Around age 50, the empty nest syndrome might make some women more interested in sex. But as you head toward menopause, estrogen levels drop, which might lower your libido and lead to vaginal dryness. Hot flashes, anxiety, weight gain, and sleep problems also can make you less in the mood.
Sex doesn’t, and shouldn’t, have an expiration date.
How to improve sex drive after 50
- Physical fitness
Exercise positively impacts your mood and lowers your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Find a sport, game, or activity you like. You’ll stay committed to exercising if you’re doing something you enjoy. Before you start, check with your doctor, especially if you have any of the risk factors for heart disease.
- Make small dietary changes.
Eating more soy products, flax seeds, fruits, and vegetables can make a big difference in the bedroom for older couples. It can be due to the natural phytoestrogens in those foods, which may help women raise their estrogen levels.
- Get some help
Up to 45% of postmenopausal women find sex painful due partly to increased vaginal dryness. Good-quality lubricant is a great way to combat this natural and common side-effect of aging.
- Get comfortable
Every healthy sexual relationship is based on trust and understanding. By offering judgment-free, open communication about sex with your partner, you can unlock a new world of experiences. Always work towards a compromise that tries to meet both of your needs.
Talk to your doctor about any issues with your sex drive, as they could be a sign of a medical condition or that medication negatively impacts your sex drive. If your physical response is the problem, your doctor may prescribe hormones that can increase your overall sex drive.
Sources
