Reproductive Aging Among Sexual Minority Women

Abstract

Purpose of ReviewThe purpose of this review is to provide readers with an overview of research on reproductive aging among sexual minority women (SMW; women who do not identify as exclusively heterosexual, and report same-sex sexual behaviors or same-sex attraction). Recent Findings SMW report health behaviors and risk profiles suggesting they may experience earlier onset of menopause and more severe menopause-related symptoms than heterosexual women. SMW may also have unique forms of resilience related to their sexual orientation that buffer the social-psychological stressors associated with menopause. Summary No systematic studies of sexual orientation-related disparities in menopause or its associated symptoms exist. More research is needed to understand the SMW's unique forms of stress and coping mechanisms related to menopause. Keywords Menopause . Sexual minority women . Sexual healthThis article is part of the Topical Collection on Current Approaches to Managing Menopause * Virginia Jenkins