Mismatched Sex Drives Can Affect Your Sex Life, Especially Men Over 50

Keith G. Tolman
Written by: Keith G. Tolman
Published 06/30/2015
Updated: 06/30/2015

As you get older, erection problems and lack of sexual desire can limit your sex life. It’s considered a normal part of the aging process. The good news is that you can take steps to address sexual health issues. Here are some tips you can use to enjoy an active sex life in your 50s and beyond.

Talk to your doctor about prescription medications
Erectile dysfunction medications like Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis are effective treatments for erectile dysfunction. Your primary care physician can prescribe these medications. If you think you might have erectile dysfunction, it’s important to talk to your doctor. While it’s a sensitive issue, there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. It’s a very common sexual health problem among men.

Make healthy lifestyle choices
High cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, and other health conditions can lead to erectile dysfunction. That’s why it’s important to make healthy lifestyle choices. Follow a balanced diet, adopt a regular exercise program, limit alcohol consumption, and avoid smoking to maintain good health. In some cases, lifestyle changes can reduce or eliminate erectile dysfunction symptoms.

Control chronic health conditions
Erectile dysfunction can be a symptom of a serious health disorder such as heart disease. If you have erectile dysfunction, it’s important to carefully monitor chronic health conditions such as high cholesterol, hypertension, and diabetes. Your doctor can help you prevent, treat, and manage your health conditions and ensure that your cardiovascular system is healthy enough for sexual activity.

Ask your doctor to check your testosterone levels
Some men with erectile dysfunction also have low testosterone. If you suffer from lack of sexual desire, ask your doctor to check your hormone levels. Low testosterone can have a negative impact on your libido. Fortunately, there are effective treatments for low testosterone that can restore your sex drive. Your doctor can investigate the issue and help you find the best treatment.

Consider professional counseling
Erectile dysfunction and low libido can lead to emotional and relationship problems. If that’s the case, you may want to consider professional counseling. There could be a psychological reason for your erection problems. A reputable therapist can help you discover underlying issues and find effective solutions.

Learn to deal with mismatched sex drives
Mismatched sex drives is a common problem among couples. It’s important to have an open discussion with your partner about issues related to sexual desire. Talk about what turns you on and what doesn’t. Share your sexual fantasies and ask your partner to do the same. By discussing these topics, you may be able to find a mutually satisfying compromise that works for both of you.

Make time for sex
As you get older, the stress of daily life can have a negative impact on your sex life. You probably have an entire list of responsibilities to attend to. That’s why it’s important for couples to set aside time for intimacy. Couples that need more romance can schedule a date night or plan a romantic weekend getaway.

Keith G. Tolman

Keith G. Tolman

Dr. Tolman is Professor of Medicine and Pharmacology at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. He received his medical degree from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada followed by a residency at Baylor Medical University in Houston and GI Fellowship at the University of Utah.
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Article by Keith G. Tolman

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