Sexuality In Midlife And Beyond: Womens Sexual Health

Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School

Sexuality in Midlife and Beyond

Sex. The word can evoke a kaleidoscope of emotions. From love, excitement, and tenderness to longing, anxiety, and disappointment — the reactions are as varied as sexual experiences themselves. What's more, many people will encounter all these emotions and many others in the course of a sex life spanning several decades.

But what is sex, really? On one level, sex is just another hormone-driven bodily function designed to perpetuate the species. Of course, that narrow view grossly underestimates the complexity of the human sexual response. In addition to the biochemical forces at work, your experiences and expectations help shape your sexuality. Your understanding of yourself as a sexual being, your thoughts about what constitutes a satisfying sexual connection, and your relationship with your partner are key factors in your ability to develop and maintain a fulfilling sex life.

The physical transformations your body undergoes as you age also have a major influence on your sexuality. Declining hormone levels and changes in neurological and circulatory functioning may lead to sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction or vaginal pain. Half of men ages 50 and older report at least occasional erection problems. The figure rises to nearly 60% at age 60 and almost 70% at age 70. In addition, many women contend with issues of vaginal dryness and a lagging libido after they pass menopause (when the ovaries stop producing estrogen).

Such physical changes often mean that the intensity of youthful sex gives way to more subdued responses during middle and later life. But the emotional by-products of maturity — increased confidence, better communication skills, and lessened inhibitions — can help create a richer, more nuanced, and ultimately satisfying sexual experience. However, many people fail to realize the full potential of later-life sex. By understanding the crucial physical and emotional elements that underlie satisfying sex, you can better navigate problems if they arise. This report will take you through the stages of sexual response and explain how aging affects each. You'll also learn how chronic illnesses, common medications, and emotional issues can influence your sexual capabilities. Finally, you'll find a detailed discussion of various medical treatments, counseling, and self-help techniques to address the most common types of sexual problems.

Last updated:	January 23, 2007