Sexual Feelings And Sex Life After 50
No matter how old you are, there is always a desire for intimacy. But, as we age we are likely to find that our desires for and feelings about sex, also change. Believe it or not, although your sexual feelings may change over time, your sex life after 50 can continue to fulfilling.
Menopause – and even peri-menopause, can result in a decreased libido. As estrogen levels decrease, vaginal dryness may result. Slower sexual arousal is also associated with menopause. And according to information found at the Mayo Clinic website, natural changes in our body shapes and sizes can cause us to fell less desirable sexually.
Other issues that can come into play as we age are a multitude of medical conditions and even the medications we take to help control those problems. Additionally, any surgery can have at least a temporary impact on the sexual response.
It is not uncommon for couples to deal with differences in libidos. One partner seems to always be the one that initiates contact and perhaps, the other one avoids it. In such situations it is best to work at a way that both partners can be accommodated. Each should openly discuss what it takes to make them feel fulfilled and each should be willing to compromise.
According to results from a 2008 study conducted by Harris Interactive and funded by Duramed Pharmaceuticals, a large percentage of women are surprised by the sexual symptoms they experience related to menopause. The reality is, in comparison to attention to and information about erectile dysfunction, far less attention and information is openly discussed about the sexual changes women deal with as they age.
With the popularity of Viagra and other related medications that help to restore vitality to aging men, are women at an even greater disadvantage? After all, when you consider the fact that couples are both aging – what happens when one partner is suddenly ready, willing and able, and the other is not? Should women simply comply?
The truth is, according to information supplied in an article at Huffingtonpost, in order for most post-menopausal women to enjoy genital stimulation and or penetrative sex, adequate lubrication is a must. And although lubricants can reduce friction and cool the skin, they do not provide true healing properties. However, there are prescription products that can help. There are also some over the counter products available.
One of the most important things that can be done to help women with these dilemmas is a willingness to discuss the problems and complications they face as they age. Asking your OB-GYN doctor questions can be a great way to get real solutions. Talk with other women about the changes you are dealing with. Share your thoughts, fears, and your solutions. Sex after 50 may be different than it was in your 20's, 30's, and 40's, but that doesn't mean you won't have sex at all or that you won't find it fulfilling.
Resources:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sexual-health/HA00035
http://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/news/20080925/sex-and-aging-women-in-for-a-surprise
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/evelyn-resh/sex-over-50-_b_819660.html
