Sex through all stages of life
Yes – your grandparents are probably still having sex! As are your parents. Let’s be honest, none of us would be here if that was not the case at some point. But the truth is, age does not have to stop anyone from enjoying having sex. Our sexual health is an important part of our lives regardless of age. But the natural aging process does impact our physiological make up, which then can impact some aspects of sexual activity.
How does aging impact sexual health?
The many physical changes that aging can bring may impact one’s sexual activity. This can include everything from age related illness, lower libidos, hormonal changes, muscle loss/weakness, to the many side effects of medications. But there are ways to navigate these changes to continue to have an active and healthy sex life into one’s later years.
Sexual Wellness
The reality is that as we age our bodies change. This is true of our reproductive organs and hormones as well.
These changes may bring about new obstacles that may include the following:
• Erectile dysfunction
• Decreased testosterone or estrogen levels
• Changes in the structure of the vagina
• Reduced production of vaginal lubrication
• Mental health concerns regarding body image related to aging
• Decreased libido due to hormonal changes
• Sleep issues that could impact sexual desire
Many of these concerns can be dealt with through speaking with your health practitioner for assistance. There are medications, creams and naturopathic options to help alleviate age related sexual health concerns.
Communication is Key
As with so many things in our lives, communication is the key! As we deal with the many changes aging brings into our lives, we need to maintain open discussions with our partners. This will allow both parties the opportunity to express their changing needs, if any, that are the result of age-related changes.
It may be as simple as more intimacy before any sexual activity, using lubricant, discussing any shame related to body changes or sexual activity so everyone can move forward within a trust-filled relationship, or simply acknowledging that things are different. But different does not have to mean bad. Different can be exciting and fun as you find new ways to express your sexual lives together.
An article by the Mayo Clinic states that many couples want to know how to get back to the sexual arousal and activity levels they experienced in their 20s, 30s and early 40s. Instead, they say to find ways to optimize your body’s response for sexual experiences now. By embracing every stage of one’s life, we are all able to have healthy sex lives regardless of our age.