TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life that marks the end of her reproductive years. Menopause generally occurs in her late 40s to early 50s. However, the timing of menopause can vary from woman to woman due to various factors, such as genetics, lifestyle, health conditions, and hormonal changes. Therefore, women are also at risk of experiencing early menopause.
A study found that regular sex is potentially associated with a lower risk of early menopause. The study showed that women who engage in sexual activity at least once a month are less likely to experience early menopause than those who have sex less frequently.
Sexual Activity and the Likelihood of Later Menopause
A study involving approximately 3,000 women in the United States showed that those who are sexually active weekly or more frequently are approximately 28 percent less likely to experience early menopause than women who have sex less than once a month. The sexual activity referred to is not limited to penetrative intercourse but also includes oral sex, intimate touch, and self-stimulation.
Researchers attribute this phenomenon to what is known as a “biological energy exchange.” When the body assesses the likelihood of pregnancy as relatively low, the energy normally used for ovulation can be diverted to other functions, such as maintaining overall health.
According to researcher Megan Arnot of University College London, if the chance of pregnancy is deemed low, the body may de-prioritize ovulation because it no longer perceives optimal reproductive function. This suggests that the female reproductive system can respond to biological and environmental conditions.
Evolutionary Factors and Health Protection
Research also links menopause to evolutionary adaptation. One theory suggests that menopause evolved to reduce intergenerational reproductive conflict and allow older women to focus on the health and well-being of their families, including helping to care for offspring.
Furthermore, during ovulation, a woman’s immune system tends to decline slightly. This condition makes the body more susceptible to disease. Therefore, when the chance of reproduction is deemed low, the body may divert energy to maintaining long-term health.
Menopause Remains a Natural Process
Experts emphasize that menopause remains a biological phase that every woman inevitably experiences. No intervention can completely prevent the cessation of reproductive function. However, this study suggests that the timing of menopause can be influenced by various factors, including the likelihood of pregnancy.
The study, published in the journal Royal Society Open Science, used data from the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation in the United States. These findings provide a new perspective that lifestyle, including sexual activity, can be related to the dynamics of women’s reproductive health.
Nevertheless, maintaining overall health remains a key factor in supporting quality of life leading up to menopause, such as adopting a balanced diet, regular exercise, managing stress, and maintaining healthy emotional relationships.
ECKA PRAMITA | TEMPO.CO | ANTARA
Read: 6 Symptoms of Menopause
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