The following problems increase the risk of having sexual problems as women and men age: 

• Lower natural levels of hormones. These include testosterone and estrogen, as well as other important hormones.
• Medical conditions that make sexual activity difficult, tiring, or painful.  These include diabetes, arthritis, urinary tract infections, incontinence, prolapse of the uterus, endometriosis, vaginal infections, cystitis (urethral infections), or heart or lung diseases.
• Circulatory (blood vessel) diseases, including atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. These diseases increase the risk of erectile dysfunction.
• Nerve diseases or conditions (such as spine problems, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or stroke).
• Mental health problems due to relationship problems, anxiety about sexuality, fear of disease,
• Worry about medical problems like heart disease, or feeling of being “undesirable” due to too much weight, or after surgery.
• Medicines that reduce sexual arousal, response, desire or ejaculation. These include some antidepressants, antipsychotics, antihistamines, medicines for blood pressure and stomach ulcers, heart medicines (beta blockers), diuretics (“water pills”), medications used for enlarged prostate (e.g., tamsulosin).
• Prostate surgery or radiation.
• Pain.
• Smoking and misuse of alcohol

Last Updated May 2023