Older women with metabolic syndrome often experience low sexual desire, poor arousal, and difficulty with orgasm, according to an article in press for the American Journal of Medicine. 

Researchers also found that these women tend to have low rates of sexual activity and satisfaction. 

Metabolic syndrome refers to a group of symptoms that can include obesity, high blood pressure, low HDL cholesterol, high blood glucose, and high triglycerides. 

The study involved 376 postmenopausal women living in California, USA. They ranged in age from 64 to 82 with an average age of 73 years. About 42% had metabolic syndrome. 

The scientists used the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) to assess desire, arousal, vaginal lubrication, orgasm, pain, and satisfaction. For this study, the researchers added one question concerning sexual activity over the previous four weeks. 

Women with metabolic syndrome were more likely to meet the sexual dysfunction criteria on the desire, arousal, orgasm, and satisfaction domains of the FSFI when compared to those without metabolic syndrome. They also reported lower sexual activity.

In addition, participants with cardiovascular risk factors had higher rates of sexual dysfunction. 

"Prevention of chronic disease and optimization of health may preserve sexual activity and satisfaction," the authors wrote. 

With less than three weeks to go, we're excited about the 20th World Meeting on Sexual Medicine, to be held September 22 - 25, 2016 in Beijing, China. 

You can find a quick list of all presentation topics here. With master lectures, special lectures and sessions, point-counterpoint sessions, round table sessions, and workshops, you'll learn about the latest developments in the field of sexual medicine and connect with colleagues from around the world. 

It's not too late to register!  And you can still take advantage of discounted fees if your payment is received before September 15, 2016. It's easy to register online. 

We hope you'll join us!