Sexual health is an important part of overall wellness. That doesn’t change with age. In fact, research shows that an interest in sex remains strong among most people into midlife and beyond.
Having said that…for many people, the changes that occur during the aging process can result in sex being more difficult or less satisfying.
The good news?
There’s a lot you can do to manage these changes, enabling you to maintain a fulfilling sex life for your entire life.
Let’s look at why a healthy sex life is important regardless of age, and how hormone health impacts sexual health.
Why a Healthy Sex Life Matters
A fulfilling sex life isn’t just about physical pleasure.
Physical intimacy promotes emotional closeness, self-esteem, and even physical health. Regular sexual activity has been linked to:
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Lower stress levels
- Better sleep
- Elevated mood
- Stronger immune system function
For couples, intimacy strengthens emotional bonds and communication. For individuals, sexual health is deeply connected to confidence and an overall sense of well-being.
With that said, remaining healthy in this area can take some extra attention and effort as people age. This is an instance where information is power.
Hormonal Changes and Your Sex Life
As people age, hormone production declines. For most people, this process starts during the early 30s and becomes noticeable after 40. These changes can negatively impact sexual desire, performance, and satisfaction.
For women:
Perimenopause typically begins during the 40s, followed by menopause. During this time, levels of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone drop.
The result can be:
- Lower libido
- Vaginal dryness and atrophy (causing discomfort during sex)
- Less frequent or weaker orgasms
- Issues with mood
For Men:
The symptoms of andropause become noticeable during the 40s. Testosterone production slows, and estrogen levels can be too high or too low.
The result can be:
- Lower libido
- Difficulty getting and maintaining erections
- Less intense orgasms
- Issues with mood
Over time, any of the above can take a toll on sexual health and confidence.
Supporting Hormone Health to Support Sexual Health
The effects of hormone imbalances are real, but they’re also manageable. Here are some steps you can take to preserve your hormone health and your sex life:
- Keep Your Hormones Optimized
- Exercise Regularly
- Eat a Hormone-Friendly Diet
- Manage Stress
- Get Plenty of Rest
Work with an experienced provider to identify imbalances in vital hormones like testosterone and estrogen.
If needed, hormone therapy can safely and effectively restore hormones to optimal levels.
Physical activity supports blood flow, reduces stress, and improves mood—which all contribute to better sexual health.
Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit sugar and processed foods.
Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your hormones and your sex life. Try meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to ease stress.
Adequate sleep is supportive of sexual health. And the reverse is also true. People who have sex regularly tend to sleep better.
Healthy Hormones for Healthy Sex
With the right support and care, you don’t have to “just accept” the sexual changes that come with age. Balanced hormones and a vibrant sex life and can be yours for years to come.
At Renew Youth, we understand the connection between balanced hormones and a healthy sex life. Ready to get your sex life back? To learn more, call us at 800-859-7511 or use our easy contact form to schedule your complimentary 30-minute consultation.