Sexual wellness is crucial regardless of your age. And our appetite for intimacy knows no age. As you get old, sex might not be similar to during your 20s, but it could still be extremely satisfying. Know which parts of sexual health would probably alter as you get old — and how you, along with your lover, could adjust.
Sexual Health and Safe Sex
Women could get pregnant until they are in their menopause stage — known as 12 straight months with no periods. If you are sexually active, always use birth control until you reach menopause. Consult with your health care provider for advice if you are uncertain of which birth control type suits you the best.
Aging and Men’s Sexual Health
Testosterone has a vital role in men’s sex life. Testosterone levels differ largely among men. Generally, however, older guys often have reduced testosterone levels than younger ones. Testosterone levels slowly decrease as men age — nearly 1% every year after their 30’s on average.
As men get old, their penis might need longer to get erect, and erections might not be as firm. It might take more time to have full arousal and ejaculatory and orgasmic experiences. Moreover, erectile dysfunction gets more and more normal. Numerous treatments could help guys sustain or achieve a sufficient erection for sex.
Aging and Women’s Sexual Health
As women reach the menopause stage, estrogen levels in their bodies decrease, which might result in slower sexual arousal and vaginal dryness. Emotional shifts could heighten feelings of stress, which could also distort your sexual desire.
While other women might like sex more without fussing about pregnancy, the natural occurrence of changes in body size and shape might make others feel less sexually attractive.
Medical Conditions, Medications, and Sexual Health
All conditions that influence your general well-being and health might also influence your sexual health. Cardiovascular illnesses like diabetes, high blood pressure, hormone issues, melancholy, or anxiety might make it difficult to engage in sexual activity.
The drugs used to address these disorders might also interfere with your sexual behavior. Medications for high blood pressure, for example, might impair your ability to feel aroused. Other drugs might make having an orgasm more challenging.
Consult a doctor if you suspect you have sexual adverse effects from medicine. It could be feasible to switch to another medicine with fewer sexual adverse effects or add an extra prescription.
Sexual Health and Surgery
Any surgery that affects your pelvic or central nervous system might have a big influence on your sexual response. The human body, on the other hand, is robust. Most people may become sexually receptive again if they have time to recover and some loving care.
Dealing with Differences in Desire
Libido differences are widespread in relationships of all ages. Couples might fall into a pattern in which one partner initiates touch while the other overlooks it. Try leading some engagements if you generally avoid sex. If you generally initiate sex, consider discussing your needs with your spouse.
If you’re concerned about causing pain to your partner’s feelings, use “I” phrases to describe your experience, like “I believe my body responds better when…” In exchange, attempt to comprehend your partner’s wants and wishes. You may develop solutions to meet both of your requirements if you work together.
Looking Forward, Not Back
Several couples want to understand how to improve sex life and reclaim their sexual health’s former levels. Find strategies to improve your body’s reaction to sexual encounters right now. Consider what is both fulfilling and mutually accepted.
Many publications are available on keeping a healthy sex life as you age. Furthermore, many couples believe that speaking with a professional is beneficial. Your doctor might be able to offer advice or refer you to a sex coach or expert.