This is why women are having less sex as they get older

sex life

A new study has revealed why women are having less sex and derive less pleasure from it as they age.

These findings are based on a study of 4,418 women with an average age of 64, who were asked questions about their current sex life.

Out of the respondents, 65.3 per cent revealed they had a romantic partner, but only 22.5 per cent said they were sexually active.

Over time, sexually active women reported that they were having sex less, and finding it more uncomfortable. A previous study had revealed that nearly three-quarters of women are uncomfortable during sex, regardless of age.

Overwhelming family responsibilities were cited as a big reason for not engaging in sex, as they felt they had too much to worry about and other people to focus on. Other reasons included sexual dysfunction, widowhood, or a partner’s illness.

sex life

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Many women also said that the logistics of organising sex was a problem, as well as domestic problems in their relationships were also factors.

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Some cited the ways ageing affects their physical appearance and their self-confidence causing a low libido, as they didn’t feel as attractive as they used to.

Speaking about the study, researchers said: ‘A small minority (3%) reported optimistic and positive sexual experiences’

‘[1 in 8] women in [the] study experienced sexual problems, but only 2% referred to [hormone therapy].

‘Open communication about sexuality, including desires, needs, and dysfunctions, is important and will reduce the threshold for women to discuss sexual function. Additional sexual education for [healthcare practitioners] is required to facilitate this process.’

They also added: ‘Sexual difficulties are often underreported, under recognized, and undertreated.’

Lucy Buglass
Digital Writer

Lucy Buglass is a Digital Writer for What's on TV, Goodto.com, and Woman&Home. After finishing her degree in Film Studies at Oxford Brookes University she moved to London to begin her career. She's passionate about entertainment and spends most of her free time watching Netflix series, BBC dramas, or going to the cinema to catch the latest film releases.