Menopausal Mother

Some interesting information was dropped in my email this week, so I thought it might be important to share with any of my readers who might be dealing with sexual health issues after age 50. This info comes from the team at Health Test:  

Among many other aspects of life that change over time, as we age, one of the most discussed but less openly addressed is sexual health. After the age of 50, men and women often experience physical and hormonal changes that affect their sex lives. But the myth that a fulfilling sex life is only for the young needs to be challenged.

Here, the team at HealthTest explains that maintaining a satisfying sex life after 50 is possible, and it can be better than ever. The team breaks down the common concerns with ageing and sexual health, the biological changes that happen, and the steps to take to ensure your sex life remains healthy and enjoyable.

The Biological Changes and What They Mean for Sexual Health 

Different biological changes occur as men and women age, especially in their sexual health. One of the biggest changes for women is the menopause, which usually happens around the age of 51. This transition can bring several symptoms that can impact sexual health, such as reduced libido, changes in orgasm intensity, and vaginal dryness. As oestrogen levels drop from the menopause, the vaginal walls start to thin, causing discomfort during sex, and as levels of testosterone decrease, which influences sex drive, affecting libido and sexual arousal.

For men, these changes can occur gradually. First, testosterone levels start to decline at the age of 30 to 40, and by the time men get to their 50s, they may notice a drop in libido and reduced sexual stamina. These changes are completely natural, but they are not inevitable. The fact is that sexual health after 50 can remain strong with the right attention and care.

Mental Health and Sex: The Connection You Need to Understand 

Often very overlooked, but mental health plays an important role in sexual well-being as we age. Stress and anxiety levels can rise as we manage life, from children leaving home to concerns about physical looks or career changes, all of which impact sexual health. In your 50s, self-consciousness can affect your confidence in the bedroom. Men may find trouble with performance issues like erectile dysfunction, which women may feel discouraged by social pressures due to ageing and physical changes. These emotions from this can create a negative environment, stopping intimacy and desire.

It's important to have open conversations with your partner to navigate these challenges together. Talk openly about this concern - it will help find solutions that can reduce anxiety and build strong emotional intimacy. Sex isn’t just about physical pleasure; it’s about having an emotional bond and connection to keep a satisfying sex life as we age.

Hormones and How They Impact Your Sex Life

Hormones are the most important factor when it comes to sexual health, and the changes can impact libido and sexual performance as we age. For women, menopause comes with major hormonal shifts, leading to symptoms of fatigue, low energy, mood swings, and decreased sex drive. Men also experience different effects as testosterone levels drop, which can lead to difficulty with erections and decreased stamina.

However, there are successful treatments for men and women to manage these imbalances. For women, hormone replacement therapy known as HRT can help lift menopausal symptoms, such as low libido and vaginal dryness, while topical treatments and lubricants can offer additional relief. One study found that women on HRT were significantly more likely to report being sexually active than those not using HRT. Men who have symptoms of low testosterone may benefit from testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), although this should be undertaken with medical guidance to avoid side effects.

Lifestyle Changes That Can Boost Your Sex Life After 50

Exercise Regularly – Keeping active has a direct impact on sexual functions as it improves energy, blood circulation and reducing stress. Cardiovascular exercise such as swimming, walking and cycling, support heart health. Strength training will increase muscle tone and stamina, as physical activities will make it easier to maintain energy levels during sexual activity from the enhanced blood flow through the body.

Maintaining a Healthy Diet – Eat foods that maintain a balanced diet, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, all of which support your hormone health by providing essential nutrients for your hormone production. Healthy fats are key for oestrogen and testosterone, while antioxidant fruits and vegetables reduce inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids, like fish, can improve circulation, which is necessary for sexual performance. Also, watch your alcohol intake and try to reduce it, and quitting smoking can help blood flow, which is especially important for erectile function in men.

Prioritising Sleep -  Sleep is another essential for hormonal balance. Persistent insomnia can lead to low libido and decreased energy levels as the body struggles to regulate key hormones, such as cortisol levels, when sleep is disrupted. This then impacts stress, recovery, and energy. If insomnia carries on, it can lead to high levels of stress, low testosterone, and oestrogen. So, make sure you aim for 7-9 hours of good quality sleep each night to support hormones and overall health.

Mindfulness and Stress Reduction – Include meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises that can reduce stress and improve emotional intimacy. A great deep breathing exercise to follow is inhale through your nose for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth for 8 seconds. Repeat this cycle for 3 to 4 rounds. This will trigger the parasympathetic nervous system, promote tranquillity, and lower stress. Reducing anxiety around sex will help you reconnect with your loved one and intensify your sexual experience.

See Your Doctor Regularly – Have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, as they can help monitor your hormone levels and look at any underlying health issues. Early conversations can help you prevent potential issues down the line and stay on top of your sexual health.