do teste Qui quadrado de Pearson. Os comentários foram transcritos na íntegra para arquivo computadorizado para realizar a análise temática de seu conteúdo, identificando-se e categorizando-se as unidades de significado. RESULTADOS: Aproximadamente um terço das mulheres escreveu comentários (114/378), o que foi significativamente mais freqüente entre as mulheres com menor renda familiar. As principais categorias de análise identificadas foram: a) insegurança/confusão, com as principais idéias referentes a angústia, estresse e dúvidas sobre a menopausa; b) sintomas que provocam sentimentos negativos, como ondas de calor, secura vaginal e alterações de humor; c) terapia de reposição hormonal, medos e sentimentos da falta de convicção por parte dos médicos em prescrevê-la. CONCLUSÃO: Os comentários indicam a necessidade de dar mais atenção aos problemas percebidos no climatério, particularmente direcionada às mulheres menos favorecidas economicamente.

Objective: To evaluate factors associated with the sexuality of middle-aged women. Design: Cross-sectional, population-based survey using an anonymous self-response questionnaire. A total of 276 Brazilian-born women, 40 to 65 years old with at least 11 years of formal education, participated in the study. The evaluation instrument was based on the Short Personal Experiences Questionnaire. Seven components were analyzed: satisfaction in sexual activities, orgasm, intensity of desire, self-classification of sexual life, frequency of arousal, sexual activity, and sexual fantasies. Sociodemographic, clinical, behavioral, and reproductive factors were evaluated. Data were analyzed using the χ2 and Fisher exact tests and Poisson multiple regression analysis. Prevalence ratios (PRs) and their 95% CIs were calculated. Results: The median sexuality score was 9 (range, 2.45-13.77). Bivariate analysis indicated that being 50 years of age or older; in the menopausal transition or postmenopause; not having a sexual partner; reporting hot flushes, insomnia, depression, nervousness, sedentary lifestyle, arterial hypertension, or urinary incontinence; and poor self-perception of health were significantly associated with a below median sexuality score. Multiple regression analysis showed that the prevalence of below median scores was higher in older women (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01-1.05) and in those with insomnia (PR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.08-1.96). Having a sexual partner (PR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.50-0.92) and feeling well (PR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.57-0.94) was associated with a protective effect against a below median sexuality score. Conclusions: Older women and those with insomnia were more likely to have a low sexuality score, whereas those with a sexual partner and who felt well were less likely to have a low sexuality score.

Objectives To evaluate whether dyspareunia is associated with HIV status in menopausal women and also to assess which factors are associated with dyspareunia in a group of HIV-positive menopausal women. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 178 HIV-negative and 128 HIV-positive women aged 40–60 years. The Short Personal Experiences Questionnaire (SPEQ) was used to collect data. Sociodemographic, clinical, behavioural and reproductive factors were evaluated, as well as factors related to the HIV infection. Dyspareunia was defined as pain during intercourse. A bivariate analysis and Poisson multiple regression analysis were performed. Results Overall, 41.4% of the HIV-positive women reported dyspareunia compared with 34.8% of the HIV-negative women (p=0.242). In the HIV-positive women, bivariate analysis revealed an association between dyspareunia and having a steady partner (p=0.047); the woman’s partner having undergone HIV testing (p=0.020); vaginal dryness (p