Most physical changes are due to the natural aging process, the skin tends to lose some of it's sensitivity and movement may become more restricted. Both men and women will also experience hormonal changes. Men's testosterone levels gradually reduce and women will go through the menopause. Other physical changes are the result of illness or may be a side effect of medication. Common illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease and blood pressure problems directly affect sexual functioning, while other conditions such as arthritis have more of an indirect affect.
Sexual changes in women
• Lowered sexual desire - lower levels of oestrogen and testosterone can reduce sexual desire though it is more likely to be a side effect of general menopausal symptoms.
• Painful intercourse - the walls of the vagina become thinner and less lubrication is produced. It can also take longer to get aroused as you get older.
• Delayed orgasm - some women find that it takes them longer to orgasm than it used to and the sensation is not quite so strong.
Sexual changes in men
• Reduced desire - many men say that their desire for sex is less frequent and less urgent than in their twenties.
• Slower to arouse - most older men find they need direct penile stimulation in order to get aroused and get an erection.
• Less firm erections - the sensation of erection is likely to be less hard than it was, though it will still be sufficient for penetration.
• Slower ejaculation - the urgency to ejaculate tends to reduce significantly so a mature lover can last longer. Ejaculation may also feel less powerful.
Sex often gets better as couples age. In many ways, men and women are more equally matched. Most men will have lost their earlier physical urgency for satisfaction and many women feel more confident and comfortable with their sexuality. What's more, you're both likely to know far more about your own and each other's bodies.
Answered by
K. Rajib G.
at
1:13 PM on November 13, 2008
