Sex and aging

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Adults can remain sexually active regardless of their age. In fact, many older adults desire and enjoy an active sex life.

An ongoing interest in sex, as well as satisfaction with the frequency and quality of sexual activity, is positively associated with health in later life. Of course, there are some challenges when it comes to sex and aging. Physical changes, illness, disabilities and some medicines can make sex challenging or difficult to enjoy.

There are many resources available to older adults to help them achieve a satisfying sex life. Don't be afraid to bring up concerns with your doctor or other health care provider. And remember, whatever your age, take precautions to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections.

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Oct. 05, 2021

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  6. Cancer treatment for women: Possible sexual side effects
  7. Chemotherapy and sex: Is sexual activity OK during treatment?
  8. Choosing a birth control pill
  9. Chronic pain can interfere with sexuality
  10. Delaying your period with hormonal birth control
  11. Discolored semen: What does it mean?
  12. Erectile dysfunction and diabetes
  13. Extended-cycle birth control and spotting
  14. Female orgasm: No climax with vaginal penetration?
  15. Frequent sex: Does it protect against prostate cancer?
  16. Health issues for gay men
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  18. Healthy sperm: Improving your fertility
  19. Heart failure and sex: Is it safe?
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  21. Infographic: HPV Related Oral Cancers
  22. HPV vaccine
  23. Loss of sex drive in men: Natural with aging?
  24. Male masturbation: Does frequency affect male fertility?
  25. Mayo Clinic Minute: Signs and symptoms of syphilis
  26. Natural aphrodisiacs
  27. Pap smear: Do I need one if I'm a virgin?
  28. Penis fracture
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  31. PrEP to prevent HIV
  32. Prostatitis and sex
  33. Senior sex tips
  34. Sex after pregnancy: Set your own timeline
  35. Sex and COVID-19
  36. Sex during vaginal infection: Is it harmful?
  37. Sex education: Talking to toddlers and preschoolers about sex
  38. Sex education
  39. Talking to your teen about sex
  40. Sex and aging
  41. STD testing
  42. Teens and sex
  43. Testosterone level
  44. Testosterone therapy in women
  45. Testosterone therapy: Potential benefits and risks as you age
  46. Vagina
  47. Viagra for women?
  48. Women's sexual health
  49. Yeast infection in men: How can I tell if I have one?