As we blow out the candles on another year, we can’t help but take note of the things that have changed over time. And let’s face it, one of the lesser discussed aspects of aging is how getting older impacts our sex lives.
As if the cellulite and grey hair wasn’t enough, narrowing of the vagina and decreased lubrication can occur. And when coupled with menopause, all these things may make sexual desire feel less sustainable. Further, illnesses, medications, aches and pains also take their toll, affecting our sexual desire and intimacy with our partners and ourselves.
Let’s dig into some of the research about sex and aging.
Research Findings About Sex & Aging: Well ladies, if you are interested in keeping those sexy fires burning, the news could be better. In a 2012 study, while vaginal intercourse was reported by 51% of women aged 50-59, for those over 70 it had decreased to only 22% (2).
On the positive front, we’re still ready for a little self-love: Almost half (47%) of women in the 50+ age group reported masturbating in the past year (3).
And a 2012 study showed 51% of women aged 50-59 were reporting vaginal intercourse. So far so good. But for those over 70 it had decreased to only 22% (2). No word on the actual opportunity those 70+ women had for that vaginal intercourse…
Not so Great: Among sexually active women aged 75-85 years old, 50% lacked interest in sex, 44% had vaginal lubrication issues and 12% found sex painful (1).
Blame it on estrogen! It is estimated that approximately 60% of postmenopausal women experience vaginal dryness and atrophy due to the gradual decline of estrogen in the body (2).
Sexually Active Life Expectancy: In 2010, two researchers calculated women’s “sexually active life expectancy” – defined as the average number of years remaining for a woman to spend as sexually active. At age 55 sexually active life expectancy for women was estimated to be 10.6 more years. Women with excellent or good health only gained 3-6 additional years (3).
Stress! Not surprisingly, increased anxiety is associated with lack of sexual interest in women, lack of pleasure from sex and difficulty orgasming (2).
Sex in the Next Chapter: So, while aging doesn’t preclude sexual activity, it does add some complications. What is important is staying connected to your body and your relationships. Look for ways to enhance your physical self – including potentially the Cliovana™ procedure. CliovanaTM is a 100% non-invasive way to experience improved orgasms. By focusing on the clitoral region at a cellular level, CliovanaTM could be an option for you to improve your sex life as you age.
REFERENCES
Sexual Health. (2023) HealthinAging.org: https://www.healthinaging.org/
DeLamaterm J. (2012) Sexual Expression in Later Life: A Review and Synthesis. Journal of Sex Research. doi: 10.1080/00224499.2011.603168
Lindau, S.T. & Gacrilova, N. (2010) Sex, Health and Years of Sexually Active Life Gained Due to Good Health: Evidence From Two US Population Based Cross Sectional Surveys of Aging. British Medical Journal. doi: 10.1136/bmj.c810
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