Top 10 Tips for Better Sexual Health for Men 40 and Over
Published 12/02/2015
Updated: 12/02/2015
Everyone wants to be healthy and most people try to take good care of themselves. Sexual health is particularly important for men over 40. However, you might not be aware that there are many things you can do to prevent sexual health problems before they occur. Here are a few helpful tips to consider.
Eat a nutritious diet
You’ve probably heard that you are what you eat. That’s particularly true when it comes to your sexual health. Men who follow a nutritious diet are more likely to have better performance in the bedroom. Strive for a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.
Follow a regular exercise program
Regular exercise is an important part of sexual health. Inactive men often suffer from a variety of sexual health problems. Exercise can increase your confidence, improve your appearance, and boost your overall health. Always remember to talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
Quit Smoking
Studies have shown that smoking leads to sexual health problems in men. In fact, most men with erectile dysfunction also smoke. Smoking damages the blood vessels that send blood to the penis. Additionally, smoking has other negative sexual health consequences such as low sperm count and poor sperm quality.
Lower your stress levels
Stress can cause a variety of sexual health problems in men. It can make you feel anxious, exhausted, worried, or nervous. These feelings can negatively influence your sex life. Stress management techniques such as meditation and deep breathing can help lower your stress levels and improve your sexual health.
Do kegel exercises
Kegel exercises can strengthen the muscles that support the penis. These muscles can help you delay ejaculation and make your orgasms more pleasurable. To locate the correct muscles, try to stop the flow of urine during elimination. Throughout the day, squeeze these muscles and hold for a few moments before relaxing.
Use sexual lubrication
As men get older, they tend to lose penile sensitivity during sexual activity. Sexual lubricants can help you get more enjoyment during sex. Most sexual lubricants are water based. Sexual health experts typically recommend this type of lubricant because it washes away easily and doesn’t damage latex condoms.
Get a health checkup every year
Most men don’t like going to the doctor for routine examinations. However, if you’re interested in maintaining your sexual health, you should visit your doctor for a health checkup every year. If you are having sex with multiple partners, it’s also important to get screened for sexual transmitted diseases.
Reduce your alcohol consumption
Studies have shown that drinking alcohol can have a negative impact on your sexual health. Excessive alcohol consumption puts you at increased risk for sexual health conditions such as erectile dysfunction. Alcohol also reduces your sexual desire, which can make it more difficult to achieve orgasm.
Stay away from illegal drugs
Some men think that illegal drugs will enhance their sexual experiences. However, most illegal drugs have the opposite effect. To avoid sexual health problems such as erectile dysfunction, it’s important to stay away from illegal substances.
Steven Schlosser
Dr. Schlosser graduated from Lafayette College Phi Beta Kappa and attended Georgetown Medical School. He had 4 years of medical residency training at Tufts University in Boston in both Gynecology and Internal Medicine. He has had a spotless medical career for the past 40+ years and is Board Certified.Read more
