”Ska man vänta till den här åldern för att få ett fantastiskt sexliv?” En reflexiv tematisk analys om upplevelsen av sexualitet och sexuell tillfredsställelse i klimakteriet

Sammanfattning: The aim of this study was to examine the experience of sexuality and sexual satisfaction during menopause. As a part of the research project “Factors affecting sexual satisfaction: An exploratory and cross-cultural examination of sexual and aesthetic ideals and norms, self-compassion and body awareness” at Lund University we conducted eight semi-structured interviews. The interviewees were between the ages 47-54 and in menopause. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using a critical-realistic and reflexive thematic analysis, which resulted in four main themes: Navigating the norms, the importance of feelings in a sexual relationship, it does not come by itself and changes no one speaks about. Norms and beliefs influenced the participants experiences of how they thought a woman should act and what sex should look like. Relationships and intimacy proved to be important and meaningful aspects of the experience of sexuality and sexual satisfaction and were seen as more meaningful when shared with someone they had feelings for. Furthermore, sexuality and sexual satisfaction were seen as something the participants could change and influence. The participants also expressed a desire for menopause, alongside with ageing, to be portrayed in a more positive light in general and requested more attention to the menopausal transition from their healthcare providers. The experience of sexuality and sexual satisfaction in menopause can be understood from the perspective of norms, relationships, individual and social factors. This study deepens the understanding of sexuality and sexual satisfaction during menopause.