Senior sex and health problems

Sexual well-being is closely tied to the rest of your health. How you're feeling, long-term health conditions, age-related changes or drugs can all affect you sexually.

Some surgeries and many drugs — such as blood pressure drugs, antihistamines, antidepressants and acid-blocking drugs — can affect sexual function.

Also, changes to your body — such as testosterone and sperm changes, nerve damage, bone and muscle loss, and low iron — can affect your sexual health.

And existing health conditions — such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer and prostate problems — can have an impact too.

But don't give up. You and your partner can try new ways to be intimate that work with your needs and abilities.

For example, if you're worried about having sex after a heart attack, talk with your healthcare professional about your concerns. If arthritis pain is a problem, try different sexual positions. Or try using heat to lessen joint pain before or after sexual activity.

Stay positive and focus on ways of being sexual and intimate that work for you and your partner.