Age-Related Changes in Male Sexual Function

As men age, it is natural for changes in the male sexual function to occur. Most of these changes occur gradually. Ageing men will notice changes in their bodies, libido, and sexual performance. These changes can be attributed to hormonal issues, physical health, mental health, and medical conditions and treatments. Let’s talk about these age-related changes and how they affect men’s sexual health.   

Decreasing testosterone levels 

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It influences sexual desire, muscle mass, and energy. Among teenage boys, testosterone is responsible for bodily changes during puberty, like the deepening of the voice, appearance of facial and pubic hair, growth of the penis, and increase in sexual desire. Testosterone levels start to decline by the time a man reaches the age of 30. By the time a man reaches his 50s, he will experience a noticeable decline in sexual desire. This can make it more challenging to achieve and maintain erections. 

Decline in sexual desire 

Although we’ve already mentioned that a decline in testosterone levels can cause reduced sexual desire, it is just one of several factors. Another factor is sleep. As men age, the quality sleep they get becomes shorter. This means that their bodies have less time to rest and recuperate. As a result, they have less energy to spend on sexual activities. Lack of sleep can also contribute to stress, which can affect one’s sexual performance.   

Aside from lack of sleep, some chronic illnesses can cause a decline in sexual desire. Chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis can negatively affect one’s libido. These illnesses can also affect a man’s sexual performance.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) 

Erectile issues become more common as men age. As the body ages, some bodily functions begin to slow down. An example is the decrease in the blood flowing to the penis. Blood flow is crucial in attaining and maintaining erections. This decrease in blood flow can cause a decrease in the firmness of erections. Erections can also be shorter than usual. Older men will also notice longer refractory periods. This means that it will take longer for them to achieve an erection after ejaculating. 

Other medical conditions associated with ageing can cause a reduced blood flow to the penis. An example is arteriosclerosis or clogging of the arteries. Arteriosclerosis is very common. According to an article published by Australia’s Heart Research Institute, people over the age of 40, even those in good health, have a 50% chance of developing serious arteriosclerosis.    

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often related to underlying health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, and other conditions. Since ED can be a forewarning symptom of a progressive disease, it’s essential to consult a health professional when you experience it. Contact Men’s Health Clinic (MHC) if you’re experiencing persistent erectile dysfunction (ED) that disrupts your day-to-day life and overall well-being. 

Sperm changes 

Ageing can negatively affect the amount and quality of sperm that a man produces. According to an article published by the National Institutes of Health, after the age of 45, the volume of semen that a man produces starts to decline. Other aspects of a man’s sperm also decline, including sperm motility and morphology. This means that sperm loses the ability to move towards an egg for fertilization. These changes decrease the chances of an older man conceiving children. According to an article published by The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, men over the age of 40 are 30% less likely to conceive than men under the age of 30. 

What can you do to manage age-related changes in male sexual function? 

Although there is no way to stop ageing, there are ways to manage age-related changes in male sexual function. Here are some of the things you can do: 

• Exercise – Ensuring that you maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly can help keep your body in top condition. Exercise can also help improve your stamina and cardiovascular health to support sexual health. 
• Balanced diet – Watch what you eat. Eating a heart-healthy diet can help improve circulation throughout the body, including the penile area. Maintaining healthy blood circulation and avoiding heart issues can help ensure healthy erectile function. 
• Medical help – Regular medical check-ups are crucial for managing chronic illnesses that negatively affect male sexual health. There are also medical treatments for managing male sexual health issues, like premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction. Book a FREE consultation with MHC today to start your bespoke treatment. 
• Communication – Open communication with your partner is important in addressing tensions arising from male sexual health issues. Tell your partner about the changes you are experiencing so you can explore ways of maintaining intimacy amidst these health challenges. 

Conclusion 

Ageing is a natural phenomenon. There is no way to stop it. There is also no way of stopping the changes in male sexual function that come with ageing. Sexual desire and sperm production decline as a man ages. Sexual dysfunctions, like premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction, also become more common. Although there is no way to stop these changes, there are ways to manage these changes effectively. With proper diet, regular exercise, open communication, and medical help, you can defy age-related changes in male sexual function and keep your sexual health in top condition.  

Suffering from erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation? Schedule an appointment with one of our specialists at MHC. We offer consultations through our telehealth services in the comfort of your own home.