Sex and Aging
There are many different ways of being sexual, and as you age, you can re-examine and possibly redefine what sexuality means to you. For example, some men and women continue to enjoy partner sex or masturbation, while others choose celibacy or non-genital forms of expressing intimacy, such as massage, hugging or holding hands.
What changes are associated with aging and sexuality for women?
In the years before menopause, a woman’s hormonal balance changes leading to changes in her menstrual pattern and decreased fertility. A woman who has gone through menopause will have lower levels of estrogen in her system, so she may experience
- genital changes, such as thinning of the walls of the vagina and the lips of the vulva
These genital changes can cause intercourse to be painful, but using a lubricant or estrogen cream may help.
What about sexual pleasure?
The quality of a woman's sexual life has more to do with her general life situation than on her age. Relationship issues, general physical and mental health and body image all affect someone’s sense of well-being. If a woman has had a positive attitude towards sex throughout her life and doesn't have many major medical, family or relationship concerns, then the physical changes that come with aging aren't likely to affect her sexual enjoyment.What changes are associated with aging and sexuality for men?
As men age, they may find that it takes longer and they need more stimulation to get an erection. It may take longer for older men to ejaculate, and once they've ejaculated it will be longer before they can have another erection. Erectile dysfunction, when a man can’t get or keep an erection hard enough to have sex, is a common problem. Fear of failure can lead to problems getting and keeping an erection, so it's important for men to be aware of the changes that can happen as part of the normal aging process.
Some health conditions can cause erectile difficulty or reduce sexual desire, including diabetes, Parkinson's disease, stroke and heart disease. Medications that are used to treat high blood pressure, diabetes, depression and mental illness can also cause erectile problems or loss of desire.
Do older adults need to be concerned about sexuality transmitted infections and HIV?
Yes. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV don’t just affect young people. People of all ages and sexual orientations should use condoms to prevent the transmission of STIs and HIV. It's important to talk openly with health care providers about sexual behaviour at any age.Safer sex
Having sex can be a very exciting and pleasurable experience. It is important to think about STI protection, what kind of sexual activities you are comfortable or uncomfortable engaging in and how far you want to go with a sexual partner. Safer sex reduces the risk of unplanned pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and coercion or violence.