Introduction:

the sexual sphere in the human being has a remarkable relevance, and can be affected by physiological processes such as the onset of menopause.

Objective:

to characterize the sexuality of women in perimenopausal stage.

Methods:

a review of the literature on sexuality during the climacteric and menopausal period was carried out in the Scopus, PubMed/MedLine and SciELO databases. A search formula using a combination of terms was used to search for information.

Results:

the physiology of female hormones changes over the years, as well as the repercussion of these hormonal changes and the clinical manifestations both in the female reproductive system and at a systemic level. It is necessary to emphasize lifestyle changes and individualization of patients to initiate hormonal treatment, taking into account the benefits, risks and contraindications of the treatments.

Conclusions:

sexuality is a process inherent to life, as well as menopause, which is a physiological process that modifies the sexual response cycle. Menopause does not necessarily mark the cessation of sexual life. Healthy lifestyle habits and protection against sexually transmitted infections, together with a solid orientation, are essential elements to achieve a healthy sexuality during menopause.

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