Normal Sexual Changes
Changes in Females
Most physical changes take place after menopause as a result of decreased estrogen levels. Taking hormone therapy can reduce these changes.
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It may take longer to become sexually excited
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The walls of the vagina get thinner and drier and they're more easily irritated during sexual intercourse
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Orgasms may be somewhat shorter than they used to be and the contractions felt during orgasm can be less intense
Changes in Males
Most physical changes in men are the result of decreasing testosterone levels. These changes affect energy, strength, muscle and fat mass, and bone density. They can also affect sexual function.
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Your sexual response starts to slow down after age 50, but your sex drive is more likely to be affected by your health and attitude about sex and intimacy than by your age
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It may take longer to get an erection. Also, more time needs to pass between erections.
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Erections will be less firm. But if you have good blood flow to your penis, you should be able to have erections that are firm enough for sexual intercourse throughout your life.
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As you age, you may be able to delay ejaculation for a longer time
Safer Sex
Sexually transmitted infections—also known as STIs or venereal diseases—are infections passed from person to person through sexual intercourse, genital contact, or contact with semen, vaginal fluids, or blood.
Do the following things to help prevent STIs:
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Use a water-based lubricant when you have sex: As you age, your immune system is not as strong, so it's harder to fight off disease. And after menopause the vaginal walls thin, and you may have some vaginal dryness. Using a lubricant may keep you from getting a sore or a tiny cut on your penis or inside your vagina, reducing your risk of getting STIs or HIV.
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Practice safer sex: Use condoms and lubricants until you are in a monogamous relationship and know your partner's sexual history and HIV status.
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Talk openly with your partner about STIs: Talk with your partner and take whatever precautions are needed to protect yourself before you engage in any form of sexual contact.
