STIMULATING MATURE SEXUALITY: ANDROPAUSE AND MENOPAUSE COINCIDE

BY DR. MICHAEL KRYCHMAN

As we age together in our couplehood our relationships, sexual intimacy and sexual self-esteem, or how we view ourselves as sexual beings changes. It is a well-known fact that frequency of sexual intercourse declines with increased relationship duration. We also often  see a shift of sexual activity - from intercourse to alternative forms of sexual pleasure such as oral and manual stimulation. Both the psychological changes, as well as the impact of medical conditions collide in our mature years, impacting sexual pleasure and satisfaction. 

Menopause typically occurs at age 51 for women and  is technically considered the cessation of menstrual cycles for 12 consecutive cycles. Plummeting levels of  estrogen and testosterone occur and a constellation of symptoms likely present. Symptoms can vary from  intense to mild hot flashes, forgetfulness and memory loss. It’s not uncommon for libido to dwindle and the sexual spark which once shined bright is a fading glimmer. Her sexual function has changed; the older woman may complain of vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, increased time to sexual arousal, and less intense orgasmic response.  

What  happens to men in midlife is often termed Andropause. Men may experience a variety of symptoms such as low energy, fatigue and lowered sexual interest. These are often attributed to lowered testosterone levels.  Men may notice a  change in erectile strength and duration. Erectile difficulty is not uncommon, and many report a change in penile hardness as compared to their youthful erections.

But we need not age sexually starved since there are many quick easy solutions to our potential sexual woes. Aging gracefully should include sexual vitality. Sexual health is intertwined with general health. 

Some Simple Solutions to go from Nojo to MOJO ...

Medical Assessment

Seeking medical, urological or gynecological care can discover an easily correctable solution to the sexual problems. Hormonal imbalance can be corrected with medications such as estrogen or testosterone. The addition of a phosphodiesterase inhibitor is often the common solution for men with erectile difficulties. For women, non-hormonal vaginal moisturizers and lubricants may be the frontline treatment for vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. Try JO® Renew Vaginal Moisturizer, which is specifically designed for women. The Blend of moisturizers include bisabolol, aloe vera, and cucumber fruit to provide a gentle daily use formula to relieve vaginal dryness.

Some may also desire minimally applied absorbed vaginal estrogen to ease the discomfort of vaginal dryness. Replacing estrogen and testosterone to also  help restore sexual interest and desire.

Communicate

Now more than ever it is important to talk with your partner about  your sexual needs, wants and desires. Frank honest and open  conversations with your partner are important. Plan your sexual voyage together as you age into your future golden years. 

Lube it Up

While many prefer water-based lubricant, silicone-based  lubricants, like Premium Classic Silicone, may be well suited for older couples. Silicone lube  provides long lasting lubricity and may enhance sexual pleasure. Men take longer to achieve orgasm and may have harder and firmer erections with medications, so the slickness of silicone is an important addition.  Women on the other hand may take longer to achieve adequate arousal so a long-lasting choice provides comfort when the sexual interlude is prolonged. 

Stimulate

Since it may take longer for a female to achieve adequate arousal, many women find the addition of a topical stimulant to the clitoral area the simplest solution to reclaiming that sexual spark of orgasmic bliss. Some enjoy spicing their sexual experience with flavored lubes. Some men may worry about erectile loss so they may choose erectile prolonging products to help maintain an erection for a longer time. 

Visit the System JO Website for some product suggestions.

Stay Calm and Age 

The zoom fatigue, pandemic claustrophobia and the burden of work, finance, and all  adult responsibilities can often be overwhelming and can squelch  anyone’s sexual appetite. Fatigue, and  stress can  even  impact your hormones in the long run. Yoga, mindfulness or calming applications on your electronic device can help you get recentered and may boost your sexual energy. Try aromatherapy candles, soothing music or even an exercise regime to destress. 

We are getting older, and with age comes wisdom, experience and increased connectedness with our partners. We may even become happier as we journey towards the later years. Sexual intimacy is a privilege  of the youth, but also a responsibility for those who are aging. Sexual health and general health are intertwined, and intimacy certainly will  deepen with time.

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