Effect on sexual life--a comparison between tibolone and a continuous estradiol-norethisterone acetate regimen

Abstract

Objectives: to compare the effects of tibolone 2.5 mg (Livial) with those of 17 beta-estradiol 2 mg plus norethisterone acetate 1 mg (Kliogest) on sexual life.

Methods: in a 48 week, double blind, multicenter study, 437 postmenopausal women were randomised to treatment with either tibolone or 17 beta-estradiol 2 mg plus norethisterone acetate. Treatment groups were compared with respect to different aspects of sexual life with a questionnaire covering sexual experience and responsiveness during the last 30 days.

Results: a total of 315 subjects completed 48 weeks treatment. In the E2/NETA group an improvement after 48 weeks compared to baseline was observed in five out of seven items assessing sexual life. In the tibolone group an improvement regarding all seven items assessing sexual life was seen. When tibolone was compared to E2/NETA significantly higher scores were found for the items assessing 'frequency', 'satisfaction' and 'enjoyment'.

Conclusions: this study indicate that tibolone and E2/NETA -which both have an androgenic profile-affect several aspects of sexual life positively. The difference with respect to satisfaction with sexual enjoyment and frequency could be of clinical importance.