Genitourinary syndrome of menopause and sexual function, partner knowledge, and the impact on coupled sexual relationships.

Objectives: To assess the prevalence of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) and its association with female sexual dysfunction, the partner's knowledge, and repercussions on the couple's sexual life.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 266 couples (532 individuals) aged 50-70 years. Women and their partners were selected utilizing the "snowball" technique, formed from the "ego" couples who answered the interview regarding general health, genitourinary symptoms, sexual function, and partner knowledge information via telephone by trained interviewers.

Results: The prevalence rate of GSM was 74.44%. Low sexual function was significantly more frequent in women (46.15%) than in their partners (15.77%) (P<0.001). Vaginal dryness present in 44.15% and dyspareunia (58.67%) were associated with female sexual dysfunction (P<0.01), decreased satisfaction with sex, and avoidance of sex for fear of pain or lack of desire. Urinary incontinence, nocturia, and urgency were reported by 17.29%, 35.34%, and 24.81% of women, respectively. and were not associated with sexual dysfunction. Approximately 49% of partners knew about their partner's GSM symptoms. Vaginal discomfort led to the loss of men's desire, and women avoided intercourse because they were concerned about pain.

Conclusions: The prevalence of GSM is high and related to low female sexual function. Half of the partners knew about problems with GSM, and the women's symptoms interfered with the couple's sexual desire and satisfaction, which could impact the affective and sexual aspects of the couple's relationship.