Changes in the body and hormones after the age of 50 can affect sexual activity. However, there are several ways to help them continue enjoying sex.
There are some misconceptions about sex after age 50. Some people associate this phase with the end of sex life, not only because hormone fluctuations can reduce libido, but also because on a physical level, the body changes and some conditions begin to show.
Now, does this hinder you from enjoying a satisfying sex life? Although intimate relationships can indeed be affected by some issues, both men and women can continue to have enjoyable sexual relationships. Breaking taboos, going to see a doctor, and making plans are key.
7 Issues That Affect Sexual Life
Contrary to what many people think, sex has no expiration date. There is no specific age at which sex ends, and aging does not stop you from being active in bed.
In fact, its practice is still as beneficial to physical and mental health as it was when you were younger.
Of course, now we have to face some challenges brought about by physical and health changes. Starting at the age of 50, you may start to have some sexual problems, which fortunately can be solved with self-care and the help of a doctor.
What exactly are the problems? Let’s find out!
1. Taboos and Negative Beliefs
Undoubtedly, one of the biggest issues affecting sexuality after the age of 50 is the taboo and erroneous beliefs surrounding this topic. Sexual behavior in this age group carries a certain level of shame in society.
Some people believe that this is inappropriate or unpleasant due to the physical and mental changes at this stage.
The common misconceptions are as follows:
- Loss of sexual desire.
- The quality of sex is poor.
- Sex is painful and unsatisfactory.
- Sexual activity carries risks to health.
- As people age, they become less attractive.
- Losing the ability to engage in sexual activity.
Breaking down these misconceptions is key to continuing to enjoy sex in old age. While there is no denying that the pace has slowed compared to younger generations, it is still possible to enjoy intimacy, both alone and as a couple.
While the topic remains taboo for many, there is data that suggests that people are still interested in pursuing an active sex life at these ages.
A report from the University of Michigan and the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) shows that 91% of men and 86% of women over the age of 50 feel that they are still in an intimate relationship.
2. Vaginal Dryness
For women, after the age of 50, with the onset of menopause, estrogen levels will decrease. Therefore, the natural lubrication ability of the vagina will decrease and it is prone to dryness. This may cause pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
Anyway, this is not the end of sexual activity. There are several possible solutions, so this will not hinder enjoyment; The most important thing is to use intimate lubricants, which can be water-based or oil-based.
Similarly, foreplay, oral sex, and the use of sex toys can also be helpful. The more stimulation there is, the more excitement and happiness there will be.
3. Vaginal Atrophy
As vaginal lubrication decreases, vaginas in this age group tend to lose elasticity and the ability to expand due to estrogen fluctuations.
A common problem is vaginal atrophy, which manifests as dryness, burning sensations, recurrent urinary tract infections, and discomfort during sexual intercourse.
Intimate lubricants are a treatment for this condition; however, doctors may recommend moisturizers, topical estrogen, and other medications to help with management.
4. Loss of Libido
In addition to the decrease in sex hormone levels, there are other factors that can affect the decline in sexual desire after the age of 50.
Stress, side effects of certain medications, certain illnesses, and mental health issues may lead to decreased libido in both women and men.
Feeling ashamed of physical changes and worrying about poor performance often hinders many adults from enjoying sexual activity.
Of course, based on the reasons, there are several possible solutions:
- Strengthen communication between spouses.
- Approach this stage of change with a positive mindset.
- Inquire about menopausal hormone therapy.
- Go see a doctor, gynecologist, and urologist as appropriate.
- Understand and break down misconceptions about sex at this age.
- Use medication and supplements to increase sexual desire (under professional supervision).
- Improve lifestyle, including diet, exercise, and relaxation techniques.
5. Erection and Ejaculation Problems
For men, sex life after age 50 may be affected by erection and ejaculation problems. As you age, it becomes more difficult to get and maintain an erection at the same level as other age groups.
The presence of conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and heart failure can interfere with blood circulation in the corpora cavernosa, leading to erectile dysfunction or other problems.
Typically, spontaneous erections decrease and increased stimulation is required to achieve spontaneous erections. These may not be as firm as they used to be. In addition, ejaculation volume and intensity also decrease.
To make this worse, men find it more difficult to accept their declining masculinity. As a result, they take longer to seek professional help.
However, there are also many possible treatment options:
- Lifestyle changes.
- Oral medications. The best known is Viagra (sildenafil).
- Testosterone replacement therapy.
- Penis pumps, surgery and implants.
- Psychological therapy.
6. The Presence of Disease
The risk of chronic diseases increases with age. Conversely, it is also closely related to sexual issues after the age of 50.
For women, hormonal changes caused by menopause increase the risk of heart and vascular disease, overweight and diabetes. All of these situations can have an impact on sexual life as they can lower sexual ability and desire.
For men, diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease will increase the risk of erectile dysfunction. Usually, smoking, lung disease, and obesity can also lower sexual quality.
The other diseases that restrict sexual activity between males and females in these age groups are as follows:
- Arthritis and chronic pain.
- Arterial hypertension.
- Anxiety and depression.
- Cancer.
It should be pointed out that the impact of these diseases on sexual quality varies depending on their severity.
Anyway, medical support can help reduce these impacts. Through appropriate methods and advice, people can continue to have intimate lives.
7. Difficulty Achieving Orgasm
There are multiple factors that make it difficult to reach orgasm after the age of 50. The psychological changes that occur during menopause can usually explain this problem in women. Many people even experience sexual dysfunction.
The common anxiety, depression, irritability, inferiority complex, and insomnia during these stages make achieving orgasm even more difficult. Moreover, even if implemented, it is usually not as long-lasting and strong for both men and women.
But in fact, they are not so strong, which does not mean they have disappeared, nor does it mean that meeting them is no longer pleasant.
Working with therapists to address psychological issues can be helpful in this regard. We also need to strengthen communication with our partners, enhance self-care, and break down restrictive beliefs about sex.
Tips for Better Sex
Sex is part of overall well-being for all people at all stages of life. Let’s look at some suggestions you can apply to keep it pleasurable and rewarding.
1. Maintain Communication With Your Partner
Like any other age group, communication between couples remains the key to enjoying sex after the age of 50.
Perhaps due to taboos, this may be a bit difficult; However, it is necessary for you to publicly express your fears, needs, and desires so that both parties can take action.
2. Go To The Doctor
Doctors and specialists such as gynecologists or urologists can help detect and treat abnormalities and diseases that often affect the quality of sex when you reach this age. Keeping up with regular checkups is key. Professionals can also guide safe sex practices to increase pleasure for couples.
3. Adjust The Routine
Indeed, as one grows older, the level of energy required for sexual activity differs from when they were younger. If this affects your sex life, please try changing your sex schedule. For example, you can try it after getting enough rest in the morning.
Please remember that both you and your partner may need more time to be awakened. Leave enough space for preparation work and don’t be afraid to use lubricants or toys.
4. Changing Sexual Attitudes At This Age
It’s not unpleasant, it’s not inappropriate, and for most people it doesn’t usually represent a risk (unless indicated by a doctor). Letting go of these beliefs is essential to continuing to have a satisfying sex life. You don’t have to limit yourself in any way!
- Do it in places other than the bedroom.
- Try new sexual positions.
- Enjoy massage and foreplay.
- Plan a romantic setting.
- Perform oral sex.
5. Take Care of Your Lifestyle
The changes in the body and the increased risk of diseases make self-care more important for these age groups. Of course, this can also affect the quality of sex.
Therefore, please make sure to put the following tips into practice:
- Maintain a healthy and balanced diet.
- Regularly engage in sports activities.
- Implement relaxation techniques.
- Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking.
6. Get Psychotherapy
A psychologist or sex therapist can give you additional tools to break down sexual beliefs at this age. In addition, they can help you build a better relationship with your partner.
7. Stay Comfortable
If you suffer from joint disease, mobility issues, or chronic pain, please find ways to make yourself more comfortable. Organize the space for intimate contact and minimize interference. You may need to use some support pillows or try various postures.
What Should You Remember?
50 years old does not prevent you from continuing to enjoy sexual life. Despite changes in lifestyle habits, appearance, and health conditions, individuals and couples can still continue to enjoy enjoyable experiences.
Anyway, please remember that a healthy lifestyle, physical examinations, and communication with couples are crucial for taking care of sexual health.
In addition, age does not exempt you from the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs);
If you have multiple sexual partners or something that worries you, don’t forget to use condoms to protect yourself.