Sex Drive Over 50

By Dr. Neli Stoyanova

Men over 50 often experience decreased sex drive. Is it only because of testosterone decline as they are heading toward andopause (the equivalent of female menopause) or are there other factors involved?

Boomer men (born between 1946-64) need to be aware that there are many factors that can come into consideration when it comes to decreased libido.

What are the most common reasons?

I. Physical causes:

1. Medications

Commonly used medications for blood pressure, antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs are the most frequent causes of decreased libido. Even some heartburn relievers can do harm.

Be careful when you take any medication including ones over the counter and don’t hesitate to ask your doctor about potential side effects. You may need to change the drug or the dose.

2. Alcohol

High doses alcohol or chronic use of it can have a negative effect on your sex desire.

3. Tobacco smoking and/or drug abuse

Affect peripheral blood vessels that supply the genitals with blood.

Diabetes, heart, kidney or liver failure or blood vessels conditions lead to peripheral arterial vasoconstriction (spasm) of the vessels that bring blood.

Remember:

Anything that affects the blood flow in the genital area is a potential suppressor of your sex drive.

II. Psychological causes:

1. Acute and/or chronic stress

Job-related or retirement related stress, marital or relationship-related stress, financial stress or performance anxiety can affect your sex drive in a negative way.

2. Sleep

Sleep deprivation may be a leading cause of lack of sexual desire. The medical condition most commonly associated with problems with sleep and sex is sleep apnea. People with sleep apnea wake up many times during the night, which can cause severe daytime sleepiness.

What is more important for their sex drive is the fact that men with sleep apnea tend to have lower levels of testosterone, which can lower libido.

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